Hunger and Fury
Boots will sink into thick, loamy soil on approach from the southern slope filled with dense foliage of spear-like plants. The tall, pointed leaves of the Spearroot plants are easily identifiable, standing out amidst the greenery with their bright orange blossoms.
The ruins loom ahead, overgrown with twisting vines and partially hidden beneath a dense canopy. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the moss-covered stones. The air is heavy with the scent of damp earth and blooming flora, mingling to create a heady aroma that fills the senses. The distant sound of trickling water adds a serene yet haunting undertone to the scene.
Deeper: The Old Bastion is an ancient fortification of the hill folk, now reduced to pits, caves, and crumbling ruins. Most of the structures are buried under earth and stone, leaving interlopers with and eerie, forgotten feel.
The grove on the southern slope is the only place where the valuable Spearroot tubers grow [Difficult Terrain]. These tubers are known for their medicinal properties, particularly in treating symptoms of festering rot, an affliction becoming evermore common in livestock and wild herds. Harvesting Spearroot is dangerous. The plants require skilled hands [Moderate] to harvest and store correctly else the crop is ruined. The remedy itself requires alchemical training [Difficult] to prepare.
The Chimera, a fearsome creature, has made its lair within the ruins of the Sunken Bastion. This Chimera is a terrifying amalgamation of different animals [D4+2] - is unique in that it can change form depending on the prey it encounters, making it an unpredictable and formidable opponent. While the beast spends much of its time sleeping, any who disturbs it in the ruins will face the Chimera's wrath [1:D4].
Chimera Traits
When encountered, GM rolls D4+2 and selects that number of traits from the lists below. Assume that the base Chimera is a quadraped that posesses a basic slam attack. Traits will modify this as described. Be sure to include elements of the trait and animal when describing the animal.
Common
- Wolf (Keen Senses): Enhanced smell and hearing, ideal for detecting hidden threats and prey.
- Hawk (Sharp Vision): Superior eyesight, especially at a distance, perfect for spotting movement from afar.
- Boar (Charge): Powerful charging attack, capable of knocking down foes with brute force.
- Falcon (Agility): High-speed aerial maneuvers, excellent for swift and precise attacks.
- Stag (Antlers): Goring and defensive capabilities, effective in close combat.
- Owl (Silent Flight): Stealthy and silent movement, perfect for nocturnal ambushes.
- Horse (Endurance): Stamina for long distances, able to maintain speed over extended periods.
- Raven (Intelligence): High problem-solving skills, adept at outsmarting adversaries.
- Bear (Strength): Immense physical power, capable of overpowering most opponents.
- Fox (Cunning): High adaptability and cleverness, able to find solutions in difficult situations.
- Scorpion (Venomous Sting): Poisonous tail attack, delivering venom that incapacitates or kills.
- Serpent (Constriction): Ability to wrap around and immobilize enemies, suffocating them.
- Lizard (Regeneration): Ability to heal quickly from injuries, allowing for rapid recovery.
- Panther (Stealth): Expert at moving unseen and unheard, perfect for stalking prey.
- Eagle (Powerful Talons): Strong grip and slashing attack, capable of inflicting severe damage.
- Tarantula (Web Spinning): Ability to create webs for trapping enemies, immobilizing them.
- Parrot (Mimicry): Ability to replicate sounds and voices, useful for deception.
- Cobra (Hypnotic Gaze): Ability to mesmerize or intimidate, creating openings for attack.
- Chameleon (Camouflage): Ability to blend into surroundings, excellent for ambushes.
- Bison (Stamina): Great resilience and endurance, able to withstand harsh conditions.
- Vulture (Carrion Sense): Ability to detect death and decay, finding food in dire situations.
- Python (Constriction): Ability to squeeze and crush, effectively neutralizing threats.
- Leopard (Speed): Fast, agile movements, ideal for quick strikes and evasion.
- Crane (Balance): Exceptional poise and balance, perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
- Elk (Majesty): Commanding presence, often deterring potential threats.
- Heron (Spearing Beak): Quick and deadly beak strike, effective in close combat.
- Lynx (Stealth): Ability to move silently and unseen, excellent for ambushes.
- Crocodile (Armored Scales): Natural defense with tough, resilient skin, resistant to damage.
- Peacock (Blinding Display): Bright feathers used to distract or intimidate, creating opportunities.
- Swan (Grace): Elegant and precise in movements, difficult to predict in combat.
- Stingray (Electric Shock): Ability to deliver a shock, stunning or incapacitating foes.
- Buffalo (Strength): Physical power and resilience, able to withstand and deliver powerful blows.
- Armadillo (Armor): Protective shell, providing excellent defense against attacks.
- Tiger (Ferocity): Savage and relentless in combat, difficult to deter once provoked.
- Magpie (Curiosity): Natural inclination to explore and investigate, uncovering secrets.
- Mantis (Precision Strike): Highly accurate and deadly attack, often fatal.
- Komodo Dragon (Toxic Saliva): Bite with venomous effects, causing severe and lingering damage.
- Jaguar (Climbing): Excellent ability to climb and ambush, attacking from unexpected angles.
- Duck (Water Adaptation): Skilled in swimming and water navigation, versatile in various terrains.
- Monitor Lizard (Tracking): Keen sense for following trails, effective in pursuing prey.
- Camel (Water Storage): Ability to go long periods without water, surviving in harsh conditions.
- Turtle (Defensive Shell): High natural defense, difficult to harm.
- Skunk (Chemical Spray): Ability to release a noxious spray for defense, deterring attackers.
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