Gargoyle

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Gargoyle Introduction

In the dim light of the waning moon, as shadows stretch and dance across the ancient stonework of forgotten ruins, the air grows heavy with an unsettling stillness. It is here, amidst the crumbling vestiges of a bygone era, that the gargoyle makes its lair. These fearsome creatures, carved from the very rock they inhabit, are as much a part of the architecture as the stones themselves. Their grotesque visages, frozen in eternal snarls, seem to watch with unblinking eyes, waiting for the unwary to draw near.

The gargoyle's appearance is a chilling blend of beast and stone, with leathery wings folded tightly against its back, and talons sharp enough to rend flesh from bone. Its skin, a mottled gray, is as hard and unyielding as the granite from which it was hewn. Horns curve menacingly from its brow, and its eyes, though seemingly lifeless, glint with a malevolent intelligence. When it moves, it does so with a fluid grace that belies its stony exterior, a predator in every sense of the word.

Gargoyles are creatures of cunning and patience, often lying in wait for days, even weeks, before striking. They are fiercely territorial, defending their chosen domain with a ferocity that few can match. Legends speak of these creatures as guardians, protectors of sacred places, though whether they serve willingly or are bound by some ancient magic is a matter of debate among scholars. Some tales even suggest that gargoyles are the petrified remains of ancient demons, cursed to remain in their stone forms until the end of days.

Their preferred habitat is one of desolation and decay, where the echoes of the past linger like ghosts. Abandoned castles, crumbling cathedrals, and forgotten fortresses are their favored haunts, places where the veil between the material world and the arcane is thin. It is said that on nights when the moon is full, the gargoyles come to life, prowling the ruins in search of intruders to drive away or devour.

As you stand before the silent sentinels, a chill runs down your spine, for you know that these creatures are more than mere statues. They are the embodiment of the darkness that lurks in the heart of every ruin, a reminder that some secrets are best left undisturbed. Tread carefully, adventurer, for the gargoyle is ever watchful, and its wrath is as unyielding as the stone from which it was born.

Gargoyle Skills & Traits

Skills

• Stealth +2

Senses

• Darkvision 60 ft.
• Passive Perception 10

Languages

• Terran

Abilities

• Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from Nonmagical Attacks that aren't Adamantine
• Damage Immunities: Poison
• Condition Immunities: Exhaustion, Petrified, Poisoned
• False Appearance: While the gargoyle remains motionless, it is indistinguishable from an inanimate statue.

Actions

• Multiattack: The gargoyle makes two attacks: one with its bite and one with its claws.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
• Claws: Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage.

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Battle Tips for Gargoyles

Gargoyles are formidable opponents in any dungeon setting, known for their stony resilience and ability to blend into their surroundings. Here are some strategic tips for dungeon masters to effectively utilize gargoyles in battle:

Utilizing Gargoyles in Battle

• Ambush Tactics: Gargoyles can remain motionless and blend in with stone structures, making them perfect for surprise attacks. Position them in areas where adventurers are likely to lower their guard, such as near statues or architectural features.
• High Ground Advantage: Use their ability to fly to position gargoyles on ledges or rooftops. This not only gives them a tactical advantage but also allows them to swoop down on unsuspecting adventurers.
• Durability: With their natural stone-like armor, gargoyles can absorb a significant amount of damage. Use them to draw fire away from more vulnerable creatures or to hold choke points.

Coordinated Attacks with Multiple Gargoyles

• Pack Tactics: Gargoyles can work together to overwhelm opponents. Use them in groups to flank and surround adventurers, cutting off escape routes and dividing their attention.
• Divide and Conquer: Have some gargoyles engage the party head-on while others use their flight to attack from behind or above, creating chaos and confusion.
• Retreat and Regroup: If the battle turns against them, gargoyles can use their flight to retreat to higher ground or inaccessible areas, regroup, and plan a counterattack.

Fleeing and Tactical Withdrawal

• Feigning Retreat: Gargoyles can pretend to retreat, luring adventurers into a trap or more advantageous position for a counterattack.
• Using Terrain: Leverage the environment to escape. Gargoyles can fly to unreachable areas or blend into the stonework to evade pursuers.
• Reinforcements: If the battle is going poorly, gargoyles can retreat to call for reinforcements, returning with additional allies to turn the tide.

By employing these strategies, dungeon masters can create challenging and memorable encounters with gargoyles, testing the tactical acumen of any adventuring party.