The Gorothians are fearsome creatures that roam desolate landscapes, leaving destruction in their wake. Their armored skin and sharp tusks make them formidable opponents, and their roar can be heard for miles, striking fear into the hearts of all who hear it.
Gorothian
Large Monstrosity, Chaotic Evil
- Armor Class: 17 (Natural Armor)
- Hit Points: 150 (12d10 + 72)
- Speed: 30 ft.
- STR 22 (+6)
- DEX 10 (+0)
- CON 22 (+6)
- INT 5 (-3)
- WIS 12 (+1)
- CHA 8 (-1)
- Saving Throws: Str +9, Con +9, Wis +4
- Skills: Perception +4, Intimidation +2
- Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
- Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from Nonmagical Attacks
- Damage Immunities: Fire, Poison
- Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened, Poisoned
- Languages: Understands Abyssal but can’t speak
- Challenge Rating: 8 (3,900 XP)
Magic Resistance: The Gorothian has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.Actions
- Multiattack: The Gorothian makes two attacks: one with its bite and one with its claws.
- Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 22 (3d10 + 6) piercing damage.
- Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 18 (3d8 + 6) slashing damage.
Reactions
- Roar of Terror: When a creature within 30 feet of the Gorothian that it can see starts its turn, the Gorothian can let out a terrifying roar. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the start of its next turn.
Description:
Gorothians are large, fearsome monstrosities that stand around 15 feet tall, with muscular, hulking bodies covered in thick, armored skin that resembles cracked, volcanic rock. Their eyes glow with a fiery intensity, and their mouths are filled with razor-sharp tusks and teeth. Long, curved claws extend from their hands, capable of rending through the toughest of armors. Their backs are adorned with jagged spikes, adding to their menacing appearance.
Ecology and Habitat:
Gorothians are typically found in desolate, volcanic regions where the land is scarred by lava flows and ash. They thrive in these harsh environments, their bodies seemingly impervious to the extreme heat and toxic fumes. Gorothians are solitary creatures, each claiming a vast territory that they fiercely defend from any intruders. They are apex predators, hunting anything that dares to enter their domain, from other monstrous creatures to unfortunate adventurers.
Behavior:
Gorothians are highly territorial and aggressive. They are known to attack anything that moves within their sight, using their immense strength and ferocity to overpower their prey. Despite their brutish nature, Gorothians are not mindless; they exhibit a cunning intelligence when hunting, often using the terrain to their advantage. They are also known to be highly resilient, capable of withstanding significant damage before being brought down.
Historical Background:
Legends speak of the Gorothians as ancient guardians of the world’s molten core, creatures born from the very essence of fire and earth. It is said that they were created by a long-forgotten god of destruction, meant to serve as enforcers of his will. Over the millennia, the Gorothians have become symbols of raw, untamed power, feared and respected by all who know of them.
Notable Encounters:
The Siege of Emberfall: A Gorothian was sighted during the infamous Siege of Emberfall, where it single-handedly decimated an entire battalion of soldiers. The creature’s rampage only ended when a group of powerful mages managed to banish it back to its volcanic lair.
The Battle of Ashen Plains: In the Battle of Ashen Plains, a Gorothian was summoned by a desperate warlock to turn the tide of battle. The creature’s presence caused chaos and destruction, but it ultimately turned on its summoner, leading to the warlock’s demise.
Interaction with Environment and Other Creatures:
Gorothians have a profound impact on their environment. Their mere presence can cause the ground to tremble and fissures to open, releasing gouts of flame and smoke. Other creatures in their territory either flee or are hunted down. Gorothians have little interaction with other beings, as their aggressive nature makes them hostile to almost all forms of life.
Lore and Myths:
The Fireborn: Some cultures believe that Gorothians are the progenitors of all fire-based creatures, their essence giving birth to lesser beings like fire elementals and salamanders. The Eternal Guardians: Ancient texts describe the Gorothians as eternal guardians of hidden, fiery realms deep within the earth, protecting treasures and secrets from those who would seek them.
Plot Hooks:
The Awakening: A dormant Gorothian has been awakened by a recent volcanic eruption, threatening nearby settlements. The adventurers must find a way to either pacify or banish the creature before it causes widespread destruction.
The Lost Relic: Legends speak of a powerful artifact hidden within the lair of a Gorothian. The adventurers are tasked with retrieving this relic, but they must first navigate the treacherous volcanic terrain and face the beast itself.
The Summoner’s Bargain: A desperate warlock seeks the adventurers’ help in summoning a Gorothian to aid in a battle against a powerful enemy. The adventurers must decide whether to assist in the summoning and, if so, how to control the creature once it is brought forth.