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{{Infobox DnD creature
|image=[[image:glabreazu.jpg|250px]]
|caption= Glabrezu from [http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/MM35_gallery/MM35_PG48.jpg Wizards.com]
|name=Glabrezu
|alignment=Chaotic Evil
|type=Outsider
|subtype=[[Demon (Dungeons and Dragons)|Demon]]
|source= Eldritch Wizardry<br>Monster Manual<br>Monstrous Compendium Volume Outer Planes Appendix<br>Monstrous Manual
|first= Eldritch Wizardry
|mythical=
|based=
|wizards_image_URL=http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/MM35_gallery/MM35_PG48.jpg
|OGL_stats_URL=http://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsters/demon.htm#glabrezu
}}


'''Glabrezu''' in the ''Dungeons and Dragons'' fantasy role playing game, is one of the most powerful types of [[Demon (Dungeons and Dragons)|demons]].  In first edition ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons'', glabrezu were known as '''type III demons'''.  In second edition ''AD&D'', the name "type III demon" was changed to "glabrezu".


''This entry is in the SuccuWiki for the sake of completeness with the Dungeons and Dragons universe.''


==Characteristics==
Glabrezu tempt their victims into ruin by luring them with power or wealth.  These demons are as tall as giants, with broad, muscular bodies.  Two of its four arms end in clawed hands and two end in powerful pincers.  Its doglike head is horned and its muzzle is full of sharp teeth. Glabrezus rank second behind the [[Succubus (Dungeons and Dragons)|Succubus]] in terms of demons that tempt and corrupt mortals. Unlike them, the glabrezu does not offer pleasures of the flesh but offers power, wealth, and respect undreamed of by even the most ambitious person. Glabrezus are unable to change (or ''polymorph'') their frightening appearance, so they usually visit mortals in secret. They are most commonly summoned directly by a mortal (such as ambitious human wizards or drow priestesses) who hopes to make bargains. Sometimes they find a potential victim on their own, presenting their "gift" to this person whether or not they want it. In some cases, glabrezus never reveal themselves to a person, relying on their telepathy to speak directly in the victim's mind. They may be direct about their nature or make the person believe he is going insane.


The unholy union between an ascending high priestess of the drow goddess [[Lolth]] and a glabrezu results in a draegloth.


[[image:glabreazu.jpg|right|thumb|300px|An image of Glabrezu from the Wizards.com website. The original source of this image is: http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/MM35_gallery/MM35_PG48.jpg]]


==Known Glabrezus==
[[Image:Pic dri9 lg .JPG|thumb|200px|right|Drizzt Do'Urden doing battle with a Glabrezu]]


In the ''Dungeons & Dragons'' fantasy role-playing game, the '''glabrezu''' is one of the most powerful types of [[Demon (Dungeons and Dragons)|demon]]. In first edition ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons'', glabrezu were known as '''type III demons'''.  From second edition ''AD&D'', the name "type III demon" was revised to "glabrezu".
*Belshazu:<ref>{{cite book | title=War of the Spider Queen Book V: Annihilation | first=Philip|last=Athans| isbn= 0-7869-3752-1 | year = 2005 | publisher= Wizard of the Coast}}</ref> Summoned by Triel Baenre, and coupled with her so that Triel bore the demon's seed, and produced a half-drow/half-demon child, Jeggred the draegloth. When Belshazu and Jeggred later confronted, there was no fatherly recognition between, and the former taunted the latter. Jeggred would have attacked were it not for his masters' command. Belshazu was finally killed (possibly permanently) by Pharaun Mizzyrm, while on the plane of infinite portals. He was utterly destroyed by a combination of spells ending in a high-level casting of banshee wail.


==Publication history==
*G'oud'neejh<ref>{{cite book | title = In the Abyss p18}}</ref>
The glabrezu was one of the earliest creatures introduced in the D&D game.


