Monster Compedium for the maligned, forgotten & misunderstood monsters

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 03:59 PM

This thread gets resurrected once in a while, when i add an entry for a creature. the purpose of this thread is to take often disregarded monsters- monsters who didn't catch the imagination, were too simple, too complex, lacked a coherent consistency, or weren't "game worthy" for whatever reason, (long sentence, taking a breath) and give them a makeover in a way that will enliven the interest in them, give them a boost at the gaming table, and make them viable options for DMs everywhere. this is not Homebrew! the focus is on fluff, (though some crunch is in here as well) functions in the world, and interactions. try it- you might like it.

the first post gives the explanation and the contents, the second gives a basic format to whomever would like to contribute themselves, and the rest are the monster entries.

the rest of this post (other than the contents) is mostly ramblings. if you're interested in the monsters however (as well you should be) than go, explore, read and hopefully like what others and me have written. just don't forget to write your comments, ideas, and words of encouragement (highly important, and appreciable!) later on...

(all updates to content and otherwise will detailed here, on this first post)

Contents:
0) opening statements, updates and content, and the basic format.

1) the Stirge: the pincher, the stinger, your favorite blood drinker! here

2) the Stone Giant: it's all about the community. (Thunder Clap variant included) part 1, part 2

3) the Barghest: by the Wolf, the Goblin and the unholy spirit! (includes a most unique PrC...) part 1, part 2

4) the Gargoyle: more than a roof top decoration (multiple variants included) part 1, part 2

5) The Serpent Lords: "how do you like your magic poison, you son of a dragon?" (remake of Nagas and Couatl. several variants included) part 1, part 2

6) the Yeth Hound: by Prometheus here

7) the Wight: by batsofchaos here

8) the Troglodyte: "more than a case of bad odor" here

9) the Hydra: "because 12 heads are better than one!" part 1, part 2

10) the Aranea: "oh what a tangled web we weave" part 1, part 2

11) Hags: "more than just a pretty face" part 1, part 2

12) Gibbering Mouther: the flesh that slides, the teeth that gnash, the horror behind the jabber... the horror. part 1, part 2

updates:
- added the gibbering mouther
- if you have any ideas, but don't have the time or inclination to write an entry, tell me about your ideas, and i'll try to expand on it, and bring it to life.

the purposes of this thread: (read only if interested)
1) to spark a new interests in the monsters presented here, give them a new fighting chance at your gaming group.
2) to promote creativity and ingenuity concerning the use of monsters. moving them from the mere "encounter" level, to the adventure, plot, and campaign levels.
3) to unite all these kind of threads under one roof, so that DMs may have the full (so far limited) range of these monsters to draw inspiration from, instead of just a single monster on a rapidly vanishing thread).

the monster entries are suggestions, not hard rules. it's the way we perceive them, and imagine might be the most fun to play. the entries encompass many areas, and are usually quite encompassing (unlike the monster entries in the MM), though most of this refer to Fluff, rather than Crunch (though there are also game mechanics suggestions). i do believe that this Compendium will hold true even for 4th Ed since the entries here relate to far more "universal" things than battle drills and rules.

for those of you who wish to contribute, please do (writing this entries his time consuming for me alone). the second post includes a sample format for you to use, but as with everything here, it is only a suggestion. feel free to work your own magic.

Kol.

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:01 PM

this post is for those of you who would like to contribute. if you're just interested in the monsters, move to the next posts.

the following format is very loose, and have served me well, but it is but a recommendation. i urge you to do what best fits your creative style, and your monster

Spoiler

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:03 PM

The Stirge: the pincher, the stinger, your favorite blood drinker!

my first test subject, with which i started this whole thing. i always loved stirges. the stirge is also a fine example on how a fairly simple monster could be made far more playable and interesting, if you put some thought into it.

Stirge MMI

Spoiler

and now presenting to you, the new and improved stirge:

Perception and Concept

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Place and Interactions

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- Place in the world: these are the bottom feeders, feeding on those who are two weak to fight, who are trapped (many an animal sunken in a mud pit saw the fluttering of stirge wings on nearby branches), or slayed beasts (one of the best ways to get them off your back). think of them as sort of flying hyenas... they stay mostly in natural areas, but small flocks and nests are known to travel near rural settlements, and kill livestock. a special menace occurs every 4 years, when BloodLustSwarms emerge (more on that later).

- interactions: stirges tend to focus and specialize on a certain kind of prey in their area (learning their habits, weaknesses, and so on), but they are always ready to explore new prey (such as adventurers). it's usually the younger and more inexperienced stirges who makes the first flights, as the others watch, preparing to move if the first are succesful, preparing to wait if not. stirges always seek some cover, as many airborne predators fly better than it. stirges avoid flying prey (flying animal companions and familiars can assist). some races, nations and armies sometime capture flocks of stirges, to later unleash them on the enemy. some even train them to attack certain enemies or banners. (In Eberron, armies using the dead or the warforged were known to use the flying menace, mostly for morale affect, their own armies impervious).

stirges are known to be drawn and set up small nests near monsters and creatures who either kill in abundance, or have abilities that work well with theirs (assassin vine, carrion crawler, rust monster for example). in return, they striges do not draw blood from their benefactor, and kill all other annoyances and pests (rat control). druids are divided in their opinions about the stirges. for they can cause great harm, as well as great good. the most troubling issues are the BloodLustSwarms.

a secondary impact on environment, is the Stirges tendency to be disease spreaders. feasting on blood, and living in hot environment, they usually carry some diseases in their system when migrating. the stirges are immensely resistant to most known diseases, and have been at time used to drain the blood of the sick. (House Jorasco's major enclaves in Eberron uses them instead of leeches). the stirges posses a small gland that is believed to assist against various illnesses, and it is highly sought after.

Game mechanics and Mysteries

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Playing, at a D&D table near YOU!

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- "they're out there, i can feel it!": a basic harassment and terror continuing encounter. as the party enters a jungle/ swamp/ deep section of a forest, they notice the strange fluttering of wings and strange humming. (someone with know nature can make a check learn about stirges. with a high enough spot skill, someone may notice a few of the stirges on branches and such... watching...). as the party advances, keep mentioning the humming from time to time, and make some spot checks. they'll notice the little cuties around them... in front of them... behind them. at some point when someone does anything other than moving, make an attack with 1-3 stirges (on the most occupied/ exhausted character). the party should easily beat them/ kill them, but the fluttering will increase momentarily. the stirges will continue to follow, with maybe one more attack. after that they'll just wait, biding their time... if you wish to add a bit more terror, add some dead animals and creatures somewhere, with blood drained.

- "when monsters attack, so do we!": at some point after this, when the characters suddenly engage in battle, have a greater amount of the stirges attack! some should also seem to attack the monster (though if it has a +4 nat armor, it ignores them). this could prove especially surprising if the party shields some vulnerable party member (wizard?) from the monsters, only to have him attacked by the ever waiting stirges. the stirges would also most likely attack anyone who goes "maneuvering" separately, like rogues and scouts... again this pattern of attacking when the party is attacked (the party can use it once or twice against badly armored foes) should happen 1-3 times... after that, when the party has learned and retaliated, they wait... as only stirges can..

[b]- other good points to attack[:/B] could be when the party crosses a bridge, when they swim, when they climb up/down a rope/ cliff. any time they are a bit more busy...

- " when night descends, so do we! who needs a vampire really?" as the party prepares to sleep, the stirges keep being around. if the party sleeps in the open then they are in for some trouble, if they somehow barricaded themselves, then the danger is lessened, but not averted. as some characters begin to sleep, some of the stirges fall to the ground (you might allow a listen check for that, though finding the stirges can be more difficult). they then crawl to the nearest character, and suck some blood from it (see the numbing effect in game mechanics) the guarding character should have some chance to find and kill the intruders (flat footed on the ground). if they sleep in a barricaded place, then less stirges can come in, and they are easily detected and destroyed.
note that the loss of blood also means no healing during the night, and that the casters did not get a "good night's sleep".

- "the gang leader and his homies": (i apologize for my bad slang) not linked to the encounters above, Stirges often reside near an effective creature. how about a large hall, in which some carrion crawlers reside? when a victim is paralyzed, suddenly a stirge or two descend on the wrapped up meal (and the party must deal with their buddy's distress as well). a spider's (or aranea's, or a dridder's) den with all it's webs... once a prey is caught, come the predators... or perhaps a rust monster who coexist with some stirges- once reduces the AC, the other reduces the Con till they fall... stirges could work remarkably well with fairly non intelligent creatures, especially if they don't drink blood, such as... Golems? a group of stirges resides near a ruin guarded by some golem or another, swooping by whenever it starts pounding it's next meal...

