Werebear, Bear Form

The Werebear in its bear form is a formidable and fearsome sight to behold. Combining the strength and ferocity of a bear with the curse of lycanthropy, the Werebear is a shape-shifting creature that embodies both the power of nature and the curse of the moon.

In its bear form, the Werebear retains the size and physical attributes of a full-grown bear, standing tall on four massive legs. Its fur can range in color from brown to black, often with a wild and unkempt appearance. Its snout is elongated, lined with sharp teeth, and its eyes bear an unmistakable glimmer of intelligence mixed with primal instinct.

The Werebear’s strength in bear form is exceptional, allowing it to tear through foes with its powerful claws and deliver bone-crushing bites. Its massive paws can swat aside enemies with ease, while its thick hide provides a measure of natural protection. Its senses are heightened, granting it acute awareness of its surroundings and making it an expert hunter and tracker.

While the Werebear possesses a formidable physical presence, it also retains aspects of its human intellect and morality. It has the ability to retain control over its actions and maintain a sense of honor and compassion. Unlike mindless beasts, the Werebear can choose to use its immense power for noble purposes, defending the innocent and preserving the balance of nature.

Engaging with a Werebear in its bear form requires caution and skill. Its raw strength and primal fury can overwhelm those who underestimate its capabilities. However, unlike mindless beasts, it can be reasoned with and may even aid adventurers in their quests if their goals align with the preservation of nature or the defense of the innocent.

Encountering a Werebear in its bear form is to face a creature that embodies the untamed power and duality of nature and humanity. Its presence exudes an aura of primal strength, tempered by a sense of wisdom and the echoes of a human soul. Engaging with a Werebear requires respect for its wild nature, understanding of its struggle with the curse of lycanthropy, and the ability to prove oneself as an ally rather than a threat. Only those with the necessary skill, compassion, and respect for nature can forge a bond with this enigmatic creature.

Werebears in their bear form bring a touch of wild majesty, the duality of man and beast, and the intrinsic connection between nature and the supernatural to the tapestry of the world. They serve as reminders of the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world, as well as the potential for redemption even in the face of a cursed existence. Whether encountered as guardians of sacred groves, protectors of the innocent, or as enigmatic allies in the wilderness, Werebears in their bear form add a sense of primal strength, untamed power, and the enigmatic presence of the shape-shifter to the realms of adventure and exploration.

Special Abilities

Shapechanger

The werebear can use its action to polymorph into a Large bear-humanoid hybrid or into a Large bear, or back into its true form, which is humanoid. Its statistics, other than its size and AC, are the same in each form. Any equipment it is wearing or carrying isn’t transformed. It reverts to its true form if it dies.

Keen Smell

The werebear has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on smell.

Actions

• Multiattack: In bear form, the werebear makes two claw attacks. In humanoid form, it makes two greataxe attacks. In hybrid form, it can attack like a bear or a humanoid.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (2d10 + 4) piercing damage. If the target is a humanoid, it must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or be cursed with werebear lycanthropy.
• Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) slashing damage.

Proficiencies

• Skill: Perception +7