Stoneback Lurker
Mechanical Predator Construct (CR 4)
Description:
The Stoneback Lurker is a squat, crab-like automaton built from heavy stone and rusted plates, designed to mimic the look and shape of a natural boulder. Built by artificers like Merric Gearspark to serve as ambush predators or sentries, they remain perfectly still for centuries if needed, hidden among rubble or ruins. When prey draws near, the Lurker unfolds with startling speed, revealing jagged claws and a glowing arcane core.
Fighting Strategy:
The Lurker lies in wait, activating only when a creature comes within 10 feet. It targets lightly armored enemies first, using its Core Pulse to disrupt casters and its claws to grapple and pin foes. If heavily damaged, it retreats into a hardened shell state, becoming nearly impervious for a short time.
Stats
- AC: 17 (natural armor, stone plating)
- HP: 75 (10d8 + 30)
- Speed: 20 ft., burrow 10 ft.
- Initiative Bonus: +0
Attack Bonus and Saving Throws:
- Attack Bonus: +6
- Saving Throws: CON +5, DEX +2
Resistances and Immunities:
- Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
- Damage Immunities: Poison, Psychic, Lightning
- Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened, Paralyzed, Exhaustion, Poisoned
Attacks:
- Stone Claws (Melee Weapon Attack): +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) slashing damage. Target must succeed on a DC 13 Strength save or be grappled (escape DC 13).
- Core Pulse (Recharge 5–6): The Lurker emits a disruptive energy burst in a 15 ft. radius. Creatures must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution save or take 14 (4d6) force damage and lose concentration on spells. Half damage on a success.
Special Ability – Shellform Camouflage:
When motionless, the Stoneback Lurker is indistinguishable from ordinary rock. A creature must succeed on a DC 15 Investigation or Nature check to recognize it as a construct. While in shellform and motionless, it has advantage on all Stealth checks and cannot be detected by tremorsense or divination magic unless specifically designed to detect constructs.
