Invertebrate. The brain crawler can move through a space the size of a Small creature without squeezing, unless it is being ridden by an Elder Brain. In that case, it can move through a space sized for a Large creature without squeezing.
Magic Resistance. The Brain Crawler has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
Magic Weapons. The Brain Crawler's weapon attacks are magical.
Chameleon Skin. The brain crawler can change the color and texture of its flesh to match the color and texture of its surroundings. As a result, it has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide.
Ink Cloud. (Recharges after a Short or Long Rest). A 40- foot-radius cloud of ink extends all around the brain crawler. The area is heavily obscured for 1 minute, although a significant wind or current can disperse the ink. After releasing the ink, the brain crawler can use the Dash action as a bonus action. The Brain Crawler and the Elder Brain within can see normally through this ink.
Multiattack. The Brain Crawler makes two Tentacles attacks.
Tentacles. Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 19 (3d8 + 6) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a creature, the brain crawler may choose to impose the grappled condition (escape DC 18). Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained, and the brain crawler can't use its tentacles on another target.
Description
The Brain Crawler is a huge aberration grown in Mind Flayer bio-engineering vats. It appears as a giant floating eleven-armed octopoid creature, with deep purple or dark grey rubbery flesh and writhing tentacles. Where a head bulge would be is a clear bubble membrane within which an Elder Brain may ride and use the brain crawler as a horrifying war mount. The Elder Brain can freely pass through this membrane.
Once inside, the elder brain establishes a telepathic connection to the brain crawler and controls it as if it were part of its own body, allowing it to function as a trained war mount, which acts on the elder brain's turn. This counts as one of the creatures the elder brain may maintain contact with using its Telepathic Hub ability. The brain crawler can be allowed to act independently, at the elder brain's discretion, if it needs to connect with an additional creature.
The inside of the membrane is an aqueous fluid that comfortably maintains the elder brain and protects it. The membrane provides total cover to the elder brain inside, except that it can still be seen clearly inside the fluid. The elder brain may not use its own Tentacle attack while riding the brain crawler, but it may use its other abilities normally.
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