Game Master companion / Monster
Running Manticore
A lion-bodied predator watches through a human face, its dart-bearing tail poised above its back. The tail’s dry barbs contrast with the heavy animal body beneath them.
Prepare the scene
A human face watches from the body of a crouching lion. Behind the mane, the tail rises with a dry rustle of barbs.
A lion-bodied predator watches through a human face, its dart-bearing tail poised above its back. The tail’s dry barbs contrast with the heavy animal body beneath them.
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.
Dart
Use: Basic attack · Dart: Agility + supplemental d8 Wound (piercing), range 40 feet; claws use Might + supplemental d8 Wound (slashing).
Signature abilities
Effect - Signature: Venom after a dart Damaging Hit. Move 35 feet; wings are not assumed by the supplied description.
Counterplay
Counterplay: Cover blocks the ranged advantage; close in while denying its escape.
Relationship
Relationship: Sentient if its humanlike mind is retained; relationship needs confirmation.
Present the counterplay
Cover blocks the ranged advantage; close in while denying its escape.
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 d8, Agility d8, Intellect d6, Tact d6, Spirit d8.
Skill overrides: Block d6, Ward d6.
Resolve 15; Stamina 7; Mana 6. Movement 35 feet.
Player Book idea: Lion-bodied hybrid with a human head and dart-firing tail.