Earth Elemental
- Size: Large
- Type: Elemental
- Alignment: Neutral
- AC: 17
- Initiative: -1 (9)
- HP: 147 (14d10 + 70)
- Speed: 30 ft, Burrow 30 ft .
| ATTR | VAL | MOD | SAVE |
|---|---|---|---|
| STR | 20 | +5 | +5 |
| DEX | 8 | -1 | -1 |
| CON | 20 | +5 | +5 |
| INT | 5 | -3 | -3 |
| WIS | 10 | +0 | +0 |
| CHA | 5 | -3 | -3 |
- Vulnerabilities: Thunder
- Immunities: Poison; Exhaustion, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Unconscious
- Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Tremorsense 60 ft.; Passive Perception 10
- Languages: Primordial (Terran)
- CR: 5 (XP 1,800; PB +3)
Traits
Earth Glide. The elemental can burrow through nonmagical, unworked earth and stone. While doing so, the elemental doesn't disturb the material it moves through.
Siege Monster. The elemental deals double damage to objects and structures.
Actions
Multiattack. The elemental makes two attacks, using Slam or Rock Launch in any combination.
Slam. Melee Attack Roll: +8, reach 10 ft . Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) Bludgeoning damage.
Rock Launch. Ranged Attack Roll: +8, range 60 ft. Hit: 8(1d6+5) Bludgeoning damage. If the target is a Large or smaller creature, it has the Prone condition.
Lore & Background
Earth elementals are primordial beings composed of living stone, soil, and mineral matter, embodying the enduring strength and patient power of the earth itself. These creatures originate from the Elemental Plane of Earth, where they exist as manifestations of geological forces and the fundamental stability that underlies all material existence. Earth elementals represent concepts of permanence, strength, and the slow but inexorable power of natural forces.
These elementals are among the most stable and predictable of all elemental beings, reflecting the steady, unchanging nature of stone and earth. They possess ancient wisdom accumulated over eons of existence, understanding the deep rhythms of geological time and the slow processes that shape the world. Earth elementals are often called upon by mortals seeking protection, stability, or assistance with construction and mining projects.
The consciousness of an earth elemental is vast and patient, operating on timescales that dwarf mortal comprehension. They view most conflicts and crises as temporary disturbances in the eternal cycle of earth and stone. This perspective makes them valuable allies for long-term projects but sometimes difficult to motivate for urgent matters that seem insignificant from their geological perspective.
Combat Tactics
Earth elementals are defensive combatants who use their massive strength and natural durability to outlast opponents rather than seeking quick victories. They prefer to fight on solid ground where they can use their earth glide ability to control positioning and create tactical advantages. Their slam attacks deal devastating damage while their ability to move through earth and stone allows them to attack from unexpected directions.
These elementals excel at controlling the battlefield through their connection to the earth, creating difficult terrain, blocking passages, and using their environment to maximum advantage. They are particularly effective in underground or mountainous terrain where their abilities are enhanced and where they can use geological features tactically.
Earth elementals are patient fighters who focus on wearing down opponents through sustained pressure rather than burst damage. They use their damage resistances and natural armor to absorb attacks while positioning themselves for optimal counterattacks. Their connection to the earth allows them to sense vibrations and movement, making them difficult to surprise or outmaneuver.
Encounter Ideas
The Mountain's Guardian: An earth elemental protects a sacred mountain or geological formation from mining, excavation, or other disturbances that threaten its integrity.
The Foundation Builder: An earth elemental assists in construction projects, but its methods and timescale create challenges for mortal builders and architects.
The Geological Crisis: An earth elemental emerges to investigate or respond to earthquakes, volcanic activity, or other geological disturbances that affect its domain.
The Ancient Witness: An earth elemental possesses knowledge about historical events or hidden treasures buried deep in the earth, but accessing this information requires patience and proper approach.
Environmental Effects
Geological Stability: Areas where earth elementals dwell experience reduced seismic activity and enhanced structural integrity in buildings and natural formations.
Mineral Abundance: The elemental's presence can enhance mineral deposits and improve soil quality, benefiting both mining and agricultural activities.
Stone Resonance: Rocky areas near earth elementals exhibit unusual acoustic properties and may show enhanced responsiveness to earth-based magic.
Tectonic Awareness: Earth elementals can sense geological changes and potential natural disasters long before they become apparent to other creatures.
Treasure
Mineral Wealth: Precious stones, rare metals, and valuable minerals that the elemental has collected or that form naturally in its presence.
Geological Specimens: Unique rock formations, crystals, and mineral samples with both scientific and magical value.
Earth Magic Items: Magical items related to protection, strength, and earth manipulation that resonate with the elemental's power.
Ancient Artifacts: Items buried in the earth for centuries or millennia that the elemental has preserved or discovered in its travels.
Plot Hooks
The Unstable Ground: An earth elemental's distress or anger is causing earthquakes and geological instability that threatens nearby communities.
The Deep Excavation: A mining or construction project has disturbed an earth elemental's domain, and resolving the conflict requires understanding both the elemental's needs and the project's importance.
The Elemental Alliance: An earth elemental seeks to form an alliance with surface dwellers to address a threat that affects both the elemental planes and the material world.
The Living Mountain: What appears to be a natural mountain is actually a massive earth elemental, and its awakening or movement could have catastrophic consequences for the surrounding region.