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Benevolent Bramblebeasts

—

by

Dale
in

From: Zephyrheart Menagerie

Large, gentle beings resembling walking, sentient thickets, Bramblebeasts are protective creatures that cultivate life within the dungeon. They have the ability to manipulate vines and foliage, creating living barriers or bridges when needed. A Bramblebeast may bond with a character, allowing them to tap into the botanical magic of the dungeon.

The Lore of Zephyrheart Menagerie Benevolent Bramblebeasts:

In the heart of the Zephyrheart Menagerie, a mystical dungeon shrouded in enchantment, resides the Benevolent Bramblebeasts. These majestic creatures are a harmonious fusion of nature’s magic and ancient guardian spirits. Legends speak of a time when the dungeon itself was a barren land, devoid of life, until the arrival of the Bramblebeasts.

These sentient thickets, towering and serene, are not ordinary flora, but rather manifestations of the dungeon’s essence. It’s believed that they were birthed from the convergence of powerful elemental forces and the benevolent intentions of nature itself. The Bramblebeasts’ prime purpose is to foster life within the dungeon’s confines and to protect its delicate equilibrium.

Traits and Abilities:

  • Vine Manipulation: The Bramblebeasts possess an innate connection with the very vines and foliage that thrive within the dungeon. They can manipulate these natural elements, shaping them into living barriers, sturdy bridges, or even intricate pathways. This ability not only aids them in their protective duties but also offers them a means of communication and interaction.
  • Guardians of Balance: These gentle giants act as the custodians of the dungeon’s delicate balance. They sense disturbances in the dungeon’s natural flow and swiftly respond to any threats that may disrupt the harmonious coexistence of life within.
  • Bonds of Botanical Magic: A unique aspect of the Bramblebeasts is their ability to form bonds with characters who prove themselves worthy. These bonds grant individuals access to the dungeon’s latent botanical magic. Characters under this bond gain an intuitive understanding of plant life, enabling them to harness the power of vines and foliage for various purposes.

Level One Stats and Skills:

  • Size: Large
  • Health: 150
  • Mana: 50
  • Agility: 3/10
  • Strength: 6/10
  • Intelligence: 8/10

Skills:

  • Vine Grasp (Basic): Summons vines to entangle enemies, immobilizing them temporarily.
  • Photosynthesis Attunement (Passive): Recovers mana slowly when exposed to natural light sources.
  • Botanical Insight (Active): Shares knowledge of the dungeon’s plants, revealing hidden paths and resources.

Strategy and Attacks: Bramblebeasts prioritize defense and support, using their vine manipulation to control the battlefield. They create barriers to shield allies and immobilize foes, while also offering strategic advantages by creating temporary bridges or paths over hazardous terrain. Their bond with characters allows for synergistic combinations of magical and physical attacks.

Vulnerabilities: While Bramblebeasts are formidable protectors, their massive size can make them relatively slow-moving targets. Additionally, they’re susceptible to fire-based attacks, as their affinity with plant life leaves them vulnerable to flames.

Tags: Guardian, Plant Elemental, Supportive Entity, Nature-Aligned

Engagement in Battle: Benevolent Bramblebeasts approach battle with a combination of strategic positioning and nature’s power. When confronted by threats, they utilize their vine manipulation abilities to control the flow of combat. Their tactics involve creating barriers to shield allies from enemy attacks and using vines to immobilize adversaries, rendering them temporarily incapacitated.

In offensive situations, Bramblebeasts employ their “Vine Grasp” ability to ensnare enemies, limiting their mobility and rendering them vulnerable to attacks. They may also manipulate the surrounding foliage to whip or strike opponents from a distance. Their ability to create living bridges and pathways allows for swift repositioning on the battlefield, enabling them to take advantage of the terrain.

