Manticore
- Size: Large
- Type: Monstrosity
- Alignment: Lawful Evil
- AC: 14
- Initiative: +3 (13)
- HP: 68 (8d10+24)
- Speed: 30 ft, Fly 50 ft.
| ATTR | VAL | MOD | SAVE |
|---|---|---|---|
| STR | 17 | +3 | +3 |
| DEX | 16 | +3 | +3 |
| CON | 17 | +3 | +3 |
| INT | 7 | -2 | -2 |
| WIS | 12 | +1 | +1 |
| CHA | 8 | -1 | -1 |
- Senses: Darkvision 60 ft.; Passive Perception 11
- Languages: Common
- CR: 3 (XP 700; PB +2)
Actions
Multiattack. The manticore makes three attacks, using Rend or Tail Spike in any combination.
Rend. Melee Attack Roll: +5, reach 5 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8+3) Slashing damage.
Tail Spike. Ranged Attack Roll: +5, range 100/200 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8+3) Piercing damage.
Lore & Background
Manticores are fearsome predators with the body of a lion, the wings of a dragon, and a humanoid head filled with rows of sharp teeth. These creatures are known for their cunning intelligence and their ability to launch deadly spikes from their tails. Manticores are solitary hunters that prefer to stalk their prey from above before striking.
Combat Tactics
Manticores use their Tail Spike ranged attacks to weaken enemies before closing for melee combat with their Multiattack. They prefer to fight from elevated positions where they can use their flight to maximum advantage.
Encounter Ideas
Sky Hunter: A manticore stalks caravans from above, picking off isolated travelers. Lair Guardian: A manticore guards a mountain pass or ancient ruins. Escaped Beast: A manticore has escaped from captivity and is now terrorizing the countryside. Intelligent Predator: A manticore uses cunning tactics to hunt more dangerous prey.
Environmental Effects
Manticore territories are marked by scattered bones and spike-riddled trees. Animal populations decline in areas where manticores hunt regularly.
Treasure
Manticores collect shiny objects and may have coins, jewelry, and weapons from their victims scattered around their lairs.
Plot Hooks
The Great Hunt: A manticore is terrorizing a region and a bounty has been placed on its head. Aerial Warfare: Manticores are being used as mounts or weapons in a conflict. The Talking Beast: An unusually intelligent manticore offers information in exchange for favors. Breeding Program: Someone is attempting to breed manticores for use as war beasts.
Lore & Background
Manticores are fearsome predators with the body of a lion, the wings of a dragon, and a humanoid head filled with rows of sharp teeth. These creatures are known for their cunning intelligence and their ability to launch deadly spikes from their tails. Manticores are solitary hunters that prefer to stalk their prey from above before striking with devastating effect.
These creatures are native to mountainous regions and badlands where they can use their flight advantage to hunt effectively. Manticores are intelligent enough to use tactics and strategy, making them far more dangerous than simple beasts.
Combat Tactics
Manticores use their tail spike ranged attacks to weaken enemies before closing for melee combat with their multiattack. They prefer to fight from elevated positions where they can use their flight to maximum advantage, diving down to attack before retreating to safety.
Encounter Ideas
Sky Hunter: A manticore stalks caravans from above, picking off isolated travelers. Lair Guardian: A manticore guards a mountain pass or ancient ruins. Escaped Beast: A manticore has escaped from captivity and is now terrorizing the countryside. Intelligent Predator: A manticore uses cunning tactics to hunt more dangerous prey.
Environmental Effects
Manticore territories are marked by scattered bones and spike-riddled trees. Animal populations decline in areas where manticores hunt regularly.
Treasure
Manticores collect shiny objects and may have coins, jewelry, and weapons from their victims scattered around their lairs.
Plot Hooks
The Great Hunt: A manticore is terrorizing a region and a bounty has been placed on its head. Aerial Warfare: Manticores are being used as mounts or weapons in a conflict. The Talking Beast: An unusually intelligent manticore offers information in exchange for favors. Breeding Program: Someone is attempting to breed manticores for use as war beasts.