Gargoyle
Gargoyles are monstrous creatures, with the body and face of an animal, usually a maneless lion, and large batlike wings. Gargoyles are capable of speech. Some are made from stone, others are living creatures, grey in color, and all of them have glowing yellow eyes. They guard places like castles and mansions, in addition to whatever protective spells and might be lurking about. Gargoyles also drain excessive water from the roof of a building when it is raining through holes in their back, spitting it out from the back of their throats. (If the gargoyle is made of stone, this hole will be connected to a pipe, which it can detach from at will.) When it is raining, it is easy to get past gargoyles; preventing water damage is their first priority, and they will be unable to talk at this time, or they risk choking. Stone gargoyles, being created by the owner, receive no payment and are obligated to stay; living ones will often be paid to stay by the owner of the property.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Gargoyles have four limbs and two large batlike wings. They have an opening in their backs that is directly connected to their throats, helping them to redirect water flow when it's raining. When eating or drinking, the opening closes and the tube seals to allow access to the stomach.
Biological Traits
In the event of an emergency or imminent threat to a stone gargoyle, something similar to a soul can be transferred out of the stone gargoyle and stored in any magically reinforced container. The soul-like ball of energy contains the gargoyle's personality and memories. It can then be transferred to a new gargoyle at any time. Someone must be on standby at all times for this, however. If a magician doesn't get to the gargoyle in time, there's nothing they can do. This doesn't work for regular gargoyles, obviously.
Additional Information
Domestication
Gargoyles cannot be domesticated in the traditional sense, but they do guard places they are asked to protect, be it for pay or due to obligation.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Stone gargoyle "souls" are in high demand due to their overwelming potential as an energy source. Sadly, little consideration is given to the living soul within.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Global
Average Intelligence
Human or higher
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
- Enhanced Hearing
- Illusion Negation: Gargoyles aren't fooled by illusion and invisibility; their eyes allow them to pierce right through any spell.
- Magic Detection
Civilization and Culture
Scientific Name
Lapis carceris
Lifespan
100-150 years (N/A for stone gargoyles)
Conservation Status
Data Deficient
Average Height
4-5 feet (122-152 cm)
Average Weight
450-550 lbs (204-249 kg). Living gargoyles are 200-250 lbs (91-113 kg).