Sounds and Environment: In their natural habitat within the Zephyrheart Menagerie, the Bramblebeasts contribute to the symphony of nature. They emit deep, resonant rustling sounds akin to leaves in the wind, creating a soothing and enchanting atmosphere. During battle, their sounds become more intense and rhythmic, mirroring their focused determination to protect the dungeon and its inhabitants.

These creatures thrive in the heart of the Menagerie, an ethereal realm teeming with lush vegetation, vibrant flora, and the harmonious convergence of elements. The dungeon’s environment is a blend of ancient ruins and lush gardens, with towering trees and sparkling streams. The Bramblebeasts are integral to maintaining this unique ecosystem.

Remains and Utilization: When a Benevolent Bramblebeast eventually passes away, their remains hold intrinsic value to those who understand their connection to nature’s magic. The wood from their thickets contains residual botanical energy, making it highly sought after by alchemists and enchanters. Craftsmen can fashion potent wands and staves from their wood, imbued with the ability to control vines and manipulate plant life to a lesser extent.

Their leaves, infused with the essence of the dungeon, can be dried and ground into powders used for enhancing potions or creating enchanted inks. The remains of a Bramblebeast are treated with reverence, as they embody the enduring legacy of nature’s guardianship and the dungeon’s enchantment.

Senses Perceived When Encountering a Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Sight
    • Perception: A towering, humanoid figure composed of interwoven vines, foliage, leaves, flowers, and small branches. Its appearance is both majestic and serene, exuding an ancient and wise presence.
    • Description: The Bramblebeast’s vibrant green leaves and colorful flowers create a lush, almost otherworldly aura. The creature’s body is a blend of various plant elements, forming a harmonious and intricate design that moves with a gentle grace. Its eyes, deep within the thicket, glow with a soft, calming light, reflecting its benevolent nature.
    • Positives: The sight of a Bramblebeast is awe-inspiring and enchanting, evoking a sense of peace and harmony with nature.
    • Negatives: Its massive size and intricate appearance might be intimidating to some, especially those unfamiliar with its gentle nature.
  • Sound
    • Perception: A symphony of rustling leaves, creaking branches, and the occasional soft hum of energy.
    • Description: The Bramblebeast emits deep, resonant rustling sounds as it moves, reminiscent of leaves in the wind. During moments of heightened activity, such as using its abilities, the sound becomes more rhythmic and intense, like the heartbeat of a forest.
    • Positives: The natural sounds are soothing and contribute to the creature’s calming presence.
    • Negatives: In the silence of a dungeon, the sounds can be startling, and the rhythmic intensification during action might be perceived as a warning or threat.
  • Smell
    • Perception: A blend of fresh, earthy scents with hints of floral and botanical fragrances.
    • Description: The Bramblebeast carries the aroma of a thriving forest, with the rich, damp scent of earth mingling with the delicate fragrances of flowers and leaves. This smell is strongest near the creature, creating an enveloping sensory experience.
    • Positives: The pleasant and invigorating smells are reminiscent of a healthy, vibrant ecosystem, offering a sense of rejuvenation.
    • Negatives: The strong botanical scent can be overpowering for those sensitive to strong smells, potentially causing discomfort or allergic reactions.
  • Touch
    • Perception: A mixture of soft, velvety leaves and rough, sturdy branches.
    • Description: Touching the Bramblebeast reveals a complex texture, with soft, smooth foliage interspersed with the hard, bark-like feel of its branches. The vines can be surprisingly flexible and strong, responding gently to touch.
    • Positives: The tactile experience can be grounding and comforting, connecting individuals to nature.
    • Negatives: The rougher parts may cause minor scratches or discomfort, and the density of the foliage can obscure potential hazards.
  • Taste
    • Perception: Generally not applicable, but if one were to taste elements of the Bramblebeast, it might have a fresh, herbal flavor.
    • Description: N/A (The Bramblebeast is not typically a creature one would taste.)
  • Extra-Sensory Perceptions
    • Perception: A deep sense of tranquility and ancient wisdom, with a subtle aura of magical energy.
    • Description: Being near a Bramblebeast imparts an almost tangible feeling of peace and balance, as if one is in the presence of an ancient guardian. Those attuned to magic can sense a steady flow of botanical energy, emanating from the creature and influencing its surroundings.
    • Positives: The creature’s presence can have a calming and centering effect, enhancing meditation and magical practices. Its bond with individuals grants them access to botanical magic, fostering a deeper connection to the dungeon’s flora.
    • Negatives: Sensitive individuals might feel overwhelmed by the intense energy, leading to sensory overload or unease. The magical aura could attract unwanted attention from other magical entities or creatures within the dungeon.

