General Information
Name: Lurker Predator
Class: Beast
Type: Ambusher
Threat Level: 3
Size: Medium-Large
Height: 1.8 m
Description: The Lurker Predator is a terrifying creature designed for brutal ambushes and swift, lethal strikes. Its body is covered in a dark, almost obsidian-colored exoskeleton that provides heavy protection. It has long, spiky limbs with razor-sharp claws that are adapted for high-speed charges and deadly leaps. The creature possesses a pair of weak eyes that likely see only outlines; it relies more on its scout partner and acute hearing to detect movement and locate prey. The core of its body contains an armored organ capable of ejecting an oily, flammable substance over a distance. However, its joints have vulnerable weak points. The Lurker Predator lives exclusively in underground tunnels or cave systems and avoids exposure to light. If it becomes too starved, it may venture outside at night, remaining close to its territory.
Behaviour: Highly aggressive, patient, and territorial, the Lurker Predator relies on stealth and ambush tactics. It cooperates with the Lurker Scout to isolate and overwhelm prey, using its long limbs for powerful leap attacks and precise executions. Despite its heavy armor, it is surprisingly fast, light, and capable of calculated retreats if wounded. Its hearing makes it highly sensitive to sharp sounds.
Combat notes
Weaknesses: Direct damage to exposed joints can paralyze limbs. The soft area on the neck contains spinal connections, and when punctured deeply enough, it can be immediately fatal. Loud or sharp noises, along with intense light, can cause disorientation. The oil-spitting organ, when the mouth is open, can be ignited, resulting in near-lethal internal damage. While this method is effective for killing, it ruins the organ for any subsequent use.
Strategy: Do not fight alone! Initiate on the baiting Scout as distraction to provoke the Predator. Immediately coutner-charge at the ambushing Predator with loud shouts and bright lights to surprise it. Aim to isolate and finish the Predator quickly. Always keep an eye on the Scout. If you plan to fight with open fire, only use it when you are in close proximity; otherwise, the oil projectile would be deadly. When preparing to spit, open your mouth wide and produce a low groaning sound as a warning. Its exoskeleton renders ranged attacks ineffective.
Alchemical aid: ---
Field Extraction
Valuable parts
Oil gland: Highly valuable organ that continues to produce Lurker Oil for three to four hours post-mortem. It combusts at very high temperatures upon contact with fire and turns to ash quickly.
Extraction: The armored oil gland must be carefully extracted post-mortem. This process requires precise cutting around the rib-like plates and may involve cooling the gland to prevent accidental ignition. Once extracted, store the gland in a cooled Rimeleek clay pot that can hold at least two liters of oil. The used gland can be kept in a dry place and utilized as an igniter.