- "BloodLustSwarm": the swarm itself is meant to be horrifying, and very deadly if not handled properly. but it can be diverted and redirected fairly easily, if one knows how. however, from my point of view, two significant points about it is not knowing when it will strike, and the mystery surrounding it. i can easily imagine a campaign, in which the party has a few encounters with stirges in an area, the main druid concerned at the increasing numbers. then, as the party explores something entirely different (preferably in some old abandoned place, close by to a rural settlement), they suddenly meet a minor villain, whom they know worships some dark/ insane purpose, standing under a massive nest of stirges, who hum strangely. they engulf it as he laughs and screams (i said insane, you following me?), and then the swarm senses it's next target- one of the characters... the encounters? one- flee the swarm and distract it. two- alert the villagers/ druid/ whomever. three- prepare a sacrifice in the direction of that swarm. four- have a second swarm arrive from an unanticipated direction...

in conclusion: as you see, other than the swarm i haven't diverted that much from what's written in the MM. this could easily be done with many other "banal" monsters! the stirge is indeed a treasure, if used right, and there are so many other treasures out there, just waiting... looking forward to your feedback...
Kol.

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:04 PM

the Stone Giant: it's all about the community. (Thunder Clap variant included)

this entry focuses on making use of community, and making a simple "grunt monster" something more, unique, and memorable. this was also my first attempt at creating variants, in this case- the Thunderclaps.

Stone Giant MMI

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and now presenting to you, the new and improved Stone Giant:

Perceptions and Concept

Spoiler

- perception: giants at large are used as heavy melee combatants by the DM, with only 1-4 giants present. i preferred to focus on the tribe/ family/ small group as a whole (as i do with most intelligent social beings). the party may fight but a few giants, but there is some sort of support from the rest of their little community. also i wanted to make the giants more unique, with a special culture that has in-game ramifications as well... i developed some powers, practices, relations and tools for the culture (some of which unique to these stone giants).
the idea was to make the players not just face "a bigger ogre", but a unique monster, with it's own flavor and strategies. the community aspect, as well as the accompanying powers force the players to deal with added complexity, as well as providing many adventure hooks.

- concept: The Stone Giants are an old, old race... their legends tell of some sort of ancient pact with some force, binding the earth itself to their bodies. whatever this pact was, it has surely benefited the giants- they live longer, require less nutrition then their counterparts, their skin is much hardened, and perhaps most important is their connection with the earth, and the elder secrets they use to protect their community, their land, and care for it. some scholars claim that the stone giants were more numerous in olden days, and that they wielded great secrets and knowledge (as do the druids of these days), but most of these were lost... the remaining secrets however are still quiet potent, some terrifying.
most stone giant communities dwell in a mountainous region, though they can be found in most fairly wild, and open locations. while staying in a region, the Elder of the group (it's the spiritual adviser/ tribe shaman type of personality, but not necessarily) tends to a massive Geode called the Central Geode (in common. the giant name is more complex). this is the center of the Elder's powers, and enables him/her to protect and affect it's members and community in many ways- from strengthening giants from afar, surveying the land through the eyes of long dead petrified giants, use the same sentinels for the protection of the community, and more... the Central Geode recharges it's powers slowly, from the members of the community and the earth upon which it rest.
a sub group of the giants deserves a special reference- the ThunderClaps. Giants conceived or born in the middle of great storms (which the stone giants just love!) sometime display a slightly more reflective skin, as well as special powers. (you could ask your players for a spot check to spot the sheen, and for a knowledge check to realize what it means). these giants show powers connected to thunder, lightning and storm! though revered, many of these giants are encouraged to join special little nomadic groups called In-Thunder's-Step, (again, this is but a literal meaning, the true meaning in giant is obscure) composed mostly (but not entirely) of individuals with similar powers. these groups move between small communities, and perform certain religious rights. the significance of this is unknown, but usually storms can be called. the Thunder elders (who always travel in these groups, never staying at their original community) posses even more secrets, carrying their own center of power- a humming staff.

Place and Interactions:

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Game mechanics

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- game mechanics: these are not meant to be complete, but the basic outline of the ideas that could be easily fleshed out if you're using these ideas. there are a few sections, first dealing with the stone giants, then the Geode, the thunderclaps, the Held Storm, and a few other stuff...

1) younger stone giants: this mainly refers to the giants who might go on a Pebble (though "adults", meaning "full" giants can go to). there are two younger varieties: juvenile at 10HD, young adult at 12 HD. their statistics change accordingly:

less strength for the juvenile
one less natural armor per age category.
the rocks used cause less damage (didn't try to calculate how much).
the age mostly impact on the spell like powers the giants can get from their Stone/Earth Link feat (will be described shortly). this is true for thunder claps as well.

2) Stone Giant Feats: these feats represent a different degree of connection to the earth. all of them require being a stone giant. Giants don't "choose" these feats, instead they represent a gift, (or very special training in the case of the Secrets feats).

Stone/ Earth Link: the giant gains the ability to use spell like abiliites, identical to those of the earth domain, each spell-like ability once per day. instead of an ability score, the giant must have a sufficient amount of HD (both racial and class HD contribute to this). a giant with 10 HD can use the first level spell like ability, and any further tow more HD gives him access to another level (a "normal" 14th level giant gains access to all spell like abilities of the earth domain up to and including the third level).
in addition, the giant gains the Earth domain's special ability, usable once per day only, and he can access the Central Geode Community powers.
(a small note concerning the spell magic stones- the giant version applies to a single small rock, used usually by juveniles. it makes it as damaging as a larger rock (used by adults), besides the other affects...)
Secrets of the Stone Giants: this feat is held only by Elders of giant communities, and requires the previous feat. it enables the Elder to use all of the Central Geode's powers, as well as create a Minor Geode, a Calling Geode, and to recharge a Central Geode. this is the only way to recharge it, and so the Elder is of an enormous importance to the tribe...

3) Central Geode: this is a massive rock, with strange markings upon it, and an odd hum, similar to the Held Storm... it cannot be easily carried, and on migrations the giants make a special contraption to hold it between 4 of them. when not migrating it is buried half way into the earth, from where it draws it's power (together with the elder).
The Geode holds within it a great potential energy, that can be used either by the community members, or by the Elder/s for greater effect. each use of power drains the Geode, and it recharges but slowly. community members are taught to be careful in it's use, but not to fear in case of real danger. The Geode can exercise it's powers from afar. but the farther away the target, the more it is drained. do notice that members could be far from the Geode to call upon it's powers... the power drainage does limit it's range
(i haven't figured out an exact system to handle this, but it should be easy enough. the DM can alternatively just decide when a use is warranted, and when the Geode cannot be used, or is close to depletion). the powers:

"Alert the Watcher": this can be done by any stone giant. by touching a watcher, the Geode begins to tremble (could be miles away). if an Elder than touches it, he could sense which Watcher was touched (and then continue on his own. this power takes minor energy from the Geode.

the Community Powers can be accessed by any stone giant with the Earth/Stone link feat:

"call of stone":the giant's skin becomes grayer, and he takes on a meaner look. it gains a temporary increase to HD, and a toughening of natural skin (i thought 2-3HD, +2 nat per calling, or perhaps a small damage reduction instead? the increase in hit dice does NOT affect the spell like powers. this power takes a small but noticeable amount of energy from the Geode.
"gift of earth": the giant's eyes grow even more.. "earthy". the giant gains access to a spell-like power greater by one level than the normal.
this power takes a small but noticeable amount of energy from the Geode.

the Elder powers form the true powers of the Geode, and the core of the community's defense. the Elder must be in physical contact with it in order to use them:

"eyes, ears, and touch of the Watchers": the Elder can look through the eyes of the Watchers, hear what goes around them, and gains tremor sense for 60 ft. s/he can only "use" one such elder at a time, though most Elders due a weekly "survey" through all the watchers. this power takes a negligible amount of energy from the Geode. (practically free).
"Watcher turned Guardian": the Elder animates a watcher, (essentially an animated object), and unleashes it upon it's foes. the watcher can either give it brief mental commands and let it act on it's own, (perhaps in order to awaken another Watcher nearby?) or he can control it directly, using his own BAB, feats, and so on (while enjoying the Hardness and immunities of the construct). while "in touch" with a guardian the elder may channel any touch, self, or targeted spell unto the Watcher (ig he has any).
this power takes a large amount of energy from the Geode, and is done only at a real sense of danger.
"Summon the earth": the elder can summon an earth elemental to assist combatants, or to help reshape the earth and such. the stone giants sees the earth elementals as holy, and thus prefer to avoid using them in combat. the most common uses are for building, or averting natural disasters (and perhaps causing landslides and such over enemies, limiting the exposure to danger). though the elemental can be summoned at range, the Elder does not retain any link to it after the initial orders were given (unlike with the watchers). this power takes a variable amount of energy from the Geode, depending on the size of the elemental, but it is still a fairly large amount.
Embed Watcher/craft Minor Geode/ Craft calling Geode: all of these uses create tools of the Stone Giant society, and have been/will be explained in the proper place. the first is used to meld a dying giant into the Watcher's form, and requires a little energy. the second requires a medium amount of energy, and is in fact a piece of the Geode which detaches. the last requires a negligible amount, and is also a fist sized shard broken off the Central Geode.