Encountering a Benevolent Bramblebeast is a multi-sensory experience that highlights the harmonious blend of nature and magic within the Zephyrheart Menagerie. The positives generally outweigh the negatives, provided one approaches the creature with respect and understanding.

Tale of the Gentle Guardians

Long ago, in a time shrouded in mist and mystery, there were creatures born of the very heart of the earth. These creatures, known as the Bramblebeasts, were said to be the guardians of life and nature. In a dungeon deep within the land of Zephyrheart Menagerie, they found their home. The dungeon was barren, a place where no plant grew, and no life thrived.

One day, a great storm arose, filled with magic and the fury of the elements. From this storm, the first Bramblebeasts emerged, their bodies woven from vines and foliage, their hearts beating with the essence of the forest. The dungeon, once lifeless, began to bloom with vibrant plants and flowers. Streams of sparkling water flowed, and the air was filled with the scent of fresh earth and blooming flowers.

The Bramblebeasts were not mere beasts; they were the spirits of the forest given form. They could shape the vines and plants with their will, creating bridges and barriers, protecting the fragile life that had begun to flourish. They were gentle and kind, guiding the lost and protecting the weak.

In the days of old, a hero entered the dungeon, seeking to conquer its depths. The hero was strong and brave but lacked wisdom. He fought the creatures of the dungeon, thinking them foes. When he came upon a Bramblebeast, he drew his sword to strike it down. But the Bramblebeast did not fight; it raised its vines in defense and spoke in a language older than time.

The hero paused, realizing that the creature meant no harm. He lowered his sword and listened. The Bramblebeast showed him the beauty of the dungeon, the life it had brought forth. The hero learned to respect the balance of nature, to see the harmony that the Bramblebeasts protected. He formed a bond with them, gaining the power to command the vines and plants.

Together, the hero and the Bramblebeasts defended the dungeon from those who would harm it. They became legends, their tale passed down through the ages. The dungeon flourished, a sanctuary of life and magic, guarded by the gentle giants of the forest.

Moral of the Story: Respect the harmony of nature, for it is a fragile balance. In understanding and protecting it, one finds true strength and wisdom.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Characteristics:
    • STR: 80
    • CON: 70
    • SIZ: 90
    • DEX: 30
    • INT: 60
    • POW: 80
  • Hit Points: 16
  • Magic Points: 16
  • Sanity Loss: 0/1d4 (Witnessing a Bramblebeast in action can be unsettling, but not sanity-shattering.)
  • Skills:
    • Botany: 90%
    • Natural World: 80%
    • Spot Hidden: 50%
    • First Aid: 60%
  • Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: The Bramblebeast can control vines and foliage within a 30-foot radius, creating barriers or bridges, and can entangle a target (STR vs. STR roll).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: The Bramblebeast regenerates 1 HP per hour when exposed to natural light.
    • Botanical Insight: The Bramblebeast can reveal hidden paths and resources within a natural environment with a successful Botany roll.
  • Combat:
    • Vine Grasp: Entangles a target, immobilizing them for 1d4 rounds (1d6 damage per round if resisted).
    • Branch Slam: 1d8+1 damage.
    • Armor: 2 points of natural armor due to its thick, bark-like skin.

