Darkmantles question.

[pokedigimaniac]

I just figured I'd ask this here, since it's come up in my prep for World's Largest Dungeon. My question is this: Can a Darkmantle Constrict in the same turn that it uses its Improved Grab ability to attach to the opponent's head (per a successful grapple check)? Also, I'm pretty sure I have this bit right, but the 'successful grapple check' called for in Constrict would be an opposed grapple check against the person being choked, correct?

Speedy responses would be appreciated - I run tomorrow. ^^ Thank you in advance!

 

[shilsen]

I just figured I'd ask this here, since it's come up in my prep for World's Largest Dungeon. My question is this: Can a Darkmantle Constrict in the same turn that it uses its Improved Grab ability to attach to the opponent's head (per a successful grapple check)?

Yes. Read the descriptions of Constrict (pg 307) and Improved Grab (pg 310) in the MM glossary for more details.

Also, I'm pretty sure I have this bit right, but the 'successful grapple check' called for in Constrict would be an opposed grapple check against the person being choked, correct?

Yes.

Speedy responses would be appreciated - I run tomorrow. ^^ Thank you in advance!

You're welcome. Hope that was early enough for your game.

 

[pokedigimaniac]

Perfect, in fact. Thank you very much!

 

[Infiniti2000]

Note that the darkmantle's improved grab ability is much stronger that other creature's. The darkmantle, being Small, can actually use it on Large or smaller creatures whereas the base Improved Grab ability would only allow it to work on Tiny or smaller.

One other odd thing about the darkmantle is that improved grab makes the darkmantle pull the victim into its space. Thus, if the darkmantle drops from above, it attacks before entering the victim's space and, if successful, pulls the victim up (perhaps 5ft) and then both would likely drop down. I guess they both become prone at that point. Also, the darkmantle does not have the maneuverability to drop straight down. It must come in at a 45 degree angle, and if it misses continuing moving for 10ft before fly up again.