4) Minor Geode: carried by a Pebble or migration scouting group, it enables the Community powers of the Central Geode. however, it's energy is far smaller (1/5-1/8 as the center Geode), and it cannot be recharged.

5) Calling Geode: used by non stone giants to alert stone giants. works like the "Alert the Watcher" power, but requires touching the Geode to the stone sentinel.

6)ThunderClap feats: these can be taken with or without the normal feats (they are not exclusive). however, there is no recorded case of one giant knowing both Secrets feats. all other remarks concerning the stone giant feats are true here as well.

ThunderClap:taken at birth, the giant is immune to lightning and deafening effects. gains resistance sonic 10, about 1 in 20 giant is a ThunderClap...
Thunder/Storm Link: this feat requires the previous feat first. works exactly the same like the Earth/Stone Link except that the domain in question is Weather (not Air...), and that it does not allow access to a Center Geode community powers. it does however allows access to the Held Storm Travel Group powers.
Secrets of the Thunder: requires the previous two feats first. this feat is held only by Thunder Elders, leading In Thunder's Step's nomads. it enables the Elder to use all of the Held Storm's powers. it also enables it's owner to recharge the staff, in appropriate storms.

7) Held Storm: the counterpart for the Center Geode in the nomadic groups, it holds the same function in many ways. it also hold a potential energy, that can be unleashed. it can be recharged only in naturally occurring storms, by someone holding the feat of Secrets of the Thunder. it's range is determined by weather- in calm weather it is short, but the stormier it gets the father the spread. the nomadic group is well aware of it, and tries not to wander too far.
the following power is available to ANY stone giant:

"sense the wind": sort of a compass for the group, the staff enables a greater range of weather prediction tests. upon succeeding on the appropriate survival test, the holder can predict the weather for the next week for farther than the mere near vicinity. in particular, the holder predicts the location of a rough or stormy weather.

the following powers can be called upon (the same as with community powers regarding the Center Geode) by giants with the Thunder/storm Link feat:

"Call of the thunder": the Giant skin begins to vibrate slightly, and then he suddenly emits a sharp burst of shattering thunder (sonic damage? deafening effects? perhaps stun?) ThunderClap giants are immune to this special attack. this power takes a small but noticeable amount of energy from the Held Storm.
"gift of storm": this works exactly like Gift of earth power of the Center Geode, only in regards to the ThunderClap's domain of weather. this power takes a small but noticeable amount of energy from the Held Storm.

the following powers can be used only by a Thunder Elder:

summon storm elemental: pretty much the same as the Summon earth elemental power of the Center Geode. the power expenditure is lower however, and this is a common uses on defense. again- the exact power usage depends on the elemental. they cannot be used to recharge the staff.

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:05 PM

Stone giants, continued

Mysteries and the unknown

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Playing, at a D&D table near YOU!

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in conclusion: i hope you enjoyed. i do believe these fellows have some good playing potential. haven't really dealt with other giants types (perhaps you can fill me in?) i do believe in less monster types, more depth to each. as always- comments are welcome!
Kol

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:06 PM

The Barghest: by the Wolf, the Goblin and the unholy spirit! (includes a most unique PrC...)

the monster has some history in legends, folklore and such, but i read very,very little of it. as with previous entries, i tried to inject a bit more substance to it, other than what the MM says. unlike other entries, this one might be a bit heavier on the "game mechanics" stuff. for you see- the way i expanded on the original description, a Braghest is fairly unique in origin, and thus have some specific rules for it. also- there are more than one type, and the entire race started as a union between two species, a malevolent cosmic force, to form... a Prestige Class.
got you intrigued already? good. the "mechanics" part is not very Stat heavy, more conceptual than anything. and one more important note, before i continue- i mainly play using the Eberron campaign setting, and the existence of the ancient goblinoid Empire inspired me much in this. i might make references to Eberron here and there, but everything is easily adjustable to most campaigns.

ok, time to begin. i suggest to work a little hunger, dim the lights, and think of wolves. hungry, malicious, relentless, cunning and power hungry wolves...
now, imagine you are in their debt...

Barghest MMI

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and now presenting to you, the new and improved Barghest:

perception and concept:

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Place in the world and Reactions:

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Game Mechanics:

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Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:07 PM

Barghest, continued

Mysteries and the Unknown

Spoiler

Playing, at a D&D table near YOU!

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in conclusion: i hope you enjoyed, and that i haven't tired you needlessly. the PrC is obviously far from complete, but i'm really bad at all this fine detail. the Debt and bargain aspect can be easily adapted for other outsiders and beings (dragons?) but i felt it fits the barghest much more. this is one of the most versatile monsters out there, and i think it should have at least a good "side villain" sit in many a campaign...
as always, i'd love any comments or feedback you may have. thanks in advance,
Kol

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:09 PM

The Gargoyle: more than a roof top decoration (multiple variants included)

Gargoyles have a rich history in out world- they decorate many religious establishments, and also some other grand statues. they have often been considered as either watchers/ sentinels or guardians of the structure they decorated, said to wake if a time of need calls them to. many were grafted to the images of devils, angles, and other creatures, representing the supernatural protectors.
DnD tried to draw inspiration from that, but as with many monsters- did that poorly. the gargoyle have been through several transformations through the DnD editions but it always failed to really, um, lift of the ground. i hope this thread will help rectify this, to a small extent at least.
the inspiration for the thread came from many places. (i never said i had utterly original ideas): from years of playing, from reading a bit about history, from Terry Pratchet's books, from the Notredame disney movie, and probably more that i can't think of. still, i hope i gave it all a more "DnD appropriate" feel, and made it more "game worthy".

Gargoyle MMI

Spoiler

and now presenting to you, the new and improved gargoyle:

Perceptions and Concept

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- perception: the changes i have made in the gargoyle all lead to it new roles in the game. the gargoyle is now a construct, with the living subtype. they were originally made creatures, but their intelligence have allowed them to break out as an independent "species" (as far as this term can be applied). this fundamental change is crucial to it's interactions in the world, and also explains part of their unique outlook. moreover, it means there are many, many forms and types of gargoyles, other than the most common ones. (it's not a template though)

the gargoyles were originally created to perform as sentinels, guardians, and protectors. this aspect of their character have prevailed to this day, and dictates much of the gargoyles personality and place in the environment. nearly all gargoyles watch or protect a place, in some way or another. they have developed certain powers to enhance their capabilities in this role. chief amongst these powers, are their abilities to "fade out" and their rebuilding powers (both will be discussed). the first enables them to divert the mind of whomever observes them, looks for them, and so on (this replaces the freeze, making the "statue surprises and attack" schtick far more viable, with added twists). the second enables them to survive after being destroyed, leading to far more extreme battle tactics, similar to fanaticism.

the last major change of role for the gargoyles, is with it's interactions. no more is it but a lonely predator with an odd method of stalking- the gargoyle has a strong connection to religions, history, architecture, and some even say the planes. gargoyles are not "just another monster", and interact with many different creatures based on their own character and the situation.