Blades in the Dark

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Type: Large Magical Creature
  • Tier: III
  • Harm: 6 (serious), 8 (desperate)
  • Attributes:
    • Strength: 3
    • Prowess: 1
    • Resolve: 2
  • Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: Can create barriers or bridges, or entangle enemies. Requires a resistance roll or action roll to break free.
    • Botanical Insight: Can sense hidden pathways and resources in natural environments.
    • Guardians of Balance: Reacts to disturbances in the environment and protects the balance of nature. Gains potency when defending natural areas.
  • Special Abilities:
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: Regenerates 1 stress per downtime activity when exposed to natural light.
    • Entangle: Can use its vines to immobilize a target for one action or until they take stress to break free.

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Large Plant, Neutral Good
  • Armor Class: 14 (natural armor)
  • Hit Points: 150 (20d10+40)
  • Speed: 20 ft.
  • STR: 18 (+4)
  • DEX: 8 (-1)
  • CON: 14 (+2)
  • INT: 12 (+1)
  • WIS: 16 (+3)
  • CHA: 10 (+0)
  • Skills: Perception +7, Nature +6
  • Damage Vulnerabilities: Fire
  • Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing
  • Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened
  • Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 17
  • Languages: Sylvan, understands Common but cannot speak
  • Challenge: 7 (2,900 XP)
  • Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: As an action, the Bramblebeast can create a 30-foot long, 5-foot wide bridge or barrier of vines that lasts for 1 hour. It can also use this ability to entangle creatures within 30 feet (DC 15 Strength saving throw to escape).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: The Bramblebeast regains 5 hit points at the start of its turn if it is exposed to sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: The Bramblebeast can cast Commune with Nature at will, requiring no components.
  • Actions:
    • Multiattack: The Bramblebeast makes two Branch Slam attacks.
    • Branch Slam: Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 18 (3d8+4) bludgeoning damage.
    • Vine Grasp: The Bramblebeast targets one creature it can see within 30 feet. The target must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be restrained for 1 minute. The restrained target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success.

Knave

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • HD: 8 (48 HP)
  • Armor: Thick Bark (equivalent to Chain, Defense 14)
  • Move: 20 ft.
  • STR: +2
  • DEX: -1
  • CON: +2
  • INT: +1
  • WIS: +3
  • CHA: +0
  • Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: Can control vines and plants within a 30-foot radius. This can be used to create barriers or entangle enemies. Entangled enemies must make a successful STR save to break free.
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: Heals 1d6 HP per hour in sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: Can reveal hidden paths and resources in natural environments, giving a +2 bonus to navigation and survival checks in such areas.
  • Attacks:
    • Branch Slam: +2 to hit, 1d10+2 damage
    • Vine Grasp: Entangles a target, who must succeed on a STR save or be immobilized. Immobilized targets can attempt a STR save at the end of each turn to escape.
  • Notes:
    • Fire Vulnerability: Takes double damage from fire attacks.
    • Nature’s Guardian: The Bramblebeast will always prioritize defending natural areas and creatures, intervening against those who seek to harm them.

Fate

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Aspects:
    • High Concept: Guardian of Nature’s Harmony
    • Trouble: Vulnerable to Fire
    • Aspect: Gentle Giant of the Dungeon
    • Aspect: Master of Vine Manipulation
    • Aspect: Botanical Insight
  • Skills:
    • Good (+3): Nature Manipulation
    • Fair (+2): Endurance, Perception
    • Average (+1): Athletics, Empathy
  • Stunts:
    • Vine Grasp: Once per scene, the Bramblebeast can create a barrier or entangle an opponent using vines. This requires an Overcome action using Nature Manipulation with a +2 bonus.
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: When exposed to sunlight, the Bramblebeast recovers one additional stress box per scene.
    • Botanical Insight: The Bramblebeast can always find hidden paths or resources in natural environments, giving it a +2 to Create an Advantage using Perception.
  • Stress and Consequences:
    • Stress: ❏❏❏
    • Consequences: Mild (2), Moderate (4), Severe (6)

