The Miinlej

Intended Difficulty: Intermediate

A Miinlej is large, nocturnal beetle with a crescent-shaped head, legs, and a purple carapace that glows in moonlight. Its mouth is positioned on its underbelly, so when it feeds, it must lower itself to the ground, making it vulnerable to attack. As such, it only feeds at night, and in thickets and secluded groves.

Blessed by the Moon.

Born with arcane potential, the Miinlej possesses magical abilities that awaken at night. When its carapace glows, its body stirs with energy. It uses this power to create illusions of itself in the moonlight, or to regenerate if injured. At dawn, or when clouds block out the night sky, the energy dissipates and the Miinlej is left without its magic.

Wolves of the Insect World.

Miinlejs travel and nest in small groups of three or four. During the day, their exteriors dull to a shale gray, making it indistinguishable from a large boulder at a distance. At night (most often when the moon is full) they rise and search together for patches of brush, fallen trees, or even small woodland creatures to feast on. One Miinlej waits to eat, in case they are ambushed by predators. When the rest are full, it takes its turn.

An Unusual Steed.

With a great deal of effort and time, a Miinlej can be tamed and ridden into battle. Some orc tribes have been known to enslave several packs, providing their warriors with the exotic mount. While not as fast as a horse or worg, the beetle’s head is suitable for piercing, ramming, or just intimidation. The Miinlej’s hardiness makes it an ideal mount for large scale battles.