- concept: we shall begin with the theorized origins of Gargoyles: records show that several times through history, advanced cultures have created, or recreated gargoyles. dissatisfied with the constructs and golems, which were usually mindless and simple. crafters and various artificers (i do not mean the class) of old tried to create an intelligent construct, but have often failed.

it was divine magic rather than arcane that did the trick. priests channeled a massive amount of positive energy of an unknown quality, that both animated the various designated stone bodies, and imbued them with some sort of a core intelligence. the source of this intelligence was unclear at first, but soon enough the gargoyles themselves began to provide clues- they began to modify and sculpt their bodies to the memory of shapes and motifs in their mind- the faces usually became demonic, delivish or angelic. strange runes and writings appeared on the "skin", many of the symbols resembling languages of the outsiders planes. and nearly all gargoyles sprouted stone wings, of some sort or another (usually feathery or leathery looking). needless to say, this caused much speculation in the various religions...

but other than to peek the priests curiosity, the origins of the gargoyles intelligence seemed of little significance- these were independent thinkers, with minds, motivations, and interests of their own. many of them proved far more valuable than the older golems, being capable to reason, and carry out complex tasks. however, this intelligence proved to be a hindrance to the crafters as well- the gargoyles could not be so easily controlled and commanded as the older constructs were. many of them refused tasks, circumvented them, or even rebelled or ran away. though many gargoyles came to understandings with the various temples and other organizations, many also spread far and wide, finding new niches, new alliances, and new places to protect and guard.

many types and forms of gargoyles were created (usually by different species, religions, and so on), but some things are common to all gargoyles. (some of this will be discussed more broadly in the game mechanics part):

living constructs: Gargoyles are made beings, like other constructs, they need not sleep, eat, they do not age and more. they do posses intelligence, constitution score and more. they are also capable of learning and improving themselves, by taking character levels.
a gargoyle is a connection between the stone form, and the positive energy intelligence inside. the energy can expand and recede in the form, leading to three states of body and awareness- the stone sentinel, the half awakened gargoyle and the fully awakened one.
the gargoyles posses a unique ability called "fade out" . this ability is active as long as the gargoyle remains motionless (in any of it's states). it affects the mind of whomever becomes aware of the gargoyle's presence, whether by just spotting it, seeing it, scrying upon it and so... if causes the subject to disregard/ overlook/ forget about the existence of the gargoyle, even if actively looking for it. this is a strong mind affecting effect, and an integral part of the gargoyle's essence. it does not need be aware of any potential targets, and is not aware that this power affects anyone as well. some theorize this power developed to protect the gargoyles from persecution, while other think it developed to help it in it's protective duties (how can you be sure there is nor gargoyle in this room? you might just be overlooking it, while it stares you right in the face). this power works well even against common divinations such as detect invisibility (it's not invisible, you just don't really "want to" see it), scrying, and more. some strong willed individuals are capable of noticing gargoyles while still, but most of the population doesn't (high will D). as soon as the gargoyles moves however, this effect is broken.
positive energy link: gargoyles, being partly made of vivid positive energy, can draw upon other sources of it. this power can both hinder or help channelers of positive energy, and makes the gargoyles valuable allies or enemies to such individuals.
Rebuilding: one of the best kept secrets of the gargoyles, and one of the reason they sometime seem so fierce. gargoyles in battle can often seem careless, without much regard to their personal well being. many times they make use of suicidal tactics to bring down formidable foes. the truth is that though much of the Gargoyle's body may be destroyed, even beyond recognition, the positive energy spirit within can rebuild it, if there are the right conditions. if these conditions are not present, (such as in the case of most roaming gargoyles and feral ones) the gargoyle acts far more cautiously.
alter worked stone: this power works like Stoneshape, only it can work only on worked stone, and it takes it a long time to work... gargoyles everywhere slowly and methodically alter their surroundings- carvings new statues, making glyphs, writing and runes, and in the case of the more industrious gargoyles living in perilous places- traps. this power takes days, if not weeks or months to show it's effects though.
Tongues: a gargoyle cannot speak, but it understand all languages. it communicates either by signals, actions, or scribbling on the earth/ walls. there are more complex forms of communication but that will be dealt with later.
guardian powers: as part of their role, each gargoyle usually posses one or two powers that enhance its capabilities. these usually take the form of a constantly active divination spell/ sensory amplification, but at times have other applications. gargoyles can change these powers to different ones in order to fit their new purpose or role, but this too takes days, weeks, or months.

but these are all general characteristics, they give some insights into the gargoyles and their behavior, but for an in depth look, lets move on to the next section.

Place and Interactions

Spoiler

Game mechanics and Mysteries

Spoiler

- game mechanics: much of this section is not numbered (i'm crap at that), but it does give the basic idea of most things, as well as a general aspired difficulty level.

1) type: construct. subtype: living. most of what is to follow is similar to the warforged, but there are some differences:

it has a constitution score.
it begins with 4 HD and are treated as construct for all purposes of HP, BAB and so on for these HD. any further HD are gained by class levels...
immune to sleep, poison, paralisys, disease and so on... (check the list where needed) not immune to mind effecting spells and abilities, subject to critical hits in varying degrees (will be explained), stunning, ability drain and so on...
as a live construct, the gargoyle can be affected by spells that affect objects as well as creatures. unlike the warforged though, the gargoyle is made out of stone, and is unaffected by any influences that specifically target metal or wood.
unlike the warforged, due to their link to positive energy, gargoyles are fully healed by either "repair" spells or "cure " spells.
gargoyles do posses dark vision to 60 ft.
gargoyles usually gain levels as favored souls, cleric, fighters or whatever fits the theme of their structure. the clerics usually become leaders.
unlike other constructs, the knowledge skill needed to learn information about the gargoyles is knowledge (religion) and not (arcana).

2) shifting states: the gargoyle's positive energy can expand and recede within the stone form, leading to 3 states. the gargoyle needs a standard action to become more awakened, but only a move action to become less... remember however that gargoyles can remain still in any state (a gargoyle planning an ambush will most likely be still in one of the awakened states) :

Stone sentinel: the gargoyle is indeed a statue for all purposes. all senses other than it's Guardian power are diminished (-10 to all such checks), but its "fade out" power is at it's strongest (a really high will DC). It has the hardness of a stone statue of it's size for all purposes of attacks, if by any chance it's presence was Ascertained)
half- awakened: if still, it still looks like a statue (if someone senses it). when in motion, it looks like an animated object, though it acts with a bit more speed and intelligence. compared to the fully awakened, the movement and senses in this form are reduced (about -20ft for all forms of movement, one worse level of flying maneuverability, about -5 to senses checks, low initiative bonus). the gargoyle does retain some hardness from the Sentinel stage (hardness 8? hardness 10?) and the DC for his "fade out" power decreases. has moderate fortification. higher AC than fully awakened.
fully awakened: with the positive energy at the fore, the gargoyle looks like a creature with the color of stone, with fast mobility. (senses at normal, speed at normal, high initiative bonus) the gargoyle loses it's hardness as this stage, but it gains DR/ magic from the bursting energy. the DC for the "fade out" ability is the lowest here (though still challenging. for what levels? didn't try and figure this out, depending on the campaign i suppose). has light fortification.

3)"fade out": this power was described mostly in the concept section. the main differences from the freeze ability are:

it is a mind effecting ability, which is resisted by a will save, not a spot.
if you fail the save, you don't realize the gargoyle (in whatever state it is) is there at all! you don't "see a statue that doesn't seem alive"- you don't see a statue at all!
this isn't invisibility, as it doesn't affect the gargoyle at all. you cannot find it by throwing bags of flower, see invisibility, or anything of the sort. it is in your mind, and your mind alone.
the power is always active, and requires but that the gargoyle stays still. the gargoyle need not be aware that it is being watched. this of course, led to the gargoyles default position- still as a statue. (better safe than sorry).
this effect works through scrying devices and so on.

4) rebuilding: this power has more influence on the long term, than on a single encounter. it might be relevant to explaining gargoyles battling behavior, and to locations which the party may visit several times during the campaign.
if a gargoyle is "killed", the energy inside it can still restore it (after all, that was just the form that was destroyed) in time. if the following conditions are met, the energy rebuilds the form at about 1-3 HP a day. the conditions are as follows:

a gargoyle that reaches 0Hp immediately turns to half awakened (if its fully awakened). at -1HP or less it turns into a stone statue (not a sentinel form!) all it's powers other than this, and the "fade out" cease to function.
the gargoyle can sustain damage up to it's full HP+10 under the zero, before actually dying (a gargoyle with 27 HP can go down to -37 HP before dying). as long as the gargoyle is above that limit, the energy can rebuild it.
for any reconstruction to succeed, the gargoyle must be in contact with worked stone.
i
f the gargoyle is not repaired in a set time (several days? weeks? depending on it's injury?) it dies.

this power is the gargoyles most kept secret, and one that kept them alive many times. relying on this powers and their fellow gargoyles putting them somewhere safe to rebuild after the battle is over (allies get scripted warning to do so, without explanation), gargoyles often use suicidal tactics. one of the favorite ones is to grapple an opponent in a precarious situation (on a ledge, grapple a flier or a swimmer, or someone being chased, or running away from a swarm or something), and then just turn to stone... the grappled (or worse- pinned) opponent is now trapped by the statue, which may plummet from the sky, into the depths, to the side of the building or whatever, and crash, taking it's victim with it.

