Ferroslime

Metallic Oozes with a Magnetic Presence

WIth bodies unlike that of any other creature in the mortal realms, oozes are a peculiarity amongst peculiarities. Yet even with that distinction, the Ferroslime sets itself apart from its brethren with an alien nature seemingly beyond understanding. An ominous form that ebbs and flows entirely upon the whims of its own magnetic field, the slime drifts onwards without any conceivable reason until it feels the pull of delectable steel within its vicinity. Those who hold tight to their armor, blades, or gold become blinded to their encroaching demise, even as the Ferroslime begins to engulf them entirely. 

Liquid Metal. There is no true consensus regarding the origin of the first Ferroslime, and to this day its very existence serves to baffle even the most brilliant arcane scholars. Concerningly, over the years the number of reports claiming to have seen floating metal spheres in all manner of environments increases day by day. Whether this is evidence of their resumed manufacturing or the more dreadful possibility that the oozes themselves are capable of multiplication is uncertain. 

Magnetic Mass. As is the case with many of their cousins, the ferroslime itself is composed of a singular material; a dark metal liquid that is confoundingly capable of self-magnetizing to hold its form together. As such there is no perceivable “will” or manner of thought housed within these floating spheres, save for a singular attraction towards metallic objects brought within its vicinity. Perhaps this instinct is all that drives the ferroslime, an unsettling and ceaseless desire to consume and grow ever stronger than before. 

Conductive Form. Being made entirely of a colloidal fluid, the Ferroslime is as difficult to understand as it is to destroy. Entirely immune to forms of metallic assault, it bewilders many adventurers who first encounter it as their trusty blades find no purchase in the ooze’s unknowable mass. Though extreme temperatures disrupt the ooze’s control over itself, this solution is a temporary one. As such, the amount of firepower required to vanquish a Ferroslime is significant; only well-prepared parties should attempt to face one, or be resolved to part ways with their precious belongings. 

A low thrumming echoes round the corner before you see it; an impossibly round orb of metal, floating just above the dungeon floors. Its surface glints with an unnatural sheen, flowing like water as the torch light catches it. Suddenly, the low drone changes in tone and pitch. The perfectly smooth exterior begins to ripple erratically, spiked protrusions erupting in your direction. As you look closer you realize that each spine seems to reach towards you, and you swear you can feel your armor and blade shifting in response. Before you can hope to understand the forces at work around you, the orb changes course and advances towards you.