OD&D Hex: Weird, Tutor, Swamp - Toad Sage
Gort the Lethargic, a giant toad, resides in a bog formed where snowmelt drains off a nearby mountain. Itβs said that he is a man who dreamed he was a toad, or perhaps a toad who dreams he is a man. Regardless, the immense batrachian spends his days bathing in the sun and peat, contemplating whatever conundrum has his attention.
Gort offers his services as a sage to those who conduct themselves with courtesy and do not rush him. He takes three times as long as a regular sage, but will accept as payment such non-monetary gifts as alcohol, food, and curiosities.
The mighty toad also knows some hedge magic and will impart the knowledge of certain unleveled spells (brown magic) to those who bring him things to ponder:
- Something that seems foul but is truly fair - plant growth
- Something that seems fair but is truly foul - control water
- Something that succinctly illustrates a civilizationβs hubris - telekinesis
Gort himself may cast each once per day.
Each month there is a 2-in-6 chance of a magic user, monk, or scholar visiting Gort. They usually stay for 1d6 weeks, often becoming frustrated with Gortβs arbitrary and meandering nature.
Gort will submerge himself in peat to escape assailants, but will defend himself if pursued.