===Dungeons & Dragons (1974-1976)===
*Mizferac:<ref>{{cite book | title =Servant of the Shard | first=R. A.|last=Salvatore| year = 2000 | isbn = 0-7869-1657-5 | publisher = Wizard of the Coast}}</ref> A glabrezu summoned by the goodly priest Cadderly for information concerning Crenshinibon. For threatening to harm the cleric's children, Cadderly dispelled the ward surrounding Mizferac's summon circle, killed the demon, and summoned it back the next day.
The '''type III demon''' appeared under the '''demon''' entry in the ''Eldritch Wizardry'' supplement (1976).<ref>Gygax, Gary; Blume, Brian (1976), Eldritch Wizardry (1 ed.), TSR</ref>


===Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st edition (1977-1988)===
*Bizmatec:<ref>{{cite book | title = Passage to Dawn | first=R. A.|last=Salvatore| year = 1997 | isbn = 0-7869-0750-9 | publisher = Wizard of the Coast}}</ref> A glabrezu summoned by Errtu the balor for the purpose of dealing with Drizzt, and was later killed by Catti-brie.
The type III demon (glabrezu) appears in the first edition Monster Manual (1977).<ref>Gygax, Gary. ''Monster Manual'' (TSR, 1977)</ref>


===Dungeons & Dragons (1977-1999)===
*Nabthatoron:<ref>{{cite book | title = Shackled City Adventure Path |first=Jesse|last=Decker |isbn = 0-9770071-0-3 |publisher = Paizo Publishing, LLC |year = 2005 | author-separator = , | display-authors = 1
This edition of the D&D game included its own version of the type III demon, which is known as the '''howling demon''', first appearing in the ''Immortal Rules'' set, in the DM's Guide to Immortals (1986).<ref>Mentzer, Frank. ''Dungeons & Dragons Set 5: Immortal Rules'' (TSR, 1986)</ref> The howling lesser fiend appeared in the ''Wrath of the Immortals'' set, in "Book One: Codex of the Immortals" (1992).<ref>Allston, Aaron. ''Wrath of the Immortals'' (TSR, 1992)</ref>
}}</ref> This glabrezu and his retinue were a part of an invasion force defeated at Redgorge by Surabar Spellmason and his allies.  Held responsible by an unknown demon lord, Nabthatoron was banished to the prime material plane for as long as Redgorge remained unconquered. He remains as lord of the Demonskar.


===Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd edition (1989-1999)===
*Sinmaker<ref>{{cite book | title = Manual of the Planes | isbn = 0-7869-1850-0 | year = 2001 | publisher = Wizard of the Coast | first=Jeff|last=Grubb}}</ref>
In this edition, demons became known as '''tanar'ri''', and this creature officially became known as the '''glabrezu''', a "true tanar'ri", appearing first in the ''Monstrous Compendium Volume Outer Planes Appendix'' (1991), and then reprinted in the Monstrous Manual (1993).<ref>Stewart, Doug, ed. ''Monstrous Manual'' (TSR, 1993)</ref>


The glabrezu true tanar'ri also appeared for the Planescape campaign setting in the first ''Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix'' (1994).<ref>Varney, Allen, ed. ''Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix'' (TSR, 1994)</ref>
*Tanetal:<ref>{{cite book| title = Pools of Darkness (Forgotten Realms Fantasy Adventure)| first = James M. | last = Ward | isbn = 1-56076-318-3| year = 1992| publisher=Wizard of the Coast| author-separator = ,| display-authors = 1}}</ref> Bane's servant, residing in then sleeping Moander's body in the astral plane.


===Dungeons & Dragons 3.0 edition (2000-2002)===
*Ykkandri<ref>{{cite book | title = Book of Vile Darkness | isbn= 0-7869-2650-3 | author = Monte Cook et al.
The glabrezu (tanar'ri) appears in the Monster Manual for this edition (2000);<ref>Cook, Monte, Jonathan Tweet, and Skip Williams. ''Monster Manual'' (Wizards of the Coast, 2000)</ref> in this edition, the name '''demon''' is resumed, and tanar'ri are now considered a sub-type of demon.
| publisher=Wizard of the Coast | year = 2002 }}</ref>


===Dungeons & Dragons 3.5 edition (2003-2007)===
The glabrezu appears in the revised Monster Manual for this edition (2003).


