Xorn

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Xorn Introduction

In the dim, echoing caverns beneath the world's surface, where the air is thick with the scent of earth and the shadows dance with the flicker of distant torchlight, there lurks a creature unlike any other. The Xorn, a being of elemental earth, emerges from the stone itself, its form a bizarre amalgamation of rock and flesh. Its body is a rotund mass, almost spherical, with a gaping maw at its apex, lined with jagged, crystalline teeth that glint ominously in the darkness. Three powerful arms extend from its sides, each ending in a cluster of sharp, stony claws capable of rending through solid rock as if it were mere parchment.

The Xorn's skin is a patchwork of mineral hues, a living tapestry of granite grays, obsidian blacks, and the occasional glimmer of precious metals embedded within its hide. Its three eyes, set equidistant around its body, glow with an otherworldly light, granting it a full panoramic view of its subterranean domain. These eyes, unblinking and ever-watchful, seem to pierce through the very fabric of the earth, seeking out the treasures hidden within.

Legends speak of the Xorn as guardians of the deep, protectors of the mineral wealth that lies beneath the surface. It is said that they are drawn to the vibrations of mining and excavation, appearing suddenly to confront those who would plunder their earthen realm. Yet, despite their fearsome appearance, Xorns are not inherently malevolent. They are creatures of simple desires, driven by an insatiable hunger for precious metals and gemstones, which they consume with a fervor unmatched by any other being.

In the depths of the Underdark, where the light of the sun has never touched, the Xorn makes its home. It moves through the stone as easily as a fish swims through water, phasing in and out of the rock with an eerie grace. Adventurers who venture into these realms may find themselves face-to-face with this enigmatic creature, their pockets heavy with the very treasures that the Xorn covets. To encounter a Xorn is to witness the raw, untamed power of the earth itself, a reminder of the mysteries that lie hidden beneath our feet.

Xorn Skills & Traits

Skills

• Perception +5
• Stealth +2

Senses

• Darkvision 60 ft.
• Tremorsense 60 ft.
• Passive Perception 15

Languages

• Terran

Abilities

• Earth Glide: The xorn can burrow through nonmagical, unworked earth and stone. While doing so, the xorn doesn't disturb the material it moves through.
• Stone Camouflage: The xorn has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide in rocky terrain.

Actions

• Multiattack: The xorn makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (3d6 + 4) piercing damage.
• Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.

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Battle Tips for the Xorn

The Xorn is a fascinating and unique creature that can add an unexpected twist to any dungeon encounter. With its ability to phase through earth and stone, it can surprise adventurers and create dynamic combat scenarios. Here are some tips for using the Xorn effectively in battle:

Dungeon Master Strategies

• Element of Surprise: Use the Xorn's ability to move through solid rock to ambush players. It can emerge from the ground or walls, catching adventurers off guard and creating a sense of tension and unpredictability.
• Resource Management: The Xorn's hunger for precious metals and gems can be used to deplete the party's resources. Have the Xorn target characters carrying valuable items, forcing players to make strategic decisions about what to protect.
• Environmental Advantage: Place the Xorn in environments rich with stone and earth, such as caves or underground tunnels. This allows it to utilize its movement abilities to their fullest, retreating into the ground to avoid attacks and re-emerging in advantageous positions.

Coordinated Attacks

• Pack Tactics: If using multiple Xorn, have them coordinate their attacks. One Xorn can engage the party head-on while others flank from different directions, using their phasing ability to bypass obstacles and defenses.
• Divide and Conquer: Use the Xorn's ability to move through stone to separate party members. By isolating characters, the Xorn can focus their attacks on weaker or more vulnerable targets.
• Retreat and Regroup: If the battle turns against them, Xorn can retreat into the earth to regroup. They can then re-emerge at a later time, perhaps with reinforcements or in a more advantageous position.

Fleeing Tactics

• Phased Escape: When the battle is not in their favor, Xorn can use their ability to phase through stone to make a quick escape. This can frustrate players and leave them wondering when the Xorn might return.
• Distraction and Retreat: Use environmental elements, such as collapsing tunnels or falling rocks, to distract the party while the Xorn make their escape. This can add an element of chaos and urgency to the encounter.

By leveraging the Xorn's unique abilities and characteristics, a dungeon master can create memorable and challenging encounters that test the strategic thinking and adaptability of their players.