The Emerald Pachyderm is slightly smaller than a standard elephant — more agile, with shorter curved tusks better suited to navigating dense undergrowth than open-plains combat. Its skin is a distinctive grey-green that gives it both its name and a natural camouflage in the deep forests of [Shoing](Shoing/Welcome to Shoing). Its trunk is notably dexterous even by elephant standards, capable of precise manipulation that surprises those expecting brute-force tool use. It moves with a careful, considered quality — deliberate without being slow, powerful without being ponderous.

Native to the emerald forests surrounding Gwajin in [Shoing](Shoing/Welcome to Shoing), where they have been domesticated and bred for generations. Wild populations still exist in Shoing's interior forests. They thrive in humid forest environments and are poorly suited to cold or arid climates. Their range as domesticated animals extends wherever Shoing merchants and laborers operate, but they are most common in Gwajin and the surrounding provincial towns.

Highly intelligent and long-memoried, with a calm, curious temperament that makes them one of the more tractable large animals in Dort. The Emerald Pachyderm forms multigenerational bonds with handler families — a Pachyderm bonded to a family in Gwajin may be passed down two or three generations while remaining devoted to the bloodline. They communicate subtle emotions through ear position, trunk posture, and low-frequency vocalizations that experienced handlers learn to read as clearly as speech.

Formidable if provoked, primarily through stomp and trunk slam. Their charge is powerful enough to knock large opponents prone. Under normal circumstances they are peaceful and reluctant to engage threats, relying on size as a deterrent. Extremely loyal to their handlers — a Pachyderm will charge to defend its family without hesitation.

In [Shoing](Shoing/Welcome to Shoing), the Emerald Pachyderm carries deep spiritual significance — believed by some traditions to be touched by the forest spirits of the region. They appear adorned with elaborate painted designs in religious ceremonies and festivals, and their handlers occupy a respected position in Gwajin society. To be a Pachyderm caretaker is considered a form of guardianship not just of an animal but of a piece of Shoing's living heritage.

Large Beast, Unaligned

Armor Class 12 (natural armor)
Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21)
Speed 40 ft.

Senses passive Perception 11
Languages —
Challenge 2 (450 XP)