Mordenkainen's Tortoise
Profoundly gentle and of genius intelligence, these rare and highly prized reptiles are descendants from an egg that was crafted and hatched by the ancient wizard Mordenkainen in the 10th century. It is less accurate to say that the animal can be counted as domesticated than that the animal is willing to give its allegiance to those who earn its respect. This is commonly given to those who are able to hatch the animal from an egg.
In addition to being highly defensive and able to cause effective damage in its attack, the tortoise possesses a like dweomer to that of a paladin, in that it provides a continuous protection from malevolence, which surrounds the animal, extending outwards for two combat hexes, that any friend of the tortoise may enjoy if within that radius. Naturally, this moves with the tortoise, which in any given round is able to advance one hex forward, or employ its single attack.
The tortoise's jaws are able to snap so quickly that it always gains initiative against its enemies. Additionally, the tortoise's neck is able to stretch, so that it is able to attack creatures up to two hexes away, provided they are directly in front of the tortoise (within a 60-degree arc). Because the snap is so quick, there is no chance for enemies to attack the tortoise's momentarily exposed neck.
If raised from an egg, the tortoise must be communicated with, and taught how to generate its magical dweomer, or else this will have to emerge naturally. A spellcaster with the spell, or a paladin, possessing the ability to speak with animals, can teach the tortoise within 3–12 days. Both speak with animals and protection from malevolence spells must be cast (the paladin need not cast the latter) each day of instruction. If not taught, the tortoise will acquire this skill within a year.
Typically, it requires four months before the tortoise can snap with its full power (add 1d4 per month of growth). The ability to reach a further target will take 5–8 months to acquire.
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