[Thundar Thursday] Savage Menagerie: Groundling

No. Enc.: 1d10 (3d10)
Alignment: Chaotic
Movement: 120' (40')
Armor Class: 5
Hit Dice: 6
Attacks: 1 (claw, bite, or weapon)
Damage: 1d6, 1d6, or as weapon type
Save: L4
Morale: 6
Hoard Class: VII

Groundlings are “rat-men” that are devious, cowardly, and untrustworthy. They are covered in fine grey hair, and they have the elongated snout and ears of a rodent. Groundlings attack the weak and shy away from the strong, so they are often found tormenting and robbing weaker mutants they encounter. Because of their cowardice, they are often found working as minions for more powerful villains.

Groundlings live underground in massive caverns and cave complexes. Most groundling lairs have one leader, who is the strongest and/or most intelligent of the clan. This leader can be identified by the human finery he chooses to outfit himself with (robes, jewelry, a crown perhaps).

Groundlings are fairly clever and dexterous. They are able to use most advanced weapons and some have even been seen driving vehicles. It isn't unusual to see groundlings armed with lasers or other firearms. In combat, they are very quick and nimble, so hitting them can be problematic. However, they aren't very physically strong, so they won’t stand toe-to-toe with an enemy, preferring to either attack from a distance or run in, attack, and dash away. They are also quite cowardly, choosing to ambush a party from the shadows and then run if the tide turns against them.

Mutations: increased balance, reduced strength

NOTE: This creature is inspired the episode “Secret of the Black Pearl” from the classic Ruby Spears post-apocalyptic cartoon “Thundarr the Barbarian.” Stay tuned each week for “Thundarr Thursday”!