Nereus Old Man of the Sea

Few would ever believe that helping the elderly comes with the risk of danger, and fewer still would dispute the morality of helping an elder in need. But several bright hero's with strong potential have lost their lives for just such a reason, courtesy of the cold and clammy grip of the water spirts called the nereus.   Burden in Disguise The nereus are a group of deceptive elementals whose true form is that of an opaque cloud of mist, but which lure and deceive travelers in the form of an elderly individual, usually of the same race as the traveler. The nereus uses this apparent venerability to ask for assistance, usually in crossing a nearby stream, requiring the traveler to carry the nereus on its shoulders. But once sitting astride their unsuspecting victim, the nereus uses its incredible strength to remain there despite the victim's efforts to remove it, magically prodding and commanding its new servant to follow every order it gives. The nerus's only thought is for its own needs, and a nereus will often overwork its "steed" to the point of death by exhaustion, refusing to let them eat, drink, or even sleep.   Removing a Pest Once it has attached itself, removing a nereus can be incredibly difficult, but not impossible. The nereus might be strong, but someone even stronger might be able to remove the nereus from its position, leaving it much more vulnerable. Tricking the nereus, whether through cunning or magic, is also possible. Traveling groups, when at risk of losing a companion, often panic and make the mistake of attempting to attack the nereus outright. But with total control of its new ride, the nereus often deflects blows meant for itself with the body of its attacker's own companion, causing serious injury or even death for the creature it rides. When faced with nereus, the best course of action is simply to remain calm and outthink the situation, using less violent means to remove the nereus from its perch. But even when pulled back to the ground, the nereus remains dangerous, capable of exhaling powerful belches of putrid smells strong enough to stagger its opponents for just a moment - long enough for the nereus to once again grab hold of its previous victim, or another that might be nearby.