Numenera & Cypher System

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Level: 5
  • Might: 18
  • Speed: 8
  • Intellect: 15
  • Armor: 2
  • Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation (4 Intellect points): The Bramblebeast can manipulate vines and foliage within a 50-foot radius to create barriers or bridges, or entangle enemies (Level 5 effect).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: The Bramblebeast regains 1d6 Might points per hour when exposed to natural light.
    • Botanical Insight: The Bramblebeast can sense hidden paths and resources within natural environments, providing an asset on navigation and exploration tasks.
  • Attacks:
    • Branch Slam: 7 points of damage
    • Vine Grasp: Entangles a target, who must succeed on a Level 5 Speed defense roll to avoid being immobilized for one round.
  • Special Abilities:
    • Guardians of Balance: The Bramblebeast can sense and respond to disturbances in the natural environment, gaining an asset on all perception and defense tasks in natural settings.

Pathfinder

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Large Plant
  • Hit Dice: 12d8+24 (78 HP)
  • Initiative: +1
  • Speed: 20 ft.
  • Armor Class: 17 (natural armor)
  • Base Attack/Grapple: +9/+17
  • Attack: Branch Slam +12 melee (2d8+6)
  • Full Attack: 2 Branch Slams +12 melee (2d8+6)
  • Space/Reach: 10 ft./10 ft.
  • Special Attacks: Vine Grasp
  • Special Qualities: Plant traits, photosynthesis attunement, botanical insight
  • Saves: Fort +10, Ref +5, Will +6
  • Abilities: STR 22, DEX 12, CON 14, INT 10, WIS 16, CHA 8
  • Skills: Perception +14, Knowledge (nature) +11
  • Feats: Power Attack, Improved Grapple, Combat Reflexes, Great Fortitude
  • Environment: Any dungeon or forest
  • Organization: Solitary or paired
  • Challenge Rating: 8
  • Treasure: None
  • Alignment: Neutral Good
  • Special Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: As a standard action, the Bramblebeast can create barriers or bridges within 30 feet, or entangle enemies (DC 18 Reflex save to avoid).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: The Bramblebeast heals 5 HP per hour when exposed to sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: The Bramblebeast can detect hidden paths and resources within natural environments, granting a +2 bonus on Knowledge (nature) and Survival checks.

Savage Worlds

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Attributes:
    • Agility d4
    • Smarts d8
    • Spirit d8
    • Strength d12
    • Vigor d10
  • Skills:
    • Fighting d8
    • Notice d8
    • Survival d10
    • Pace: 4
    • Parry: 6
    • Toughness: 10 (2)
  • Special Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: The Bramblebeast can create barriers, bridges, or entangle enemies within 6 squares. This requires a successful Spirit roll. Entangled targets must make an Agility roll at -2 to escape.
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: The Bramblebeast regenerates 1 wound per hour when exposed to sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: The Bramblebeast gains a +2 bonus to Survival and Notice rolls in natural environments.
    • Large: Attackers gain a +2 to hit the Bramblebeast due to its size.
    • Weakness (Fire): The Bramblebeast takes +4 damage from fire attacks.
  • Attacks:
    • Branch Slam: Str+d8
    • Vine Grasp: Entangles a target, causing no damage but immobilizing them. Targets can break free with a successful Strength roll at -2.

