Dragondev

The dragondev is one of the small, yet fierce predators that dwell in wildspace. The dragondev grows up 5 feet long. Its skin is pitch black and seems to absorb light, rendering it nearly invisible. However, the dragondev may produce light when it wishes as it is covered by bioluminescent photophores. It uses these lights to aid in camouflage or attract unwary creatures to its toothy maw.

Combat: In combat the dragondev relies on its numerous teeth. This vicious bite does 1d4+2 points of damage. The dragondev also uses surprise to gain an advantage over its victims. Its body is pitch black, well suited to the shadows of asteroids and depths of wildspace. It also has numerous photophores along its body that light up at will in order to aid in camouflage. The dragondev's camouflage abilities allow it to sneak up on opponents, surprising them 3 in 6. Likewise, the dragondev's camouflage abilities are responsible for its high armor class. In addition, all ranged attacks directed at a dragondev at a distance of 10-50 feet are at -2 to hit, 51-100 feet -4, and over 100 feet impossible. Of course, these ranges may be extended by artificial sources of light. Finally, the dragondev possesses organs over its eyes that project a beam of radiation. This beam is invisible to all except those possessing magical vision such as True Sight. This unknown form of radiation allows the dragondev to see in the depths of wildspace, even in pitch darkness. This beam also allows the dragondev to see invisible creatures.

Habitat/Society: Dragondev sail about debris or asteroid fields. They eat the various small devs that lair or come to feed within these rocky habitats. The dragondev needs air to survive, but is a very efficient respirator. It can go for hours without needing to breath and can even lie dormant for days until an air source (such as a ship!) becomes available. Still, they will not stray far from breathable atmospheres. The dragondev is considered a pest by spacers, albeit a dangerous one. Unlike scavvers, the dragondev is content to eat smaller prey and will not attack ships or humanoids unless very hungry or provoked. Note that phosphorescent light sources tend to attract these creatures, curious to see if it is some creature worth eating. Conversely, they avoid artificial light sources such as torches or Light spells.

Ecology: The dragondev preys upon the smaller creatures of wildspace. It will occasionally strike at larger creatures if it can surprise a lone target. The dragondev is not actively hunted by other predators, although large ones may snack on a dragondev if they are hungry and the opportunity presents itself.