5) guardian power: every gargoyle sustains one such power, while more powerful gargoyles (one power for every 3 or 4 HD?), can sustain more. gargoyles seem to be able to change their powers, but the process takes time (days to weeks. this should again be relevant if the party visits the same place several times) the powers are active as long as the gargoyles is (as long as it has not been reduced to negative HP). most of the powers mimic detection or abjuration spells. sample powers (i haven't assigned CL or DC for any appropriate ones):

detect alignment/ creature type/ invisibility/ magic...
improved senses: the gargoyle gets a +10 on his spot, listen and search checks, and it's dark vision improves to 120 ft. unlike the other powers, these works fully in sentinel and half awakened forms.
tremor sense.
block scrying in 60 ft radius.
block dimensional travel in 60 ft radius.
dispel illusions 60 ft.

6) positive energy link: gargoyles feel any channeling of positive energy within 60 ft. of them. a gargoyle can try to draw that energy to itself as an immediate action (the gargoyle fort save against the channeler's will save). a gargoyle aware of the presence of a channeler, can ready it's action to draw upon the energy. if that is the case the attempt succeeds immediately. the gargoyle must have line of sight to the channeler. if the drawing attempt succeeds:

if it was a cure spell, it heals the gargoyle instead of the intended target. the gargoyle can gain temporary HP in this manner, beyond it's regular limit.
if it was any other spell using positive energy, it heals the gargoyle as if it was a cure spell of the same level, instead of it's normal affect on the target.
if it was a use of "turn undead", it is instead converted to a healing spell of a level equal to half of the strongest undead turned. the turning attempt is nullified of course.

7) gargoyle script: as mentioned before, it is extremely difficult to decipher this. if the gargoyle/s were asked a specific question about the structure/ place it/ they are attached to, the answer is the equivalent of a Legend Lore spell. if the questions is about some other topic, the answer could also mimic the concept of Legend Lore, but with less accurate results (as the DM sees fit). the problem comes when trying to decipher it:
the DC to the check should be fairly high, but some information can be gained from less than a perfect result. the check is an intelligence check, where 5 points in any relevant knowledge skill grant +2, and knowledge of any sufficiently "archaic/ mysterious" language grants a +1. (for the DM discretion). or if the DM wish, give them a coded message, in several codes, interchanging- an appropriate language breaks one of the codes.

8) variant forms: i only dealt with the main issues i could think of- movement (the figures refer to the awakened state), size, and what makes them different:

Humanoid gargoyles: speed 40 ft. fly 60 (average). those with class levels usually use tools, though not many. (sword, wands and so on)
Lion Gargoyles: speed 60 ft. large size (as a horse), fly 40 ft. (poor). Pounce. Roar (burst radius, save fort or be stunned for 1-4 rounds).
Draconic Gargoyles: size large- huge. speed 60 ft. fly 150 poor. can use any dragon attacks for their size. Spell Resistance, perhaps also resistance 10 to some sort of energy.
Serpentine Gargoyles: size large- huge speed 60 ft. fly 100 (poor). tremor sense, swallow whole, improved grapple and constrict.
Aquatic Gargoyles: usually similar to humanoid or draconic gargoyles. the same except having a swim speed equal to their base speed.
Spider/ Marilian gargoyles: based solely on the humanoid version. speed 60,climb 40 . can use all hands without hindrance.
Collosal/ Ancient Gargoyles: i have no stats to them (it would be like stating a fortress) my suggestions are to make each fairly unique, it's Guardian powers affecting all of it. maybe have creatures living it it/ on it. i imagine its hardness and other powers should be considerably higher, except for may the "fade out", which shouldn't really come into play with this kind of creature.

- mysteries and the unknown: gargoyles, and there pieced-together mind are themselves a mystery. their strange connection to buildings and areas is a bit creepy, and worrying, but so is their seeming connection with other sources of information, or consciousness.
gargoyles however are also a reservoir of information and mysteries. their wealth of information made many a scholar loose his bearing and original purpose. their enigmatic scribbling and writing maybe holding secrets in itself.
gargoyles in a way present an achievement gone too far- a skillful slave that wouldn't stay a slave. some even speculate that these former servants, are not as innocent and disinterested in the world as some may think. infiltrating everywhere, slowly building more, and more, sending themselves everywhere...how many gargoyles are out there? hundreds? thousands? hundreds of thousands? how would you know exactly, when you can't even count the ones in your roof? why are you staring at me like that! i saw at least.. wait a minute, i though i saw... i was sure... hey, weren't there some statues up there? ah, forget about it! just been a long day, i forgot what i was talking about...

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:11 PM

Gargoyles, continued

Playing, at a D&D table near you!

Spoiler

Bonus section! interactions with other monsters of the Compendium!

Spoiler

in conclusion: i do think this is one of my best work, and amongst the most versatile. gargoyles could fit in so many situations and places... hope you enjoyed, and as always- comments are welcomed.

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:14 PM

The Serpent Lords: "how do you like your magic poison, you son of a dragon?" (remake of Nagas and Couatl. several variants included)

similar to the entries for the Barghest and the Gargoyle, the Naga and other serpentine creatures also has a rich history in legends, folklore and more (eastern and African cultures mostly, from my little research). as i saw it, i looked for other serpentine monsters, and noticed some liens of similarity with the Couatl. from here on the creation process rolled on, until i brought the Nagas into their new incarnation, as a single species (sort of) known asThe Serpent Lords. i hope my attempt to unite the monsters doesn't offend anyone.
one more note: as before, some of the following draws inspiration from the Eberron setting, and fit it better. but as before- all here can easily be adapted to any campaign world.

Naga (MMI), Couatl (MMI) and Bone Naga (MMII)
(note: from here after, the term Serpent Lord represent all 3)

Spoiler

And now, presenting to you the new and improved Serpent Lords:

Perception and Concept

Spoiler

Place and Interactions

Spoiler

Game Mechanics

Spoiler

- Game mechanics: as with my other entries, the following is mostly suggestions, and a blue print. i didn't get to the actual numbers. however, i do believe this could be done easily with these guidelines, by someone more inclined to it.
i will now detail the developmental paths of the Serpent Lords, with the powers and changes that accompany them.

1) general abilities:: all serpent lords posses these abilities. they are detailed fully here, new powers , or improvements are detailed in each developmental stage:

Detect thoughts: always active, as the spell
guarded thoughts: no one can read or scry a serpent lords thoughts.
immunity to poison: all poisons, even those of other, more advanced serpent lords.
Delve into Memory: when a Naga bites an opponent, however lightly (even without injecting poison) it might gain a glimpse into the opponents memory. the opponent roles a will save- if it succeeds, the serpent lord only learns basic information- name, class, and tactics of that person for the fight. the Serpent's lord initiative immediately becomes one higher than the opponent's. if the opponent failed it's saving through, the serpent lord gets a longer glimpse into the opponent's memory, learning all that happened in a specific time(detailed in each stage), including the names of friends, strategies and tactics, and the plans for this fight. the initiative becomes one higher than the highest initiative amongst those in the opponent's memory (or +4 generally. what ever is more comfortable)
multiple poisons: the serpent lords have multiple poison glands. the nage decides which poison to inject upon biting (only one!).
Morphic Poison: the primary poison of the naga, causes it's damage to whichever ability score the naga chooses (slight variations in the gland). it is the same ability for the initial and secondary damage.the DC is moderate.
Paralysis poison: moderate DC, initial damage paralysis for 1 minute. secondary damage paralysis for 1 hour.
Truth poison: moderate DC. initial damage target can't lie. secondary damage target must tell the truth. (slightly different)
skills: diplomacy, bluff, gather information, sense motive, intimidation, hide, move silently, swim, all knowledge skills and climb are all class skills. the serpent lords get a significant bonus on the conversational skills as well as swim, and a small bonus to the stealth skills.
speak with animals: always active, usually used to talk with reptiles.
dark vision to 60 ft.
thin body: the serpentine body enables the serpent lords to move through tunnels fit for a tiny creature (standing up). serpents lords usually dig many tunnels through their lair- too small for most creatures the naga fight, but small enough for it to move through.

