Encountering a gem giant typically occurs accidentally, often during mining or construction activities in a mountain where a gem giant rests within the stone surface. These encounters are usually chaotic, catching everyone off guard as a giant emerges unexpectedly from a stone wall in the midst of a work site. The encounter can trigger a subsequent hunt for the creature, fueled by tales of the massive gems growing from the giant’s skin.
Gem giant hunters are commonly driven by a desire to slay the creature and harvest its crystals and gems. However, a distinct group of hunters seeks a symbiotic relationship. Noble dwarven clans will seize the opportunity for a long-term agreement. They offer a lifetime supply of valuable metals and rare minerals in exchange for the right to delicately harvest the gems that grow from the giant’s body. Such agreements can significantly boost a clan’s economic status and serve as a formidable deterrent to potential invaders. Conversely, malevolent factions have been known to imprison gem giants for a similar purpose.
The gems, stones, and crystals obtained from a gem giant are in their crudest form and demand meticulous craftsmanship to reach the quality found in jeweler’s shops. Consequently, their value is a fraction of their refined counterparts, and their weight is substantially higher due to flawed portions and other excess material attached to the surface.
Gem giants can sleep for years if undisturbed. During their slumber within stone, gem giants absorb surrounding minerals, sustaining themselves during year-long rests. Areas devoid of valuable metals and minerals are sometimes referred to as a “giant’s rest.”
Gem Giant
Huge Giant, Typically Chaotic Neutral
Armor Class 17 (natural armor)
Hit Points 162 (13d12 + 78)
Speed 40 ft., climb 40 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 (+6) | 13 (+1) | 22 (+6) | 10 (+0) | 11 (+0) | 12 (+1) |
Saving Throws Str +10, Con +10, Cha +5
Skills Perception +4, Stealth +5
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 14
Languages Giant
Challenge 9 (5,000 XP)
Proficiency Bonus +4
Mineral Metabolism. While under the effect of meld into stone, the giant doesn’t need to eat or drink.
Actions
Multiattack. The giant makes two Slam attacks.
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 28 (5d8 + 6) bludgeoning damage.
Shattering Throw. The giant dislodges a crystal and throws it up to 90 feet where it shatters in a 20-foot-raidus sphere. Each creature in that area must make a DC 16 Dexterity saving throw, taking 39 (6d12) piercing damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. After the giant throws the crystal, roll a d6; on a roll of 3 or lower, the giant has no more crystals to throw.
Spellcasting. The giant casts one of the following spells, requiring no material components and using Charisma as the spellcasting ability (spell save DC 13):
- 1/day: meld into stone (1 year duration)
Reactions
Fool’s Ruby. When the giant is dealt damage, it can dislodge a shiny red stone that falls in a space within 20 feet of it. Each other creature within 10 feet of the stone must succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or be compelled to pick up the stone on their next turn if the stone is on the ground. If a creature picks up the stone, it is immune to Fool’s Ruby for the next 24 hours.
Downloads
Further Reading
An evil faction seems to have an endless supply of prismatic grenades. The source for the raw crystals required in crafting: an imprisoned gem giant.
A quest to craft a chromatic chronometer could require a supply of various gems.
Imagery created with Midjourney.
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