Cat

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Cat Introduction

In the dim light of the tavern, as the fire crackles and shadows dance along the walls, a tale is spun of a creature both familiar and enigmatic. The cat, a creature of grace and mystery, prowls the realms of both the mundane and the magical. Its sleek form moves with an elegance that belies its predatory nature, eyes glinting like twin moons in the night. The fur, soft and luxurious, ranges in hues from the deepest midnight black to the purest snow white, often adorned with stripes or spots that seem to shift and change in the flickering light.

These creatures are known for their aloof demeanor, yet they possess an intelligence that is both cunning and curious. Cats are often found in the company of wizards and witches, drawn to the arcane energies that swirl around such individuals. They are creatures of habit, yet their behavior can be unpredictable, as if they are privy to secrets beyond mortal comprehension. A cat's purr is said to soothe the soul, while its hiss can send shivers down the spine of even the bravest adventurer.

Cats are most commonly encountered in urban settings, where they slink through alleyways and perch upon rooftops, observing the world with a detached curiosity. However, they are equally at home in the wild, where they stalk through forests and fields, their presence often unnoticed until they choose to reveal themselves. Legends speak of cats as guardians of the threshold between worlds, able to slip between the veil of reality and the realms beyond. It is said that a cat's gaze can pierce the veil of illusion, seeing truths hidden from human eyes.

In the annals of lore, cats are often associated with luck and fortune, both good and ill. A black cat crossing one's path is a portent of misfortune, while a cat that chooses to sit upon one's lap is a sign of favor from the fates. Some tales tell of cats as the familiars of ancient sorcerers, their lives intertwined with the magic of their masters. Others speak of cats as the reincarnations of lost souls, wandering the earth in search of redemption or revenge.

As you venture forth into the unknown, keep a wary eye for the flicker of a tail or the glint of eyes in the darkness. For the cat is ever watchful, a silent sentinel of the mysteries that lie beyond the ken of mortal men.

Cat Skills & Traits

Skills

• Perception +3
• Stealth +4

Senses

• Passive Perception 13

Languages

• --

Abilities

• Keen Smell: The cat has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on smell.

Actions

• Claws: Melee Weapon Attack: +0 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1 slashing damage.

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Battle Tips for Cats

Cats may not seem like formidable opponents at first glance, but their agility, stealth, and cunning can make them surprisingly challenging foes in the right circumstances. Here are some tips for incorporating cats into your battles as a dungeon master:

Using Cats in Battle

• Stealth and Surprise: Cats are masters of stealth. Use them to ambush unsuspecting adventurers. They can hide in shadows or high places, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
• Agility and Evasion: Cats are incredibly agile. They can dodge attacks with ease and quickly reposition themselves. Use this to frustrate players and keep them on their toes.
• Distraction Tactics: A cat can serve as a distraction, drawing attention away from more significant threats. Use them to lead players into traps or away from critical objectives.

Coordinated Cat Attacks

• Pack Tactics: While a single cat may not pose a significant threat, a group of cats can overwhelm opponents with coordinated attacks. Use their numbers to your advantage, surrounding and isolating players.
• Divide and Conquer: Cats can work together to separate party members, isolating weaker targets. Use their speed and agility to split the group and pick off stragglers.
• Retreat and Regroup: If the battle turns against them, cats can quickly retreat and regroup. Use this to prolong encounters and wear down players over time.

Fleeing and Survival

• Escape Routes: Cats are excellent at finding escape routes. Use this to your advantage by having them flee through small openings or climb to safety when the battle becomes too dangerous.
• Feigning Weakness: A cat might pretend to be injured or weak to lure players into a false sense of security before launching a surprise counterattack.
• Using the Environment: Cats can use their surroundings to their advantage, climbing trees, hiding in tall grass, or using urban environments to lose pursuers.

By leveraging their natural abilities and instincts, cats can become a memorable and challenging part of any encounter. Whether used as a minor nuisance or a cunning adversary, they can add depth and excitement to your campaign.