2) Youngling Naga:

4 HD, medium size, swim speed 50, land speed 30, low natural armor.
spell casting: like a level 3 sorcerer.
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 hours on a failed will save.
Morphic poison: 1d6 ability damage (initial and secondary)

3) Mature Naga:

7 HD, large size. swim 60. land speed 40, +3 natural armor.
spell casting: like a 5th level sorcerer.
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 days on a failed will save.
Morphic Poison: 1d8 ability damage (initial and secondary)
improved grab+ constrict: as the feat and the special attack.
Telekenisis: a new ability, like the spell. the serpent lord can use only the sustained force version of the spell. the force is used to alter and shape the lair mostly, as well as inter act with simple objects.
this is the pivotal moment. from here on the serpent lord can either gain levels or HD, or go by one of the paths.

4) Power Naga, Guardian:

this stage can only be acquired by a neutral or good mature naga.
+2 HD, +2 natural armor.
spell casting: like a 7th level sorcerer. can cast from the clerical list as well, including the Good and protection domain.
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 weeks on a failed will save.
no improvement on the morphic posion.
Cleansing poison: a sort of "anti poison"- it has the effects of Heal, without the cured HP. (it cures poison, and all kinds of ailments)
Bright Scales: 3 times per day, the Guardian Naga can make his scales blindingly bright. everyone with opened eyes must succeed at a reflex save (moderate DC) or be blinded for 2d6 rounds.

Power Naga, Dark:

this stage can only be acquired by a neutral or evil mature naga.
+2 HD, +2 natural armor.
spell casting: like a 7th level sorcerer. can cast from the clerical list as well, including the evil and trickery domain.
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 weeks on a failed will save.
no improvement on the morphic poison.
Memory altering poison: low- mid DC. initial and secondary damage: minor memory loss- the character is regarded as having two negative levels, but without it being negative energy. the posion stays in the system. if the target is unconscious, the naga can speak and try to alter the target's memory. if it fails a will save (moderate DC), it comes to believe the Naga's version of events about the past 1d4 weeks (months for Dark Nagas)
devotion poison: initial damage- the target is charmed. secondary damage: the target is devoted to the Naga, (similar to the effects of quest/ geas, only unknowingly so.) and will do it's best to aid it's cause! the first affect wears off after 1d6 hours, the second after 4d6 days!

Power Naga, Venom Lord:

this stage can only be acquired by a mature naga.
+3 HD, +3 natural armor, +4 con (which also affects the poisons DCs)
spell casting: like a 7th level sorcerer. can cast from the druid list
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 weeks on a failed will save.
morphic poison: 1d10 ability damage (both initial and secondary). only the Venom lord amongst the power Nagas improves this poison
spit poisons: all poisons become also contact poison. the naga can spit it to 30 feet as a ranged touch attack. no range increments.
command reptiles:as command animals, but only or reptiles. the caster levels equal to the HD for this affect.
cannot continue on evolving by paths, just HD and levels.

5) ascendent, Couatl:

this stage can only be acquired by a good guardian naga.
+2 HD, +2 natural armor, +2 con. type outsider (native, good). the couatl gains feathery wings. fly 60 (good).
spell casting: like a 9th level sorcerer. can cast from the clerical list as well, including the Good and protection domain.
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 months on a failed will save.
morphic poison: 2d6 ability damage (initial and secondary)
ascendant powers: plane shift, ethereal jaunt, detect any alignment. all at will.
prismatic Scales: 3 times per day, the Guardian Naga can make his scales to shimmer in all the colors of the rainbow. the next one hit by the Couatl (by touch attack or regular one) is affected as if hit by a prismatic spray.

ascendant, Bone Naga:

this stage can only be acquired by a evil dark naga.
+2 HD, +2 natural armor, +2 con. type undead.
spell casting: like a 11th level sorcerer. can cast from the clerical list as well, including the evil and trickery domain. the Bone Naga sacrifices other forces compared to the Couatl, to gain this levels of spells.
Delve into Memory: can delve to 1d4 months on a failed will save.
morphic poison:2d6 ability damage (initial and secondary)
Live in the Poison: the transformation the naga takes lives her body a skeletal form, strong in itself, but still but a vessel to the real home of the Bone Naga's life force- the Poison. when a Bona Naga bites an opponent, it can try to inject itself into it. there is 1 saving throw. if the opponent fails, the naga now curses in it's veins, dominating it as if by a magic jar. further more- all the victims memories, skills and abilities become available to the Naga.
accompanying husk: the skeleton provides a sort of a phylactery. if the host of the naga dies, the Naga's life force returns to the poison gland in 1d3 days. if the husk is destroyed, the bone naga (in it's host) must find a new naga from which to create it's husk (any mature or above will suffice. but not a youngling, or a Couatl).
the skeleton can also accompany the naga, as an intelligent skeleton, with a +4 turn resistence. most Bone Nagas do so only if they need to relocate far, or if they need another combatant desperatly, and there is no one near. the skeleton can still use it's poisons! (though the Bone Naga needs to use a move action to change types)
powers within host: the naga retains all it's powers not requiring the naga's body (poisons, constrict and so on). it can use all of the host powers that are not psionic or solely mental based super natural abilities.
avoid detection: the Nagas presence inside a host body is very hard to detect. any attempt to do so requires a caster level check, against the Naga's HD.

Kol Korran · 05-21-2008, 04:17 PM

Serpent Lords, continued

Mysteries and the Unknown

Spoiler

Playing at a D&D table near YOU!

Spoiler

Bonus section! Reactions with the other monsters in the compendium!

Spoiler

in conclusion: i hope that this remake made these monsters more playable, more fun, and more intriguing. the naga is a sort of an underdog, but a vicious, cunning, and moderately powerful underdog. hopefully, this entry has given more depth to the creature, as well as a place in any campaign world. has it found it's way to yours? hope you enjoyed,
Kol.

Kol Korran · 05-22-2008, 07:18 PM

PHEEEEEEWW! finally finished bringing this thread up to date... there are things for new readers, and old readers alike here. please, tell me what you think- of the old entries, the new one, the general structure, anything really.

i think i'll go rest now...

EvilElitest · 05-22-2008, 07:40 PM

Hey, i love this thread, if i had more time i wanted to do gorgons. Could you do some old 2E monsters as well
from
EE

Trog · 05-22-2008, 07:43 PM

*Trog enters smoking a Coffin Nail*

Trog was told to report here?

Kol Korran · 05-23-2008, 02:03 PM

The Yeth Hound: flying terrors from above!(by Prometheus)

This is the first entry not done by me, but by Prometheus as you might see, the format is different, and that is cool! i posted it as is (under the spoilers) as i like people's own styles and.. he let me do it. as always, i hope you enjoy his fine work!

Yeth Hound MMI

Spoiler

and now, presenting the new and improved Yeth Hound:

Perceptions and Concept

Spoiler

the rest of it (i didn't know how to organize it)

Spoiler

-Fear's Purpose: Some isolationist towns like to cultivate or introduce a band of Yeth Hounds into the surrounding wilderness. Most of the time, they don't harm people, they just give them a good chase. As a result, the village tends to be bypassed by most outside events and can keep to itself. Perhaps more nefariously, a few in control of the city use it to make sure that no one else attempts to leave (like M.Night Shamalan's The Village).
-mechanics: Each time a creature fails a Will Save to the Yeth Hounds Bay special attack, it receives a cumulative -2 penalty to it, to a maximum of -6, each penalty lasting for a month.
Rather than make multiple bay attacks, a herd of Yeth Hounds can make a single Bay attack that receives a +2 bonus to the DC for each beyond the first up to a maximum of four with a +6 bonus.

-Yeth Hound Den: While yeth hounds are frequently encountered on the prowl, they gather in their own cavernous den where they hide in the day, and the only way to root them out of an area is to destroy it. Yeth hounds permit other creatures to inhabit the outskirts of their den - so long as they don't hunt the yeth hounds, they can feed off of those driven from the den by fear. In addition to the hazards posed by the cohabitants, the complex is usually very uneven, slippery, jagged and unstable - most of this is natural, but occasionally intelligent yeth hounds put work into digging up and trapping their surroundings. The yeth hounds are easily able to fly through the caves, and the more the fleeing humanoids trip and harm themselves, the better. Also, it provides many perches for them to hide on in the dark. The cavern usually has an erratic and maze-like quality to it with many dead ends and more than one exit/entrance.
From a distance, Yeth hounds can cause their cries to echo so that the creature is confused about which way to run or harms himself or herself trying to escape. When they come closer, they can choose to herd their subject in circles, out of the cavern, or into a dead end -whichever they prefer.
Exceptionally large and well-made Yeth Hound dens will usually include a band of enslaved humanoids or monstrous humanoids (Grimlocks, Mongrelfolk, Goblins, Gnomes) which they chase around their for their daytime amusement. After a hunt, they'll bring back some scraps for their prisoners to subsist on, which is usually the best indication of where a Yeth hound den is, and whether or not they have captives.
-mechanics: A Yeth Hound's Bay ability echoes two times the ordinary range in a Yeth Hound's Den. In a Yeth Hound's Den, a Yeth Hound may make a DC 15 Dex Check to direct its Bay ability so it appears to come from a different direction so long as it has the ability to find an appropriate path within range.

