Blood Bestiary

> Things that go bump in the night.

> Bat
> Not noted for their bravery, bats are nonetheless aggravating little buggers. These squeaking, chittering masses of wing and fang swoop out of the darkness for souvenirs of flesh when you're least suspecting. They're not the toughest of fiends, but you definitely don't want them in your face when you're trying to get a bead on something more. . . dangerous.

> Rat
> You never know exactly where you're going to run into a nest of rats, but it's safe to assume there's something dead and rotting close by. They aren't called "dirty little rats" for nothing, you know. While they probably won't bother you too much unless they feel threatened, it's best to dispose of them so you don't leave yourself any nasty surprises.

> Spider
> Even the stoutest arachnophiles have the sense to flee from certain species. Whether small or large, swift or lazy, clever or dim-witted, these pests all pack powerful poisons. If you're not careful, you may find yourself stumbling around blindly or slowed down by the venom coursing through your veins.

> Cultist
> These bad boys are the chief minions of the Cabal and it won't take you long to develop a deep, abiding hatred toward them. If you interrupt their dark rituals, they'll want to teach you a lesson in respect. They're equally fond of shotguns, Tommy guns, and dynamite, so be sure you're ready for a fight before you tangle with them. Their long service to the Cabal has eroded their fear as well as their sanity, and they'll stop at nothing to feed your soul to their dark master.

> Axe Zombie
> These slabs of rotting, undead meat are a force to be reckoned with. They aren't the brightest foes you'll face, but they can be very persistant. If you don't blow their stinking heads off, you'd better learn look over your shoulder, because chances are you have a loyal following you don't know about. Even wreathed in flames they'll drag you screaming into an early grave.

> Fat Zombie
> Sure, they're bloated, rotting corpses that lurch around like drunks, but don't let that lull you near them. The cleavers they carry have taught some bitter lessons to careless adversaries. You're best bet is to air them out with a sawed-off shotgun at point blank range--assuming you've got the huevos to get that close to them!

> Gargoyle
> Gargoyles often perch above open areas, waiting for unsuspecting prey to pass below them. They have also been known to disguise themselves as statues, a rather nasty habit that renders them even more difficult to detect. They are swift and cautious, and tend to hurl bones at their victims until they can get in close enough to bring their talons to bear. If you give them the chance, they'll wear your entrails as fashion accessories!

> Stone Gargoyle
> Like their lesser cousins, stone gargoyles are devilishly clever creatures. Their rugged hides provide natural armor, but they're thick-skinned in more ways than one. Once they take an interest in you, you've got a companion for life, though it will be a brief acquaintance. Check your arsenal carefully before engaging one of these guys in battle--unless you're interested in a "limited" engagement.

> Hell Hound
> These furless mastiffs may not seem likely to win any dog shows with their bloody, gleaming musculature and fiery breath, but don't be surprised if they devour the competition. Their hunger is insatiable, and they like their meat well done. Oh, and don't be fooled: their bite is much worse than their bark.

> Bone Eel
> Skinny dipping isn't recommended in eel-infested waters. These spiny, flesh-eating devils of the deep will gladly chew you some new orifices. If you can't resist the thought of a moonlight swim, prepare to face these agile little monsters in their preferred environment.

> Gill Beast
> Despite a stench that will keep you out of fish markets for the rest of your life, these mobile mounds of teeth are best encountered on dry land, out of their natural element. Underwater, they'll quickly show you the meaning of a stomping ground. They may even summon a few bone eels to help out. Fish food, anyone?

> Hell Hand
> These spider-like menaces would love nothing more than to get their fingers around your throat and squeeze. Watch for them scuttling along walls and ceilings. The last thing you need is a handshake from one of these fiends.

> Phantasm
> These revenants lurk just on the other side of the world of the living, crossing over only to harvest their victims. It is when they straddle this border between worlds that they are vulnerable, so time your attacks carefully. Beware their scythes, lest you be cut down in the flower of your youth.

> Chrysalid
> A large ovoid cocoon with fleshy outer skin and pulsing veins, this venemous plant makes a Venus fly trap look like a petunia. These demonic seed pods are a greenhouse favorite throughout the horrible establishments you will traverse, and they're always on the lookout for fresh fertilizer. Their acid spit and whip-like tentacles will teach you to respect your vegetables.

> Cerberus
> The guardian of the gates of madness is a two-headed, fire-breathing, gut-chomping mastiff. By the time you reach its domain, rest assured that it will know of you and be ready to tango in the worst way. Remember that two heads are better than one--and you'll have to deal with both.

> Tchernobog--The One That Binds
> What is known of Him has been distilled from the rantings and whispers of madmen and sorcerors. All that is certain is that His dominion will soon encompass the dimensions of earth. He is the Dark God, the Devourer of Souls, the One That Binds, and should He manifest His dread presence among us, every creature living or dead shall learn the meaning of eternal servitude. Not pleasant.

Copyright 1996, Q Studios Corporation
Updated July 15, 1996.