Emerald Pachyderm
The Emerald Pachyderm: The Majestic Mount of Gwajin, Shoing
In the lush, vibrant province of Shoing, home to dense forests and rich traditions, the town of Gwajin stands out for its unique contribution to the realm of domesticated creatures – the Emerald Pachyderm. This breed, resembling the Asian Elephant but with distinct traits, has become a symbol of Shoing's harmony with nature and its rich cultural tapestry.
Origins in Gwajin
Gwajin, nestled within the emerald forests of Shoing, has always been a center of animal husbandry and a crossroads of diverse cultural influences. The town's inhabitants, known for their deep respect for nature and their expertise in training animals, sought to develop a breed of elephant that was not only suited to the dense forestry of the region but also embodied the spiritual and aesthetic values of their culture. Thus, the Emerald Pachyderm was born.
Breed Characteristics
The Emerald Pachyderm is slightly smaller than the average Asian Elephant, making it more agile and suited to navigate the forested terrain of Shoing. Its skin is a distinctive shade of gray with a hint of green, camouflaging it within the verdant surroundings. The Pachyderm's tusks are shorter and more curved, used effectively for foraging and maneuvering through dense undergrowth.
Temperament and Abilities
Emerald Pachyderms are known for their intelligence and calm demeanor, making them highly trainable for various tasks. They are particularly adept at tasks requiring delicate handling, thanks to their dexterous trunks and keen understanding of their trainers' commands. While powerful, they are also remarkably gentle, often used in ceremonial roles in addition to labor.
Role in Shoing Culture
In Shoing, the Emerald Pachyderm is revered not just as a beast of burden but as a creature of great spiritual significance. They often feature in religious ceremonies and festivals, adorned with colorful fabrics and intricate paint. The breed is also a symbol of Shoing's commitment to living in harmony with the natural world.
Training and Bonding
Training an Emerald Pachyderm is considered an art in Gwajin, requiring patience, a deep understanding of the animal's nature, and a harmonious approach. The bond between a Pachyderm and its handler is built on mutual respect and understanding, with each animal often being associated with a single family for generations.
The Legend of the First Pachyderm
Legend has it that the first Emerald Pachyderm emerged from the heart of Shoing's densest forest, guided by the spirits of the land. This mythical creature was said to have incredible wisdom and a connection to the natural world unlike any other, inspiring the people of Gwajin to breed a line of elephants that shared these mystical qualities.
The Emerald Pachyderm Today
Today, the Emerald Pachyderm is a treasured part of Shoing's heritage. It is a common sight in the forests and fields around Gwajin, serving as a working animal, a participant in cultural events, and a symbol of the region's deep-rooted connection to both the earth and the mystical realms. To be a caretaker of a Pachyderm is to be a guardian of a piece of Shoing's soul.
Emerald Pachyderm
Large beast, unaligned
Armor Class 12 (natural armor)
Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21)
Speed 40 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 (+6) | 9 (-1) | 17 (+3) | 3 (-4) | 12 (+1) | 6 (-2) |
Senses passive Perception 11
Languages —
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Traits
- Forest Camouflage: The Emerald Pachyderm has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made in forested terrain.
- Trunk Dexterity: The Pachyderm can use its trunk to manipulate objects, open simple latches, or perform other simple tasks.
- Gentle Giant: Despite its size, the Pachyderm is known for its gentle nature. It has advantage on Charisma (Animal Handling) checks when interacting in a non-threatening manner.
- Charge: If the Emerald Pachyderm moves at least 20 feet straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 9 (2d8) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Actions
- Stomp: Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 19 (3d8 + 6) bludgeoning damage.
- Trunk Slam: Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (3d6 + 6) bludgeoning damage.