Clay Golem

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Clay Golem Introduction

In the dim light of the ancient temple, where shadows dance upon the crumbling stone walls, a hulking figure emerges from the depths of the forgotten sanctum. This is the Clay Golem, a formidable construct of earth and magic, standing as a silent sentinel amidst the ruins. Its body, a mass of hardened clay, is sculpted with an unsettling precision, each curve and line a testament to the arcane craftsmanship that birthed it. The golem's surface is etched with intricate runes, glowing faintly with an eerie luminescence, hinting at the powerful enchantments that bind it to this world.

The Clay Golem moves with a ponderous grace, its heavy footsteps echoing through the corridors like distant thunder. Despite its bulk, there is an unsettling fluidity to its movements, as if the clay itself is alive, shifting and reshaping with each step. Its eyes, deep-set and unblinking, burn with an unnatural light, casting a baleful gaze upon all who dare to trespass in its domain. This creature, devoid of emotion and thought, exists solely to fulfill the commands of its creator, an unwavering guardian against any who would seek to disturb the sanctity of its lair.

Legends speak of the Clay Golem as a relic of a bygone era, crafted by ancient sorcerers to serve as protectors of sacred sites and hidden treasures. It is said that these golems were imbued with a fragment of their creator's will, granting them a semblance of life and purpose. Yet, as the centuries passed and their masters faded into obscurity, many of these constructs were left to wander the ruins, their original purpose forgotten, their loyalty unyielding.

The habitat of a Clay Golem is often a place steeped in history and mystery, such as the ruins of a long-lost civilization or the depths of a forgotten crypt. Here, amidst the dust and decay, the golem stands vigil, a silent guardian of secrets long buried. Adventurers who venture into these forsaken places may find themselves face to face with this ancient sentinel, its presence a stark reminder of the power and mystery of the arcane arts.

As you stand before the Clay Golem, the air grows heavy with anticipation, the weight of its gaze pressing down upon you. In this moment, you realize that you are not merely facing a creature of clay and magic, but a living relic of a world that once was, a testament to the enduring legacy of those who wielded the power to shape life from the very earth itself.

Clay Golem Skills & Traits

Skills

• None

Senses

• Darkvision 60 ft.
• Passive Perception 9

Languages

• Understands the languages of its creator but can't speak

Abilities

• Immutable Form: The golem is immune to any spell or effect that would alter its form.
• Magic Resistance: The golem has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
• Magic Weapons: The golem's weapon attacks are magical.

Actions

• Multiattack: The golem makes two slam attacks.
• Slam: Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (2d10 + 5) bludgeoning damage.
• Haste (Recharge 5-6): Until the end of its next turn, the golem can use its Multiattack action with advantage, and its speed is doubled. The golem gains a +2 bonus to AC, has advantage on Dexterity saving throws, and can use an additional action on its turn. When the effect ends, the golem can't move or take actions until after its next turn, as a wave of lethargy sweeps over it.

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Battle Tips for Clay Golem

Clay Golems are formidable constructs often used by dungeon masters to challenge players with their resilience and unique abilities. Here are some tips on how to effectively use Clay Golems in battle:

Using Clay Golems in Battle

• Leverage Their Immunities: Clay Golems are immune to a variety of conditions and damage types, including poison and psychic damage. Use this to your advantage by placing them against spellcasters who rely on these types of attacks.
• Exploit Their Berserk Ability: When a Clay Golem takes damage, there is a chance it may go berserk, attacking the nearest creature indiscriminately. This can be used strategically to disrupt player formations or cause chaos in their ranks.
• Utilize Their Slow Ability: The Clay Golem's ability to slow opponents can be crucial in controlling the battlefield. Use it to hinder fast-moving characters or to prevent players from escaping a dangerous situation.

Coordinating Multiple Clay Golems

• Divide and Conquer: Use multiple Clay Golems to split the party, forcing them to deal with threats on multiple fronts. This can be particularly effective in large, open spaces where the golems can spread out.
• Focus Fire: Have multiple golems target a single, high-value player character to quickly eliminate them from the fight. This can be especially effective against healers or spellcasters.
• Guard Key Areas: Position golems to guard important areas or objectives, making it difficult for players to advance without dealing with them first.

Strategic Retreats

• Controlled Withdrawal: If the battle turns against the golems, have them retreat to a more defensible position, such as a narrow corridor or a room with limited entrances, where they can better control the flow of combat.
• Use Terrain to Advantage: Retreat through difficult terrain or areas that are hazardous to players but not to the golems, such as areas filled with poison gas or psychic traps.

By using these strategies, a dungeon master can effectively challenge players with Clay Golems, creating memorable and engaging encounters.