-Yethi Mounts & Companions:
Sinister witches and staunch warlords alike can use a beast which drives their enemies mad with fear. They can serve as scouts, guard dogs, and as part of a strategic attack. They are the traditional mount of Wisplings, and their flying trickery is quite something to mettle with.
-mechanics: A Yeth Hound may serve as a Blackguard's fiendish servant as though the Blackguard had a character level of three less. A Yeth Hound may serve as an improved familiar (CWar) at an Arcane Caster and BAB level of 7. Obviously, a Yeth Hound is still able to function as a cohort with an LA +3.

-Wereyeths: That is, the Were-Yeth Hound. When Yeth Hounds are struck by a Werewolf, they must make a Fortitude save to avoid contracting the curse of lycanthropy as if they were humanoid, but rather than becoming a werewolf yeth hound, or a werefolf humanoid, they become a wereyeth humanoid (of the same species of that the werewolf was). Although this seems like an unlikely event, the results are quite enduring. Even in human form, its irrational form of flight is completely active and it makes for a formidable opponent.
mechanics-the lycanthrope template remains mostly the same, with a few modifications. It has outsider HD rather than animal HD. DR/silver is increased by 5 in every form. It's ability modifiers are Str +6, Dex+4, Con+4. Alignment Neutral Evil.

Bring it all Together: Mayor trains Yeth Hounds to isolate town. Yeth hounds keep traveling-merchants prisoners in their den. The mayor periodically comes by and collects the merchant's wealth (he's yething all the way to the bank). When players destroy the den, the Mayor introduces more. They must be coming from somewhere and the experts agrees destroying the den usually does it. When the players confront the Mayor, oh snap, he's a Wereyeth! Apparently this little project had that nasty side effect - a nasty side effect he defends to his death (But if he inflicts one of them, he gets his last yeth). If only he would have let his daughter go out at night a flirt with the city merchants we wouldn't have this problem, would we.

in conclusion (by Prometheus): Yeth hounds, are awesome I hope I gave the thread format justice.

comment by Kol Korran: you see? not that complicated! all formats are welcomed. it's your ideas and creativity that matters. well done Prometheus, may there be many more!

Pirate_King · 05-24-2008, 11:41 PM

These are pretty nice, I'll have to use the barghest and gargoyles.

Kol Korran · 05-27-2008, 04:31 AM

due to a recent suggestion, i've decided to try something new: i understand that though many have you may have good ideas, you lack the time or inclination to write an entry down.

so, why not let me do it for you? tell me of your ideas (either by posting them here, or by sending me a private message), and i'll try and expand on those core ideas, and make them into a full entry, mentioning you of course.

some points i'd like to make about this:
- when sending me an idea, don't just mention a monster. try to detail at least a few things you want it to be revamped, and how- i need some core/ seed ideas to start from.
- the most importent thing is the new "concept and perception" parts, since from them i can usually deduct the rest.
- the creature must be "maligned, forgotten or misunderstood". i won't expand on red dragons or mind flayers for example, since they make their appearances on many a game.
- bear in mind that it might take me some time to write an entry, and that in some cases i won't have enough ideas to write a worthy one. so be patient, and understand if i say i'm stumped for ideas (i will at least send you a private message to let you know)
- i still would love to see your own entries, since a person's style adds a lot to a post, IMO at least. besides, it might encourage others. so if you can write an entry, please do. we'd like to see your works.

that is all i have. now lets see the talents ("American Monster"?), getting ready to work,
Kol.

Kol Korran · 05-28-2008, 11:34 AM

The Wights: worse than the Black plague, in a "fits all" new size! (a Template, and several sample creatures included) (by batsofchaos)
this is the second entry not done by me, but by batsofchaos. It was originally posted in the Home brew forum, since it detailed a full template (in the game mechanics section), not just general suggestions as i normally do. the entry is all his work (i mostly used "copy-paste") and is added here with his permission. so, without further ado

Wight MMI

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And now, presenting to you, the new and improved Wight:
Perception and Concept

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Place and Interactions

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Game Mechanics and Mysteries

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Playing at a DnD Table Near You!:

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In Conclusion:(by batsofchaos)

Not too much different from the standard Wight which is a fairly useful monster, but a strong alteration that can lead to much greater intrigue and versatility.

Comment by Kol Korran: as you see different forumists with widely different choice of emphasis. all works are accepted though, so feel free to contribute, so we could all enjoy the fruits of your imagination and creativity.

batsofchaos · 05-29-2008, 01:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by EvilElitest

Hey, i love this thread, if i had more time i wanted to do gorgons. Could you do some old 2E monsters as well
from
EE

I'd be interested in seeing a treatment of Gorgons; they always fell flat for me. I mean, mythologically speaking Medusas should be gorgons. The seperation always seemed weird...and a breath weapon instead of a gaze attack? Why are the gorgons a higher CR than Medusa; she was the queen of the gorgons!

I know I shouldn't look too closely; mythology and DnD don't exactly mix perfectly. I still have had no use for gorgons as a result.

Kol Korran · 06-23-2008, 07:39 AM

The Troglodyte: more than just a case of bad odor. a glimpse through a twisted and broken mirror

i noticed these lizardine folks due to a comment by Trog, (earlier on this thread. i hope you like what it turned out to be!). as i read through the monster entry, at first i didn't find much to work with. but upon googling the troglodyte and reading a bit, a few ideas and adaptations came to mind. this entry barely has "game mechanics", focusing more on cultural aspects. also, it is shorter than previous ones...

Troglodyte MMI

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and now presenting to you, the new and improved Troglodyte:

Perception and Concept

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Place and Interactions

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Game mechanics and Mysteries

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Playing, at a D&D table near YOU!

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- "and there goes the floor": one of the first signs of troglodyte presence is when they tunnel straight to the source (or perhaps they mistook a bit) of their query. (this is especially trur if they have a high enough level of a divine caster, that can.. well... divine the location of the query). imagine a ball the party was invited to, and suddenly the floor collapses, and a bunch of trogs climb up, stinking up the place! (maybe they sought another place, or maybe they needed the chandelier!)
the battle can descend back to the tunnels, but the troglodytes can collapse them behind them, if they need to escape

- "brutes with magical help": time to bring in the allies, with help in the forms of charms and such (certainly won't look out of place in the regular ogre's garb for instance) as well as maybe a divine casting troglodyte in the back (entangle wouldn't hurt ogres much, would it?

- "predicting the next heist": if the tribe needs several different items, it will become very hard to figure out where they will hit next. unless... what if one of the dead ones drop a partial list, (perhaps half eaten by a lizard?) now the party needs to find where the trogs are going to hit next! could be a fun game of "why the hell does DARK RU..." mean? also, with the watchers- after a battle or two the party is fighting their own style!

- "torture, troglodyte style!" at one of the encounters, the troglodytes focus one one character or two (i'd suggest two, so it would be a fun play between them) and kidnap them! (again- they could separate them from the others by collapsing tunnels, Stone Shape, and more). then, the full scope of troglodyte mimicry comes to view- as they arrive at their tunnels- they see they resemble the places that were attacked, some troglodytes act like people in the town/ city... and worst of all- now they (the players) are being mimicked, to the max! clothes, talking, personality, and so on... but there is more! they are being "turned" to troglodytes! (the smell would be the worst). design your preferred escape plan...

- "and now undead?" this could be added sooner or later, as the troglodyte start bringing in the dead. (which could be accompanied by both a rebuking cleric and a spirit shaman. would be an odd combination). have the undead stink already, from previous generous application of odor.

- "to the Citadel": if the players defeat the troglodytes before they escape, and they interogate the divine leader (vie speak with dead for example), they might find the location of the lost citadel, and perhaps also the purpose of gathering all of those materials! but the Citadels' trogs are going to prove much more powerful, and entrenched. it seems the roles have turned...

- "or perhaps just a trade?" if the players don't exterminate the troglodytes, they could porbably trade with them for several things: charms and fetishes, location of other ruins' knowledge of subterranean travel (especially fitting if your world has an active underworld). the engagement could end neutrally, and the troglodytes moving on... they can even tunnel a way for the characters, though the incessant mimicry might deter some players... (especially those who experienced it already)

in conclusion: a bit shorter than usual, but i think it is still worthwhile. hopefully this added you a race to your campaign. anyway, i'd really, really love any remarks, on the Troglodyte or others
Kol.