Shadowrun (6th Edition)

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Attributes:
    • Body: 8
    • Agility: 2
    • Reaction: 3
    • Strength: 10
    • Willpower: 6
    • Logic: 4
    • Intuition: 5
    • Charisma: 2
    • Edge: 1
    • Essence: 6
    • Initiative: 8 + 1d6
    • Movement: 6/12 (walking)
    • Condition Monitor (Physical): 13
    • Condition Monitor (Stun): 11
    • Armor: 4 (natural armor)
  • Skills:
    • Athletics: 5
    • Perception: 6
    • Survival: 6
  • Powers:
    • Vine Manipulation: Can control vines and plants within a 20-meter radius. This can be used to entangle enemies (Opposed Strength + Body Test to break free).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: Heals 1 Physical damage every 10 minutes when exposed to sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: Gains a +2 dice pool modifier for Survival and Perception tests in natural environments.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Fire Vulnerability: Takes double damage from fire-based attacks.
  • Attacks:
    • Branch Slam: (Close Combat) 10P, AP –2
    • Vine Grasp: (Close Combat) Entangles the target. The target must succeed in an Opposed Strength + Body Test to break free.

Starfinder

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • CR: 8
  • XP: 4,800
  • Type: Large Plant
  • Init: +1
  • Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., low-light vision, Perception +16
  • Defense:
    • HP: 120
    • EAC: 20
    • KAC: 22
    • Fort: +12
    • Ref: +7
    • Will: +11
    • Defensive Abilities: Plant immunities, vulnerable to fire
  • Offense:
    • Speed: 20 ft.
    • Melee: Branch Slam +18 (2d8+10 B)
    • Special Attacks: Vine Grasp (entangle, DC 18)
  • Statistics:
    • STR: +5
    • DEX: +1
    • CON: +4
    • INT: +2
    • WIS: +5
    • CHA: +0
  • Skills: Athletics +18, Survival +21, Perception +16
  • Languages: Sylvan, understands Common but cannot speak
  • Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: The Bramblebeast can manipulate vines and plants within a 30-foot radius to create barriers or bridges. Entangle ability (DC 18 Reflex save to avoid).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: Heals 5 HP per hour when exposed to sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: Gains a +2 insight bonus on Survival and Perception checks in natural environments.

Traveller

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • UPP: A65876
  • Attributes:
    • Strength: A (10)
    • Dexterity: 6
    • Endurance: 8
    • Intelligence: 5
    • Education: 7
    • Social Standing: 6
  • Skills:
    • Athletics (Strength): 2
    • Recon: 1
    • Survival: 2
    • Melee (Unarmed): 1
    • Armor: 2 (natural armor)
  • Special Abilities:
    • Vine Manipulation: Can manipulate vines and plants within a 30-meter radius. Entangles enemies (Opposed STR check to break free).
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: Heals 1 Endurance per hour when exposed to sunlight.
    • Botanical Insight: Gains DM+1 on Survival and Recon checks in natural environments.
  • Attacks:
    • Branch Slam: 3D damage
    • Vine Grasp: Entangles the target. The target must succeed in an Opposed STR check to break free.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Fire Vulnerability: Takes double damage from fire-based attacks.

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (4th Edition)

Benevolent Bramblebeast

  • Characteristics:
    • WS: 45
    • BS: 0
    • S: 55 (5)
    • T: 50 (5)
    • I: 30
    • Ag: 20
    • Dex: 25
    • Int: 40
    • WP: 45
    • Fel: 10
    • W: 30
  • Skills:
    • Athletics (S): 55
    • Perception (I): 40
    • Survival (I): 50
  • Traits:
    • Large: +1 to be hit, +1 Damage
    • Armour (2) Natural: 2 AP
    • Photosynthesis Attunement: Regains 1 Wound every hour when exposed to sunlight.
    • Vine Manipulation: Can manipulate vines and plants within a 30-yard radius. Entangle enemies (Athletics or Melee Brawling Test to break free).
    • Botanical Insight: Gains +10 to Survival and Perception tests in natural environments.
  • Attacks:
    • Branch Slam (Melee): Damage +9
    • Vine Grasp: Entangles target. Target must pass an Athletics or Melee Brawling Test to escape.
  • Special Rules:
    • Fire Vulnerability: Takes +4 damage from fire-based attacks.