===Dungeons & Dragons 4th edition (2008-)===
==Statistics==
The glabrezu appears in the Monster Manual for this edition (2008), again under the '''demon''' entry.<ref>Mearls, Mike, Stephen Schubert, and James Wyatt. ''Monster Manual'' (Wizards of the Coast, 2008)</ref>
<center>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|+ '''Glabrezu'''
|-
| '''Name''' || Glabrezu
|-
| '''Size/Type''' || Huge Outsider (Chaotic, Extraplanar, Evil)
|-
| '''Hit Dice''' || 12d8+120 (174 hp)
|-
| '''Initiative''' || +0
|-
| '''Speed''' || 40 ft. (8 squares)
|-
| '''Armor Class''' || 27 (-2 size, +19 natural), touch 8, flat-footed 27
|-
| '''Base Attack/Grapple''' || +12/+30
|-
| '''Attack''' || Pincers +20 melee (2d8+10)
|-
| '''Full Attack''' || 2 pincers +20 melee (2d8+10) '''and''' 2 claws +18 melee (1d6+5)<br>'''and''' bite +18 melee (1d8+5)
|-
| '''Space/Reach''' || 15 ft./15 ft.
|-
| '''Special Attacks''' || Improved grab, spell-like abilities, summon demon
|-
| '''Special Qualities''' || Damage reduction 10/good, darkvision 60 ft.<br>immunity to electricity and poison, resistance to acid 10, cold 10, and fire 10<br>spell resistance 21, telepathy 100 ft., true seeing
|-
| '''Saves''' || Fort +18, Ref +8, Will +11
|-
| '''Abilities''' || Str 31, Dex 10, Con 31, Int 16, Wis 16, Cha 20
|-
| '''Skills''' || Bluff +22, Concentration +25, Diplomacy +9, Disguise +5 (+7 acting), Intimidate +24,<br>Knowledge (any two) +18, Listen +26, Move Silently +15, Search +18, Sense Motive +18,<br>Spellcraft +18, Spot +26, Survival +3 (+5 following tracks)
|-
| '''Feats''' || Cleave, Great Cleave, Multiattack, Persuasive, Power Attack
|-
| '''Environment''' || A chaotic evil-aligned plane
|-
| '''Organization''' || Solitary or troupe (1 glabrezu, 1 succubus, and 2-5 vrocks)
|-
| '''Challenge Rating''' || 13
|-
| '''Treasure''' || Standard coins; double goods; standard items
|-
| '''Alignment''' || Always chaotic evil
|-
| '''Advancement''' || 13-18 HD (Huge); 19-36 HD (Gargantuan)
|-
| '''Level Adjustment''' || —
|}
</center>


==Nature==
Glabrezu tempt their victims into ruin by luring them with power or wealth.  These demons are as tall as giants, with broad, muscular bodies.  Two of its four arms end in clawed hands and two end in powerful pincers.  Its doglike head is horned and its muzzle is full of sharp teeth. Glabrezus rank second behind the [[Succubus (Dungeons and Dragons)|succubus]] in terms of demons that tempt and corrupt mortals. Unlike them, the glabrezu does not offer pleasures of the flesh but offers power, wealth, and respect undreamed of by even the most ambitious person. Strangely, glabrezus are unable to change (or ''polymorph'') their frightening appearance, so they usually visit mortals in secret. They are most commonly summoned directly by a mortal (such as ambitious human wizards or drow priestesses) who hopes to make bargain. Sometimes they find a potential victim on their own, presenting their "gift" to this person whether or not they want it. In some cases, glabrezus never reveal themselves to a person, relying on their telepathy to speak directly in the victim's mind. They may be direct about their nature or make the person believe he is going insane.


The unholy union between an ascending high priestess of the drow goddess [[Lolth]] and a glabrezu results in a draegloth.
<center>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|+  Spell-Like Abilities - Caster level 14th <small>(Save DCs are Charisma-based)</small>
|-
| '''At will''' || Chaos Hammer (DC 19), Confusion (DC 19), Dispel Magic, Mirror Image,<br>Reverse Gravity (DC 22), Greater Teleport (Self plus 50 pounds of objects only),<br>Unholy Blight (DC 19)
|-
| '''1/day''' || Power Word Stun
|}
</center>


==Known Glabrezus==
[[Image:Pic dri9 lg .JPG|thumb|200px|right|Drizzt doing battle with a Glabrezu.]]


*Belshazu<ref>Philip Athans (2005). War of the Spider Queen Book V: Annihilation. Wizard of the Coast. ISBN 0-7869-3752-1.</ref>: Summoned by Triel Baenre, and coupled with her so that Triel bore the demon's seed, and produced a half-drow/half-demon child, Jeggred the draegloth. When Belshazu and Jeggred later confronted, there was no fatherly recognition between, and the former taunted the latter. Jeggred would have attacked were it not for his masters' command. Belshazu was finally killed (possibly permanently) by Pharaun Mizzyrm,  while on the plane of infinite portals. He was utterly destroyed by a combination of spells ending in a high-level casting of banshee wail.  
*'''Improved Grab (Ex)''': To use this ability, a glabrezu must hit a Medium or smaller opponent with a pincer attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a free action without provoking an attack of opportunity.


