Scarke are the result of seaborn humanoid beings exposed over a prolonged period to arcane pollution, often stemming from the aftermath of immensely powerful magical events. These changes manifest within a single generation and are are irreversible without equally powerful magic. Typically, communities affected by this pollution either remained unaware of its presence or were unable to relocate, leading to their eventual collapse and the emergence of the instinct-driven scarke.
Scarke primarily scavenge for sustenance, yet they won’t hesitate to attack any creature that crosses their path. However, their hunting skills are subpar, making it unlikely for them to locate prey once it has fled. Dark environments suit them best, where they can capitalize on their unique sensory abilities, such as murky waters or caverns. Echolocation serves as their primary means of navigating and perceiving their surroundings, which is enhanced when submerged.
Savy adventurers can exploit the scarke’s reliance on sound. Skillful misdirection can effectively disorient a pack of scarke, although any misstep risks drawing their attention and inviting a flurry of swiping claws.
Scarke
Medium Monstrosity, Unaligned
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 (+0) | 15 (+2) | 12 (+1) | 4 (-3) | 13 (+1) | 5 (-3) |
Skills Stealth +4
Senses blindsight 60 ft. (blind beyond this radius), passive Perception 11
Languages —
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Proficiency Bonus +2
Amphibious. The scarke can breathe air and water.
Echolocation. The scarke can’t use its blindsight while deafened.
Sea Sight. While submerged in water, the scarke’s blindsight extends to 120 feet when detecting creatures or objects in the same body of water as itself.
Actions
Multiattack. The scarke makes one Bite attack and one Claw attack.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Reactions
Sudden Strike. When a creatures enters the scarke’s reach, the scarke can make one Claw attack against it. This attack has disadvantage.
Downloads
Further Reading
Looking for a different creature to haunt the watery depths? Try the boghoul.
A quest for the singing swordfish might begin in a town that was transformed into scarke!
Imagery created with Midjourney.
