Description: The Aetherian Roc is an avian creature of legend, roosting atop the highest mountain peaks of Arda. With feathers that seem to be woven from the golden threads of the sunset, the Roc embodies the spirit of the wind and sky. Its call is said to sound like a melodious wind-chime, resonating with the very essence of air.
Behavior and Diet: Aetherian Rocs are predators with a taste for large prey, capable of diving from the skies to snatch up creatures many times their own size. Their diet consists mainly of mountain goats, wyverns, and sometimes even giants. They are neutral towards humanoids unless their nests are threatened. In such cases, they display incredible ferocity and command over the winds.
Statblock
Aetherian Roc Large beast, neutral
Armor Class: 15 (natural armor) Hit Points: 28 (3d10 + 10) Speed: 20 ft., fly 30 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 (+3) | 18 (+4) | 12 (+1) | 8 (-1) | 14 (+2) | 10 (+0) |
Skills: Perception +4, Acrobatics +6 Senses: passive Perception 14 Languages: understands Auran but can't speak it Challenge: 2 (450 XP)
Keen Sight. The Aetherian Roc has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.
Wind Rider. The Roc can use the Disengage action as a bonus action on its turn, representing its ability to ride sudden gusts of wind to escape threats.
Actions
Multiattack. The Aetherian Roc makes two attacks: one with its beak and one with its talons.
Beak. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage.
Talons. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) slashing damage.
Gust Assault (Recharge 5-6). The Aetherian Roc beats its wings to create a powerful gust of wind in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in the cone must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be pushed up to 15 feet away from the Roc and knocked prone. The Roc can then fly up to half its flying speed.