The Bloodthorn Creeper is a terrifying predator among the swamps and shadowed jungles of Lestron. Resembling a tangle of dark, blood-red vines and thorny branches, this massive plant creature waits in ambush, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. It uses its powerful vines to lash out at prey, restraining and draining them of vitality with a malevolent thirst.
Feeding primarily on the life essence of animals and adventurers foolish enough to stumble into its lair, the Bloodthorn Creeper serves as a grim reminder of nature’s darker side. Some druids and swampfolk view it as a necessary enforcer of natural balance, while others consider it an unholy abomination. Its uncanny ability to drain life and regenerate makes it a deadly foe for those unprepared to face it.
Blindsight 60 ft. (blind beyond this radius), Passive Perception 13
Languages:
—
CR:
4
(1,100 XP)
Environment:
Jungle, Swamp
Tags:
N/A
Traits
Camouflage. The Bloodthorn Creeper has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide in swampy or forested environments.
Grasping Vines. A creature that starts its turn within 10 feet of the Bloodthorn Creeper must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be restrained by its vines. A restrained creature can use its action to make a DC 14 Strength (Athletics) check to free itself.
Blood Drain. When a creature is restrained by the Bloodthorn Creeper’s vines at the start of its turn, it takes 7 (2d6) necrotic damage, and the Bloodthorn Creeper regains hit points equal to the damage dealt.
Actions
Multiattack. The Bloodthorn Creeper makes two attacks with its thorned vines.
Thorned Vines.Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target.
Hit: 12 (2d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Spreading Roots (Recharge 5–6). The Bloodthorn Creeper causes thorned roots to spread in a 20-foot radius around it. Creatures in the area must succeed on a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw or take 10 (3d6) piercing damage and have their movement speed reduced by half until the end of their next turn.