Griffon

I thought that griffons were like dragons: creatures of myth who adorned the heraldic flags and shields of nobles. But one day, I got to see one. A real griffon, flying high above the summit of Numland Peak. Just as legend said, it had the body of a lion with an eagle’s head, forearms and wings. Out in the far wilds, it was disturbing no one, so for once I got to enjoy a creature in its natural habitat with no contract or reason to hunt and kill it. 

It was large, about 8’ from head to tail and probably about 500 lbs, maybe more, as it was almost as big as a horse. I watched as it soared high in lazy circles, its sharp eyes on the plains below. It caught sight of its prey, a herd of wild beasts. It swooped down with those massive talons and lifted off in the sky before they even knew they were hunted. It snatched its victim up easily and flew off, disappearing into some unknown eyrie or crevice on the mountaintop to enjoy its meal.

I understand now why some many haughty nobles adorn their shields with such a magnificent beast.

—Etahn

Griffon

CharacteristicsCV3
StatScore%Speed30′, Fly 80′
STR1890HP44
CON1680Dmg Mod1d6
SIZ28140AV6
INT420ClassMonster
ACU1260TypeMagical Beast
DEX1470HorrorNone
SOC945TreasureNone
  • Attack: Bite 75% 2d6+3+1d6, 2 Claws 65% 1d4+3+1d6
  • Skills: Dodge 65%, Grapple 75%, Hide 50%, Listen 70%, Spot 75%, Stealth 50%, Athletics 80%, Survival 65%
  • Special: Pounce, Rake, Scent, Darkvision 60′, Reach 10′
  • Weaknesses: None
  • Habitat: Temperate hills and mountains
  • Encounter: Solitary, Pair, or Pride (6-10)

SIZ Note

Large (SIZ 28). Griffons occupy a 10-foot space and have a 10-foot Reach with their natural attacks.

Pounce

If a griffon moves at least 20 feet toward a target while flying or charging, it may attempt a Heroic Action (STR vs. the target’s STR or DEX). On a success, it immediately makes a full attack, including two Rake attacks.

Rake

During a successful Pounce, the griffon gains two additional Claw attacks. These attacks use 85% instead of its normal Claw skill.

Scent

A griffon can detect creatures by scent within 30 feet (60 feet upwind, 15 feet downwind). Strong odors double this range, while overpowering scents triple it. Once the general direction is known, the griffon may pinpoint the creature’s location within 5 feet as a Move Action.

Darkvision

A griffon can see normally in darkness out to 60 feet, provided there is at least the faintest available light.

Reagents and Remnants

Griffon Talons

The razor-sharp talons of a griffon are prized by weapon smiths and artificers. They are commonly fashioned into ceremonial daggers or used as the core of enchantments involving speed or flight.

Value: 10 gp each (16 available)
Harvesting Difficulty: Average

Griffon Hide

A griffon’s thick hide can be tanned into exceptionally durable leather, suitable for mastercraft armor or reinforced shields.

Value: 200 gp
Harvesting Difficulty: Difficult