Grunk


  Grunk Roll Initiative
Large Beast, Unaligned
Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 19 (3d10 + 3)
Speed 30 ft., Climb 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1)
16 (+3)
13 (+1)
4 (-3)
10 (-)
5 (-3)
Saving Throws DEX +5
Damage Vulnerabilities Cold
Senses 30 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages -
Proficiency Bonus +2 Challenge 1/2

Sticky Secretions. The grunk can climb difficult surfaces, including upside down on ceilings, without needing to make an ability check.   Actions
Bite. Melee Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 ( 1d8+1 ) piercing damage.   Claw. Melee Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 ( 1d6+3 ) slashing damage. A creature struck by the grunk's claw must succeed on a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw or be covered in sticky secretions, reducing their speed by half until they spend an action to remove the substance.
"We call a large grouping of grunks a devour, for obvious reasons."

~ General Wermont Lin
Hero of The Demon War
 
Description
The grunk is a formidable desert creature, characterized by its grey and brown scales and white underbelly. Possessing powerful claws that secrete a sticky, adhesive goo, these big lizards can climb walls and cling to ceilings with remarkable ease. In the wild, grunks are known for their territorial and dangerous nature, viewing a normal-sized person as nothing more than a fleeting snack.   In the desert of the Hush, grunks are prized as mounts, though taming them is no small feat. They require careful bonding with their rider and special saddles fitted with rigging to protect from falls. The nimble and gluttonous carnivores are highly sought after, but only those who spend time connecting with the beasts find them safe to ride.

History
Raised by patient and disciplined Malkari in the harsh desert climate of The Hush, grunks are fierce and loyal mounts if trained properly. Their origins remain a mystery, but their presence has been known in the region since its settling. A few specialized ranches are dedicated to raising these proud and dangerous creatures.

Tactics
Grunks typically nest in burrows within the sand or in places where they can stick to ceilings, such as caves. They are heavily territorial, especially when it comes to their young and nests. Encountering a pack of grunks in the wild often leads to a vicious attack, where they slow down the target before gathering their devour and fleeing. If they have a numerical advantage, the adults may stand their ground.   When ridden, grunks are exceptionally responsive, awaiting their rider's command. If clinging to a ceiling or wall, they rely on their bite, not wanting to risk loosening their claws.

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