Game Master companion / Monster
Running Gargoyle
A stone guardian waits in the posture of an ornament until something threatens its charge. Worn wings and talons give its stillness a dangerous shape.
Prepare the scene
Stone grinds against stone overhead. The carved face follows your hand as you reach toward the door.
A stone guardian waits in the posture of an ornament until something threatens its charge. Worn wings and talons give its stillness a dangerous shape.
Establish the surroundings, each participant’s position, and what the party can perceive before resolving the encounter. Use the current core rules for surprise and turn order when combat begins.
Run the profile
Use the following source instructions for the encounter’s actions and effects.
Talons
Use: Basic attack · Talons: Might + supplemental d6 Wound (slashing).
Signature abilities
Effect - Signature: Fly 25 feet. Action: remain motionless and resemble ordinary stone; identifying it is Cunning opposed by Presence d6. No immunity while disguised.
Counterplay
Counterplay: Ask what or whom it guards; physical observation and damage expose the disguise.
Relationship
Relationship: Potential consenting guardian or ally.
Present the counterplay
Ask what or whom it guards; physical observation and damage expose the disguise.
Make the relevant behavior or environmental clues perceptible through the scene so the party can act on them.
Keep the mechanical profile nearby
Affinities: Vitality d4, Might d6, Agility d6, Intellect d4, Tact d4, Spirit d6.
Skill overrides: Evade d4, Ward d4.
Resolve 10; Stamina 5; Mana 4. Movement 20 feet.
Player Book idea: Sentient stone guardian with a dangerous protective instinct.