Hydrangle

Hungering Thistles on the Roll

Appearing as little more than a bundle of dried sticks and vines, a hydrangle is a fearsome predator that few recognize until it’s too late. Those unaware of its true nature are blindsided by the creature’s disguise, but those who know what to expect have come to listen for the telltale rustling of it rolling across the land in search of its next meal. 

Growing Threat. Due to their curious ability to not only regenerate from damage, but further grow from it, long-lived hydrangles are particularly dangerous. Any half-hearted attempts to slay one often simply result in the creature growing larger and mightier, until it becomes unmanageable by regular means. The simplest solution is to remain high above the open plains, where it is more difficult for the creature to roam. 

Thousand Cuts. While other plants and plant-like creatures require little more than sunlight, water, and air for sustenance, the hydrangle subsists itself on the lifeblood of other creatures. Those caught within its brambles are subject to a thousand pricks and points, their blood leeching into the hydragngle’s thirsty branches. Similar to other carnivorous plants, a hydrangle can survive long after its last meal as it conserves its precious energy by letting the wind carry it onwards in search of more prey. 

Roaming Predator. Often, a hydrangle can survive in its hunting grounds for years before being discovered. With casual passerby unlikely to discern its true nature and any unfortunate victims succumbing to its deadly assault, there is usually little to point towards its existence for the surrounding population. Its ability to relocate after feeding only adds to the difficulty of ascertaining what manner of being is responsible for the deaths of those around its habitat. 

The wide open plains welcome you. At long last, some peace and quiet descends on your party, who appreciate the change of pace. The soft sand before you kisses the blue skies on the horizon, nothing else around except a single tumbleweed in the distance. Truly, a magnificent s- wow that is a really large tumbleweed.

Like, CONCERNINGLY large. 

Oh, now it’s rolling towards you. Why does it seem like it’s coming RIGHT towards you?