Rust Monster
A rust monster, colloquially known as a rustie, is a cretacean-like amphibious Monstrosity that feeds on metal.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The rust monster has a squat body with eight insect-like legs and an armored shell the color of reddish clay. It is the size of a large dog, with antennae nearly half the length of its body. Its body is distinctly moist and slimy.
Dietary Needs and Habits
The process of a rust monster feeding on metal is surprisingly similar to photosynthesis. It takes in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produces oxygen, which it breathes onto the metal it eats. The combination of the oxygen and the moisture secreted from its skin and saliva oxidizes the metal quickly, allowing the rust monster to break it down and absorb nutrients.
Behaviour
Rust monsters often form symbiotic relationships with monstrosities that prey on humanoids, particularly in abandoned ruins or other environments where adventurers are common. These other monsters kill Humanoid targets and feast on their flesh, blood, or souls, but tend to leave their equipment behind. Once the victim is no longer alive to defend its metal belongings, the rust monster can quickly and safely move in and scavenge its meal. A notable example of this symbiosis can be found in the ventilation shafts of Dancamort. Piercers make their home high in the shafts, ready to drop on unsuspecting passers-by. The city of Dancamort regularly installs iron grates to stop their progress. Rust monsters learned to feed on these grates, rusting them away so that the piercers are free to drop onto their prey. Once the piercer has sucked the innards from its victim, the rust monster descends and eats any metal equipment it leaves behind.
Related Ethnicities
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