Sphinx, Gynosphinx
- Armor Class
- -1 [20]
- Hit Dice
- 8 to 11
- Attacks
- Claw (1d6+1)
- Special
- spells, invisibility, rake (2d4)
- Move
- 21, Fly 36
- HDE/XP
- 10-13/1,400-2,300
Description
Sphinxes are mysterious beings, characterized by their large, feathered wings and lion-like bodies. While they are naturally protective of their territory, the more perceptive among them can discern between intentional intrusion and accidental or brief encroachment. On average, a sphinx measures around 10 feet in length and weighs approximately 800 pounds. Sphinxes have their own language, and generally also speak Common and Dragon.
The gynosphinx is the female variant of the sphinx, like the androsphinx is the male. In melee encounters, a gynosphinx unleashes its formidable claws to tear into its foes. However, it tends to shy away from conflict whenever it can, despite its lethal capabilities. It is avaricious, but prefers gems and jewelry over coins when given a choice.
On a roll of 20 on a d20 with a claw attack, a gynosphinx may attempt an additional rake attack with its hind claws for 2d4 points of damage. The rake may be attempted only after such a roll.
A gynosphinx has superior senses; each has the effect of both Detect Magic and Detect Invisibility at all times (no need to cast a spell). It also has great wisdom and understanding, such that each gynosphinx has the effect of both Read Languages and Read Magic at all times. One can, for example, literally pick up an unknown Magic-user scroll and immediately use it.
In addition to these abilities, a gynosphinx has a number of spell-like powers which can be employed once per day each: Crystal Ball (Clairaudience only) (as the potion), Crystal Ball (Clairvoyance only), Dispel Magic, Locate Object, and Remove Curse, all of which are cast at 7th-level of ability.
See Also
Other creatures grouped under Sphinx: Sphinx, Androsphinx, Sphinx, Criosphinx, Sphinx, Hieracosphinx.
Source note: This creature is converted from The Basic Fantasy Field Guide of Creatures Malevolent and Benign – Omnibus Edition, 1st Edition Release 4, © 2010–2025 Chris Gonnerman, R. Kevin Smoot, James Lemon, Matt Sluis, and Contributors. The Basic Fantasy Field Guide textual material is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International; this page adapts that creature to White Box.