Kaythong

KEYTHONG

 

Rare Heraldic Beast

Frequency: Very Rare

No. Appearing: 1-4

Armor Class: 4

Move: 18"

Hit Dice: 7

% in Lair: 20%

Treasure Type: C

No. of Attacks: 3

Damage/Attack: 1-6 / 1-6 / 2-8

Special Attacks: Pounce

Special Defenses: Surprise only on 1 in 6

Magic Resistance: Standard

Intelligence: Low (5-7)

Alignment: Neutral

Size: L (8' long)

Psionic Ability: Nil

Attack/Defense Modes: Nil

Level/XP Value: V / 525 + 8/hp

Description

The keythong is a rare heraldic beast closely related to the griffon. It possesses the head of a raptor, complete with hooked beak and pointed ears, neck, and massive taloned forelimbs, but the hindquarters of a great lion. Unlike the griffon, it is completely wingless. Keythongs are swift terrestrial predators inhabiting rocky highlands, lonely moors, and ancient borderlands where forgotten kingdoms once stood. Their heraldic significance often leads nobles to adopt them as symbols of vigilance and martial prowess.

Combat

A keythong attacks with two foreclaws and a powerful beak. If it charges at least 30 feet and hits with both claws, it gains an immediate beak attack at +2 to hit and inflicts double damage on the beak strike. This represents the creature hurling its prey to the ground and tearing into it. Also the target must save versus paralysis or be knocked prone and stunned for 1 round. Due to their avian forequarters and feline agility, keythongs may leap up to 9' from standing or 18' running. While leaping it has Maneuverability Class C. This allows it to turn 90 degrees per round, changing its pounce vector.

Special Defenses

A keythong's vigilance is legendary. It is surprised only on a roll of 1 on 1d6, regardless of terrain or lighting conditions. It has a 25% chance to detect invisible creatures within 30'. Invisible creatures do not gain their normal surprise benefits against a keythong.

Ecology

Though often mistaken for wingless griffons, keythongs are a distinct species. They hunt deer, mountain goats, and occasionally horses. Unlike griffons they rarely attack settlements unless provoked or starving. Their feathers, beaks, and talons are prized by heralds, wizards, and noble houses that bear the creature upon their coats of arms. Their eggs are highly priced, reaching values up to 10.000 go for the right buyer.

Training

Just like griffons and hippogriffs, keythongs can be trained with 4 months of intensive work. For carrying capacity purposes treat it as a Medium Warhorse (4,000/6,500 g.p. weight). Upkeep has a cost 200–400 g.p. per month for specialized feed and keepers