Spica Paludosus, Swamp Horns

Long before the island's kingdoms tore themselves apart in endless conflict, the marshlands were home to primitive reptilian creatures of modest size and temperament, until a cataclysm of clashing mages during the chaotic wars saturated the swampwater itself with residual arcane energy that seeped into eggs and bloodlines for generations. The creatures that hatched from those corrupted nests underwent a terrible metamorphosis—their bodies elongated and hardened, their legs shortened and sharpened into spike-laden pillars, and their spines fused into impenetrable plates as though the magic itself had crystallized around their bones in an attempt to repel the very force that transformed them. Rather than succumb to the overwhelming mystical forces, these proto-Swamp Horns developed an almost parasitic relationship with ambient magic, their auras becoming natural nullifiers that fed upon and neutralized spellcraft, turning them into apex predators in a land where sorcery had become as common as water. Over centuries, their jaws grew longer and more powerful, their horns sharpened into formidable weapons, and their hunting prowess elevated them to nightmarish legends whispered in taverns across the island. The strange biochemistry of their flesh—a byproduct of their magical mutation—renders their meat a hallucinogenic toxin to those foolish enough to consume it, as though the lingering enchantments still writhe within their very muscle and marrow. Now these magnificent and terrible creatures claim dominion over the murky depths, their fangs and hides commanding fortunes from those brave or desperate enough to hunt them, yet few who pursue Spica Paludosus ever truly escape the marshlands unchanged.

Strength

20, modifier 5

Dexterity

14, modifier 2

Constitution

20, modifier 5

Intelligence

2, modifier -4

Wisdom

12, modifier 1

Charisma

1, modifier -5

Bite

Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 3d10 + 5 piercing damage.

Horn Charge

If the Swamp Horn moves at least 20 ft. straight toward a target and hits with a horn attack, it deals an extra 2d6 damage.

Submerge

The Swamp Horn can hide in water, gaining advantage on Stealth checks and becoming invisible until it attacks.

Tail Sweep

The Swamp Horn swings its tail in a 15 ft. cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 3d8 bludgeoning damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one.

Aura of Nullification

Magic within 30 feet is suppressed, causing spells to fail.

Hallucinogenic Flesh

Any creature that consumes its meat must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom save or suffer hallucinations.

strength

8

dexterity

5

constitution

8

Poison

Magic