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Welcome to the A.T.L.A.S. database entry, your comprehensive guide to the fascinating creatures that inhabit the world of Dungeons and Dragons 5e. In this edition, we shed light on the mysterious creature known as the Shrieker. Unearth its unique characteristics, unravel its intriguing behavior, and discover effective strategies for confronting this enigmatic entity. Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer or a curious scholar, this guide will provide valuable insights into the world of Shriekers.
Description:
Prepare yourself for an encounter with the eerie and mystifying Shrieker. These beings resemble oversized fungi, emanating an otherworldly luminescence that pulsates and throbs in the darkness.
Abilities:
Shriekers can emit high-pitched shrieks that can reverberate through the air, disorienting and startling those in close proximity. These sonic vibrations can attract nearby creatures or alert their own kin, creating chaos within their environment.
Although physically weak, Shriekers are highly resilient and capable of regenerating their fungal bodies when damaged: they thrive in dark environments and possess an innate sense that allows them to detect movements and vibrations, making it challenging for intruders to evade their notice.
Threat Level Analysis:
A.T.L.A.S. classifies Shriekers as a low-threat entity, considering their limited physical capabilities and absence of direct offensive abilities. Their Challenge Rating (CR) reflects their minimal combat prowess and relative lack of danger compared to more formidable creatures: their ability to attract attention and potentially alert more dangerous beings should not be underestimated. When encountered in groups or within enclosed spaces, Shriekers can create a formidable obstacle, hindering progress and alerting other creatures to the presence of intruders.
Agents are advised to exercise caution, especially when navigating dark and fungal-infested environments. Employing stealth and avoiding unnecessary disturbances can mitigate encounters with Shriekers and reduce the risk of drawing unwanted attention.
Shrieker’s Stat Block
Medium plant, unaligned
Hit Points 13 (3d8)
Speed Walk 0ft.
STR 1 ( -5)
DEX 1 ( -5)
CON 10 (+ 0)
INT 1 ( -5)
WIS 3 ( -4)
CHA 1 ( -5)
Saving Throws Str -5, Dex -5, Con + 0, Int -5, Wis -4, Cha -5
Skills
Senses blindsight 30 ft. (blind beyond this radius), passive Perception 6
Challenge 0 (10 XP)
False Appearance. While the shrieker remains motionless, it is indistinguishable from an ordinary fungus.
Actions
Shriek. When bright light or a creature is within 30 feet of the shrieker, it emits a shriek audible within 300 feet of it. The shrieker continues to shriek until the disturbance moves out of range and for 1d4 of the shrieker’s turns afterward
Environmental Considerations
Shriekers thrive in specific environments conducive to their survival. They are typically encountered in places with damp conditions, such as underground caverns or dense forests with high humidity. These environments provide the necessary nutrients and moisture for their growth and sustenance.
Confronting the Shrieker:
Engaging with a Shrieker requires a cautious approach, considering its role as an alarm system rather than a direct threat. However, adventurers may need to eliminate or bypass these creatures to navigate through an area undetected or avoid attracting larger, more dangerous creatures. Below are effective strategies for confronting Shriekers:
- Silence Spell: Utilize the Silence spell or other similar magical effects to temporarily suppress the Shrieker’s shrieks. By neutralizing their alarm system, adventurers can safely move through the area without drawing unnecessary attention.
- Distraction Techniques: Employ distraction techniques, such as diverting or luring nearby creatures away from the Shrieker’s location. By redirecting their focus, adventurers can reduce the chances of attracting unwanted attention or triggering a cascade of alarms.
- Stealth and Evasion: Utilize stealth and evasion tactics to bypass Shriekers altogether. Adventurers can navigate through their environment without disturbing these creatures by carefully maneuvering around their established territory and maintaining a quiet approach.
- Controlled Elimination: If the situation necessitates the elimination of the Shriekers, precise and targeted attacks are recommended. Aim for their vulnerable caps, striking swiftly and effectively to neutralize their alarm system without causing unnecessary commotion.
Conclusion:
In this A.T.L.A.S. database entry, we have explored the Shrieker’s intriguing characteristics, behavior, and environmental preferences. By understanding their role as alarm systems and employing effective confrontation strategies, adventurers can navigate their environments safely and minimize the risk of attracting unwanted attention.
Credits
Shrieker is a DnD 5e Creature from the Monster Manual
- Learn more about the Shriekers fungi
- Discover more monsters
