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Shorlock

CW: Articles regarding Darkspawn contains written descriptions of graphic violence and body horror imagery. Some may find the content disturbing. Discretion is advised.

The swift and deadly Shorlocks are best described as the assassins of the Darkspawn masses. Though this is a slight misnomer as while they are fast, agile, and deadly; they are anything but silent. Commonly referred to as "Shrieks" these beasts are unknown to unleash a hellish scream just an instant before they tear their victims apart with their blades and claws.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Shrieks are relatively thin and give an impression that they are quite frail. While they are not the physically strongest of the darkspawn they are the most agile. Their legs are taut with sinew that allows them to leap great distances with terrifying ease. These creatures long arms taper towards long blade-like claws that can cut armour to ribbons.

Ecology and Habitats

I received a report from a survivor of a bandit attack the other day. I didn't understand why such a report would be brought to me until I read it. I must admit it made me shudder. According to the report, the merchants were travelling at night to avoid tolls - lousy cretins. During the night they stopped for a moment of rest when a howling shriek came from the wood line. Now all manner of beasts this could be, yet apparently by the time the yell was finished, the horses were dead, and the guards were gone in pools of blood. The survivor reports that she ran as fast as she could until daylight. But nothing followed her. She claimed to be terrified. So why was she smiling?   From the Journal of Praeceptor Alexius Guilnius 3rd Month Lindis (Modern dating: -150 Ancient)

Additional Information

Social Structure

The only darkspawn sub-species known to not have an alpha variant. Sometimes seen with Torlocks.

Facial characteristics

Known to have grotesquely long fangs

Average Intelligence

Capable of performing ambush tactics

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Like all darkspawn, Shorlocks are capable of darkvision and seem to prefer being in darkness.

by Artist Unknown

Shorlock CR: 1/2

Medium monstrosity (darkspawn), neutral evil
Armor Class: 15
Hit Points: 15hp (2d8+6) 2d8+6
Speed: 30 ft

STR

11 +0

DEX

17 +3

CON

16 +3

INT

9 -1

WIS

12 +1

CHA

5 -3

Skills: Stealth +5
Damage Vulnerabilities: Radiant
Damage Resistances: Poison
Condition Immunities: Charmed
Senses: Darkvision 60ft., Passive Perception 11
Languages: Understands Common but does not speak
Challenge Rating: 1/2
by Artist Unknown

Assassinate. During its first turn, the shorlock has advantage on attack rolls against any creature that hasn't taken a turn.

Actions

Frenzy. The shorlock wails at one target with its claws. It makes 4 claw attacks against that target.   Leap. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 10ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning damage. On a hit, the target makes a DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.   Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. Hit: 6(1d6+3) piercing damage   Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. Hit: 2 (1d4+0) slashing damage.   Shriek (Recharge 5-6). The shriek emits a haunting scream. All enemies within a 5 foot radius of the shorlock must make a DC 11 Wisdom saving throw or be stunned until the start of the shorlock's next turn.

Often referred to as "Shrieks", shorlocks are fast, agile, and deadly. Shockingly stealthy, they are the assassins of the darkspawn. They will sneak up close to their target, then unleash their scream, and tear their prey to ribbons with fury.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Lifespan
Unknown
Conservation Status
Unknown
Average Height
5' 5"
Average Weight
130lbs
Average Physique
Lithe with sinewy muscle
Geographic Distribution

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