Decempus
Also known as: Tree Roper
An invertebrate the size of a bear with ten tentacle-like limbs
Basic Fantasy Field Guide Omnibus
| Armor Class | 15 |
|---|---|
| Hit Dice | 4+4* |
| Number Appearing | Wild 1 |
| Attacks | Up to 8 whip or grab |
| Damage | 1d4 whip, or 1d2 + bind grab |
| Movement | 30' Climb 90' (trees) |
| Save As | Fighter: 4 |
| Morale | 10 |
| XP | 280 |
| Treasure Type | V |
The Decempus, also known as the “tree roper”, is an invertebrate the size of a bear. It has ten tentacle-like limbs attached to a rotund body. Its large yellow eyes give it a phenomenal peripheral vision. Its large maw opens on a single row of interlocking teeth. It has a rough leathery skin which often matches the color of the trees it hangs from. Often a parasitic moss will grow on top of its head, which will make it ever harder to spot. It moves among trees by using two or more limbs to support itself. If trapped on the ground, it will use four limbs to walk, but could sit and attack with all its remaining limbs if hard pressed.
Special Abilities
Whip and Grab: Normally attacks by alternating whips and grabs motions from each free limb. The whip attack does 1d4 points of damage. The grab attack only does 1d2 points of damage, but the victim finds themself bound. A bound victim has a chance to free themself each round (1+Strength bonus on 1d8). A limb might be severed with 8 points of damage, which do not count against the creature’s hit points.
Constrict: The decempus will typically focus on a single victim, trying to score two grabs to pull it to its maw the next turn, where it will be subject to 1d10 points of damage. Other bound victims will be dragged or thrown around for an automatic 1d4 points of damage.
Swallow: If successful in swallowing a prey, the decempus will try to retreat to the top of the trees where it will rest for up to one week.
Undigested Treasure: The creature is known for accumulating undigested objects that have resisted a save vs. Wands due to the gastric acid.