This is one of the true gems of the Dragonbane Bestiary.

Mountain Troll from the Dragonbane Bestiary.

Imagine seeking shelter in a cave somewhere in the highland mountains, only to find writings all over the walls in multiple languages about all kinds of historical events from all over the land. Suddenly, the group hears stirring in the back of the cave, something is coming forward to greet them. A large, horned biped with a horned staff steps forward out of the shadows. What do you do?

Turns out this “monster” is a Mountain Troll. They are generally peaceful and possibly even helpful. They delight in creature comforts, polite company, and stories of historical significance. Basically, the group just stumbled onto one of the kindest, most intelligent, often benevolent creatures in the whole game. I would go so far to say one of the most benevolent creatures in any RPG.

As long as the characters don’t desecrate or destroy any of the troll’s work or offend in some other way, Mountain Trolls can be a font of information. (I mean, adventurers can be prone to screwing up. Am I right?) If forced to fight, the Mountain Troll has six fairly non-lethal attacks, but they would likely know what was going to happen before the characters ever wandered close.

They have max level (18) in Languages as well as Myths & Legends. They can also cast all General Magic Tricks on top of Divination, Farsight, Longstrider, and Scrying all at Power 3. They also regenerate and have sunlight allergy. (See also, Troll.) If there was ever a benevolent NPC to help the party, Mountain Trolls would certainly fit the bill.

It puzzles me why these creatures choose to live alone. I mean, why not near a city or on top of a mountain near populated lands? I could see scholars regularly visiting one of these gentle giants regularly to exchange information. Trolls live for a very long time due to their regeneration. These beings could be exactly what adventurers need to get ahead on their current quest, whatever it is.

Dragonbane Bestiary Copyright 2023 Fria Ligan AB. Art by David Brasgalla.

Thank you for being here today with me. I appreciate you. Please embrace the things that bring you the most joy.