Cerberus Horse

Description

The Cerberus Horse is a majestic and enchanted beast native to the realm of Cerberus. These extraordinary creatures are deeply revered by the people of Cerberus, holding a place of honor even above that of dogs. Renowned for their loyalty, power, hard work, and bravery in the face of giants, Cerberus Horses are respected by all who encounter them.

Legend has it that the bond between the people of Cerberus and these horses runs so deep that their mana has intertwined, resulting in truly magical beings. This connection is evident in the horses' enhanced abilities and supernatural qualities.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Typically Large, with the potential to grow larger and stronger with age
• Lifespan: Up to 100 years when bonded with a rider; potentially indeterminate when living wild with its herd
• Appearance: Varies, but generally more muscular and robust than ordinary horses

Special Abilities

1. Extraordinary Speed: Cerberus Horses are capable of reaching incredible speeds, especially at higher levels.
2. Supernatural Leaping: These horses can perform extraordinary jumps, with leap distances increasing as they grow in power.
3. Call to Bravery: The horse's cry has a supernatural effect on its rider, boosting their strength and resolve.
4. Exceptional Durability: Some Cerberus Horses can withstand powerful blows, even from giants, without flinching.
5. Enhanced Senses: At higher levels (5+), these horses can perceive invisible entities and navigate through total darkness without requiring perception checks.
6. Intelligence: Cerberus Horses understand the language of the people of Cerberus, though they do not speak. They possess a Lawful Good alignment and will not cooperate with riders they dislike.

Combat Abilities

• Mounted Charge: Provides significant bonuses to the rider's attack rolls and damage when charging.
• Bravery Aura: Enhances the rider's HP, attack rolls, and damage rolls.
• Defensive Pivot: Once per turn, the horse can quickly move to intercept attacks meant for its rider.

Special Traits

• Loyalty: Cerberus Horses form deep bonds with their riders, often unable to survive long after their rider's death.
• Population Control: These horses naturally regulate their birth rates to maintain balance within their herds.
• Giant Slayers: Cerberus Horses are natural enemies of the Giants of Cerberus and play a crucial role in combat against them.

Summoning and Bonding

Cerberus Horses can be summoned through specific magical means. A summoner with a strong affinity for a particular horse may name and resummon it, strengthening their bond and enhancing communication. The number of horses a caster can bond with is typically limited by their intelligence.

In Battle

Cerberus Horses excel in mounted combat scenarios. They provide their riders with enhanced mobility, allowing for swift charges, strategic retreats, and devastating attacks. Their ability to leap and maneuver makes them particularly effective against larger foes like giants.

Cultural Significance

The Cerberus Horse holds immense cultural importance in Cerberus. They are seen as more than mere animals, but as companions, protectors, and symbols of the realm's resilience and strength. The deep connection between these horses and the people of Cerberus is a testament to their shared history and the magical nature of their bond.

Power Scaling and Statistics

When creating a Cerberus Horse for encounters or as a companion, Game Masters can use the following table as a guideline. While this table is derived from the spell used to summon these magical steeds, it can also serve as a tool for creating Cerberus Horses of varying power levels without the use of spells.

For non-spell creation of Cerberus Horses, GMs should mentally substitute "Spell Level" with "Cerberus Horse Power Category." This allows for the creation of Cerberus Horses at different strength levels to suit various encounter needs or to represent horses of different ages and experiences.

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