Lost Company Press
This enormous catfish dwells in murky riverbeds and deep ponds. Its body is covered in slime, which makes it hard to grasp, and its mustache-like barbels are incredibly sensitive to vibrations, helping it detect even the faintest movements in the water. With a gaping mouth large enough to swallow a human whole, the catfish is an apex predator in its watery realm.
Level:
Motive: Territorial dominance and hunger
Environment: Deep freshwater bodies (Ocean)
Health: 9
Damage: 3 points
Armor: 2
Movement: Short in water; does not move on land
Modifications: Sneak attacks as level 5 due to its silent movement in water; Might defense as level 5 due to its size and slippery skin
Combat: The catfish prefers to ambush its prey from below, its mouth opening in a terrifying gulp. Victims hit by this attack must succeed on a Might defense roll or be swallowed whole, suffering an additional moderate wound (6 points) per round until they are freed or manage to cut their way out from the inside.
Interactions: The catfish is not intelligent, acting on instinct. It might be placated with food or distracted by large disturbances in the water.
Uses: A local legend speaks of a monstrous catfish that has claimed the lives of several villagers. Some say it guards ancient treasure in the depths of its lair.
Loot: Pieces of old armor and weapons from past victims can be found within its lair, some possibly of historic or monetary value.
GM Intrusion: The vibrations from the combat stir the silt and mud at the bottom of the water, massively reducing visibility and potentially disorienting the characters.