New Mutant Monday # 59 - Chitterer

These mutant insects are the offspring of the common Cricket, which was so common before the end of the final wars. Many found the sound these creatures made to be soothing and were commonly heard during the night as the little insects sought mates.

Now the sound of their call is something to be feared, as they have grown in size and ferocity. The creatures are typically about two feet in length and possess a obsidian shell, which is far tougher than their ancestors possessed. The creatures also have become carnivorous, searching out meat (any will suffice) for survival. The mandibles have become stronger and sharper, inflicting nasty wounds.

The third stage in the Graboid life-cycle, this creature is the egg-layer. Like the African version of the Graboid, this creature is considerably larger and more dangerous than its North American Cousin.

This version of the monster stands at around seven feet in height, and weighs in excess of 1000 pounds. It still possesses the long, powerful legs and wings, but unlike it’s cousin from the America’s, the head is not shaped similar to that of the Graboid. Instead this one has a circular mouth filled with inward pointing teeth.

As aggressive as the American version of this creature is, the African version is even more so. Especially when it comes to anyone entering their territory or threatening the nest.

The creatures lay 2d8 eggs each, and stay with the nest, guarding and protecting it from possible harm, even after the eggs hatch and release the infant Graboids. Anyone foolish enough to try and remove eggs from the nest will be ruthlessly hunted and destroyed. To make matters worse, the creatures will also attack any family or close relations to the violator, as long as they have had a chance to sample the DNA, which they will use to track the offender’s family down. The creatures will kill and consume all members of the offender’s family for revenge, even if they get their eggs back.

As with their cousins, these creatures can use an explosive chemical mixture as a weapon. Any creature caught directly behind the creature (within 45 feet long by 10 foot wide corridor), can be injured or killed as it launches into the air. The chemical reaction is very hot and will easily start flammable materials aflame. This flame will cause 12d6 points of damage. The victim is allowed two saving throws. The first is to dodge out of the way (requiring a save versus energy). If it succeeds, the victim takes only half damage. The second is to avoid catching fire, (not required if the first save succeeds). The save is against energy again and if this fails, the fire will continue to burn for 1d4 rounds, inflicting 4d6 points per round. It can be doused by water or any flame retardant chemical. Also, any flammable material must save versus thermal (see Wisdom from the Wastelands issue 1) or burst into flame.

Mutations: Aberrant form (extra parts, natural weapons, xenomorphism), complete wing development, natural armor, sonic shout, thermal vision, toxic weapon (explosive gas), vision impairment (drawback).

Source: Tremors: Bloodlines (2015)

No. Enc: 1d4
Alignment:  Neutral
Movement: 90' (30')
                    150' (50') Fly
                     60' (20') Jump
AC: 3
HD: 16
Attacks: 1 Bite or 2 stomps or wing slash or ass blast
Damage: 5d6 or 3d10 / 3d10 or 3d6 or 12d6
Save: L16
Morale: 10
Hoard Class: None

No. Enc: 1d4
Alignment:  Neutral
Movement: 180' (60')
AC: 0
HD: 30
Attacks: 1 Bite or special (see description)
Damage: 8d6 or special (see description)
Save: L20
Morale: 10
Hoard Class: None

 No. Enc: 4d4
Alignment:  Neutral
Movement: 90’ (30’)
60’ (20’) Jump
AC: 4
HD: 1
Attacks: 1 bite or sonic attack
Damage: 1d4 or see below
Save: L2
Morale: 4
Hoard Class: N/A