Kol Korran · 10-13-2008, 03:33 PM

The Hydra- "because 12 heads are better than one!"
The Hydra appears in the story of Hercules first. it has since then gained popularity, as a symbol of savagery, but also renewal and growth. a real world critter was named after this monster as well, though it's size, appetite and general demeanor are far from the renown beastly reputation.
D&D draws on the mythological Hydra, in a fairly accurate way, but it doesn't evolve her beyond that. it remains but a monster... this, i hope to change.
A few people helped me with ideas and refinement here. the main ones are AslanCross, Triaxx and Biffoniacus Furiou, but i thank all who helped. now, lets get down to business...

Hydra MMI

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and now presenting to you, the new and improved Hydra:

Perceptions and Concept

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- perception: the role of the hydra in most DnD games is limited to a tough solo encounter, solvable only by battle or flight. there are three main changes in perception i have made to the hydra. the first is that though it may be a beast, it is a cunning beast, using it's surroundings to it's advantage, assessing risks and more. it knows it's strengths and weaknesses and it reacts accordingly.

the second change is that the hydras, through increased intelligence begin to speak, negotiate and even crudely trace and deal with other intelligent beings. this opens a whole new set of encounters for an adventuring party, both in dealing with the hydra itself, or with allies of her.

the third change is that Hydras now have a greater place in the world, as a rumored offshoot of the ancestor of dragons and wyrms. hydras are powerful creatures, but not as powerful as their cousins. they can achieve interesting abilities however...

- concept: a Hydra is a most peculiar creature. there are three key concepts to realize about a Hydra to really understand how much it changes through life, how much it evolves, and how conflicted it is... the first thing to remember is that the hydra is not a single creature really- it is many creatures in the same body, and there is a battle of wills and discipline. a hydra begins life with 3 heads (more on the life cycle later), and after several brief and brutal fights amongst them, the dominant head takes a position of seniority. the two other heads become subservient to it, and act as helpers and guardians to it.

these 3 heads keep leading the hydras efforts. as it gains heads the dominant "demonstrates" it's dominance, but the control is loose. at most times the heads are but half controlled by the dominant head and the guardian ones, attacking whomever they want and acting however they like. the dominant head does however assert control in matters of emergency, and other events such as negotiations and such. some who have fought hydras report this dual nature in fighting- at first the heads lash about everywhere, but once it's heads start to get loped off and burned, the main head suddenly focuses the heads attacks on the main threats.

another special and important note made by researchers- unless a stump gets burned, one of the two growing heads is Identical to the one that was cut off, including personality, memories, and so on. it was theorized that the Hydra's "main brain" was lodged in the body but none was found. this remarkable phenomenon must be part of the hydras magic, and the secret is highly sought after. it is this ability that enables a hydra to truly remain intact after a fight, in all manners.

if a stump is burned however, than that head is truly dead, like a severed limb. if a dominant head gets cut off and burned than one of the guardians takes its place (but see later on intelligence). as the heads have a different personality this means the hydra's entire attitude just changed! the guardian heads however are very loyal to the dominant head, and try their best to protect it.

another important aspect to learn about the hydra is that as it ages, it adds not only heads, but also intelligence, wisdom and charisma! these are added to all the heads, but the dominant one, which have began the smartest, is always assumed to have the best scores. hydras also begin to speak at a certain age, and so their options broaden considerably. the hydra's relatively fast growing mental capabilities mean that it changes rapidly, becoming smarter and wiser at an incredible pace. the hydras you met a few years back isn't the hydra you're meeting today...

the last aspect to remember about the hydra, which stems from the previous two, is the constant struggle within it. the hydra contains many heads, with various mental capabilities, forced to live together. some heads are more "civilized" (in a broad manner of speaking) while others are always more beastly. a hydra, even an elderly one of 12 heads will always display both aspects- beast and intelligence, savagery and refinement. most who dealt with hydra say this is the most unsettling aspect of all. you can one minute deal with a noble, only to be attacked by a bloodthirsty mob the next...

Place and Interactions

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Game mechanics and Mysteries

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Kol Korran · 10-13-2008, 05:03 PM

Hydras continued

Playing, at a D&D table near you!

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Bonus section! interactions with other monsters of the Compendium!

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in conclusion: i hope it was an interesting read, and that some new ideas sprang up. i would again like to thank all who helped me, and as usual- all comments (especially words of encouragement) are welcome!
Kol

Prometheus · 10-13-2008, 09:43 PM

I really like the troglodytes (I must have missed them the first time around).

Yes, you have done the Yeth Hounds justice. I kind of opened them up to interactions when I mentioned their habit of coexisting with creature's near their den and I feel like you have posted consistently with the idea. Yeth Hounds should have no problem outsourcing their fear to other creatures, but of course this habit doesn't always mesh well with the habits of the others.

You do a fine job writing these Kol Korran, but I'd probably make a new creature myself should I want to add a particular one. I'm currently thinking about Tendriculos but may chose to do another instead.

cnsvnc · 10-13-2008, 11:32 PM

Another great critter. You do great work Korran. And the hydra really needed some love.

Kol Korran · 10-15-2008, 03:25 AM

thanks for the encouragment Prometheus and cnsvnc! it realy, realy helps seeing -some- feedback after all that writing.

i'd be delighted to host onemore of your creations here prometheus, feel free to post straight into the thread. my only requests is that if possible, use spoilers (it keeps things neat without too much text overwhelming) and if you can find one- add a pic- it gives the thread a more "compedium" feel. but neither is necessery- just your vivid imagination!

Kol.

Eldrys · 03-18-2009, 10:27 PM

cool I would like to see my favorite creature, The Hound Archon, here. My DM says that there is no way for them to be introduced in our campaign unless I want to kill off my current character and start at first level (we are a level 7 group) and he says that there is no way to make them an effective NPC.

Pirate_King · 03-19-2009, 10:48 AM

The conflicted nature of their psychology and the Mind Flayer captive scenario could make for an interesting role play with a hydra as a temporary ally. I may have to use that in some adventure.

Kol Korran · 03-19-2009, 11:45 AM

hhhmmmmmm, mind flayers and hydras. never thought about it. with the order of the hierarchy of heads there might be some deteoration in the "quality" of brains if the mindflayers pick the brainier brains.

on a side note: been awhile since i wrote an entry (been doing other stuff), but i will soon. i'm mostly thinking about a the hags ("ding dong the witch ain't dead") but Eldar Ditto suggested the Hound Archon, which is interesting, but for which i have no immediate ideas. anyone else with favorites or ideas? (and some core suggestions on how to develop them?) 4E also accepted, though i must say that i have even less ideas for them. (nearly no fluff whatsoever to begin working from)

oh, and one more importent thing- thanks for the encouragement. since this thing has launched i kind of accepted that nearly no one is realy interested in it, and i'm doing this mostly for my own satisfaction (letting out the demons of creativity), but it's always pleasing to see someone else like my works as well.

so thanks Eldar Ditto, and thanks Pirate_King
Kol.

ColonelFuster · 07-10-2009, 02:16 PM

At risk for necromancy warnings, I know, but this is a really interesting subject. The Stirges were particularly well written, and I think my favorite part of this grand experiment is going to be the smaller, weaker horde of monsters that are CR 0-4 that need some love. I'm thinking of magmins, off the top of my head. The only one i've ever used as a DM was a mind flayer's slave, used to torture people. I'm not sure how I could justify using them for much else; they're essentially fire elemental, not-quite-evil gnomes.

Kol Korran · 09-14-2009, 05:49 PM

The Aranea: oh, what a tangled web we weave...

been a long time since i posted, but here is another vastly remorphed critter. it definetely fits the bill of forgot tne and misunderstood, but i hope after this at least someone will like it.
Aranea- add an "e" and it's the class of spiders. what marvelous, yet creepy creatures! to some they represent beauty, to some horror, to some they are pests, but they keep many pests away. this post was inspired by a thread discussing spiders in Australia (amongst other things), which got me thinking about these beauties, and the last time i used them... good times, good times!

Aranea MMI

my editing program is shut to hell so there is only this pic. it does not depict the Aranea as i think of it very well, but it might draw the attention of Aranea lovers.

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and now presenting to you, the new and improved Aranea:

Perceptions and Concept

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Place and Interactions

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Game mechanics and Mysteries

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