Tidal Blades
Leaping over a boulder and jumping a thin stream of lava, Caiman came face to face with the lumbering droska. The large insect, unnerved by Caiman's rapid approach, scampered to the side, wandering toward the largest lava pool.
Giant beetles commonly domesticated as beasts of burden by Stoenians, droska are known for being fairly harmless, easy to handle, and able to pull trading caravans across long distances with ease. They are, however, incredibly hard to ride—it's nearly impossible to stay on top of a speeding beetle without falling—and being a "droska rider" is a rare and acclaimed accomplishment.
Wild droska can be found roaming in large packs throughout the desert. Both domesticated and wild droska are easily spooked, which can sometimes cause them to rampage. A rampaging droska is fast, furious, and blinded by fear, tearing through natural areas, buildings, and living things in its path.
Stoenians who raise and train droska are called droskaniers.
Motive: Safety, food
Environment: Everywhere (domesticated) or some regions of the desert (wild)
Health: 9
Damage Inflicted: Minor wound (3 points)
Armor: 2
Movement: Short; long when rampaging
Modifications: Attacks and Speed defense as level 4 due to quickness; resists riding as level 7
Combat: Droska typically attack only if provoked or threatened. They do piercing damage with their large, pointed horns. Alternatively, they may charge a victim, knocking the foe back a short distance and stunning them for one round.
Interaction: Droska seem to enjoy engaging with other creatures (when they're not scared). Food, in particular, can make an interaction go smoothly. They're not particularly smart, but they are usually compliant, willing, and even able to learn a few commands.
Use: A favorite droska of a Stoenian trader has been stolen, and the trader is seeking someone to help them find the thieves. A nearby town is holding droska races, and one of the PCs feels sure they can make a winning run.
Loot: A domesticated droska likely carries some supplies and 1d6 shells, as well as possibly a cypher.
GM Intrusion: A droska catches one of the character's packs or bits of clothing on its horn, throwing them into the air.