Appendix C: Monsters and NPCs - Ghosts of Saltmarsh

Appendix C: Monsters and NPCs. This appendix details creatures and nonplayer characters that are mentioned in this book and that don't appear in the Monster Manual. That book's introduction explains how to interpret a stat block. Some of these creatures are also described in Tomb of Annihilation, Volo's Guide to Monsters, and Princes of the Apocalypse but are reproduced here for your convenience. The creatures are presented in alphabetical order. Amphisbaena Found in Danger at Dunwater, these strange reptiles have a head at either end of their serpentine bodies, each one equipped with venomous fangs. To move, an amphisbaena uses one head to grip the neck of its other head, forming a hoop that rolls over the ground. Assassin Vine An assassin vine is an ambulatory plant that collects its fertilizer by grabbing and crushing prey and depositing the carcasses near its roots. It usually stays put unless it needs to seek out prey. A mature plant consists of a main vine, about 20 feet long. Smaller vines up to 5 feet long branch from the main vine every 6 inches. In late summer, the secondary vines produce bunches of small fruits that resemble wild grapes. The fruit is tough and has a hearty but bitter flavor. A subterranean variant grows near hot springs, volcanic vents, and other sources of heat. An assassin vine growing underground usually generates enough offal to support a thriving colony of mushrooms and other fungi, which spring up around the plant and help conceal it. Bard bard are gifted poets, storytellers, and entertainers who travel far and wide, but are commonly found in taverns or in the company of jolly bands of adventurers, rough-and-tumble mercenaries, and wealthy patrons. Bodak A bodak numbers among the numerous undead guardians in Isle of the Abbey. These soulless terrors, each one risen from the remains of someone who revered Orcus, Lord of the Undead, exist only to spread further suffering and death. Bullywug Croaker Some bullywug croaker are born wi...