*G'oud'neejh<ref>In the Abyss p18.</ref>
*'''Summon Demon (Sp)''': Once per day a glabrezu can attempt to summon 4d10 dretches or 1d2 vrocks with a 50% chance of success, or another glabrezu with a 20% chance of success. This ability is the equivalent of a 4th-level spell.


*Mizferac<ref>R. A. Salvatore (2000). Servant of the Shard. Wizard of the Coast. ISBN 0-7869-1657-5.</ref>:  A glabrezu summoned by the goodly priest Cadderly for information concern Crenshinibon. For threatening to harm the cleric's children, Cadderly dispelled the ward surrounding Mizferac's summon circle, killed the demon, and summoned it back the next day.
*'''True Seeing (Su)''': Glabrezu continuously use true seeing as the spell (caster level 14th).


*Bizmatec<ref>R. A. Salvatore (1997). Passage to Dawn. Wizard of the Coast. ISBN 0-7869-0750-9.</ref> :A glabrezu summoned by Errtu the balor for the purpose of dealing with Drizzt, and was later killed by Catti-brie.
*'''Skills''': Glabrezu have a +8 racial bonus on Listen and Spot checks.


*Nabthatoron<ref>
*'''Combat''': Glabrezu prefer subterfuge to combat. However, if their attempts to entice or deceive fail, these enormous demons attack with a vengeance. They follow a confusion attack with melee attacks, hoping to finish off wounded foes with chaos hammer or unholy blight. A glabrezu’s natural weapons, as well as any weapons it wields, are treated as chaotic-aligned and evil-aligned for the purpose of overcoming damage reduction.
Jesse Decker et al. (2005). Shackled City Adventure Path. Paizo Publishing, LLC. ISBN 0-9770071-0-3.</ref>: This glabrezu and his retinue were a part of an invasion force defeated at Redgorge by Surabar Spellmason and his allies. Held responsible by an unknown demon lord, Nabthatoron was banished to the prime material plane for as long as Redgorge remained unconquered.  He remains as lord of the Demonskar.


*Sinmaker<ref>Jeff Grubb (2001). Manual of the Planes. Wizard of the Coast. ISBN 0-7869-1850-0.</ref>
*Like [[Succubus (Dungeons and Dragons)|Succubi]], glabrezu tempt victims into ruin, but they lure their prey with power or wealth rather than passion.
*Tanetal<ref>James M. Ward et al. (1992). Pools of Darkness (Forgotten Realms Fantasy Adventure). Wizard of the Coast. ISBN 1-56076-318-3.
</ref>:  Bane's servant, residing in then sleeping Moander's body in the astral plane.  


*Ykkandri<ref>Monte Cook er al. (2002). Book of Vile Darkness. Wizard of the Coast. ISBN 0-7869-2650-3.</ref>
*Glabrezu have penetrating violet eyes, and their skin color ranges from deep russet to pitch black. A glabrezu stands about 15 feet tall and weighs about 5,500 pounds.
 
==Other media==
The glabrezu appears in the D&D Miniatures: Giants of Legend set (2004).


*Once per month, a glabrezu can fulfill a wish for a mortal humanoid. The demon can use this ability to offer a mortal whatever he or she desires—but unless the wish is used to create pain and suffering in the world, the glabrezu demands either terrible evil acts or great sacrifice as compensation.




== Statistics ==
==Publication History==
The glabrezu was one of the earliest creatures introduced in the ''D&D'' game.


*'''Size/Type:'''  Huge Outsider (Chaotic, Extraplanar, Evil)
;Dungeons & Dragons (1974–1976)
*'''Hit Dice:''' 12d8+120 (174 hp)
The '''type III demon''' appeared under the '''demon''' entry in the ''Eldritch Wizardry'' supplement (1976).<ref>{{Cite journal | last =Gygax  | first =Gary  |  last2 =Blume  | first2 =Brian  |  title =Eldritch Wizardry  | place=  | publisher =TSR  | year =1976  | location =Lake Geneva, WI  | edition =1 | postscript =<!--None-->}}</ref>
*'''Initiative:''' +0
*'''Speed:''' 40 ft. (8 squares)
*'''Armor Class:''' 27 (-2 size, +19 natural), touch 8, flat-footed 27
*'''Base Attack/Grapple:''' +12/+30
*'''Attack:''' Pincers +20 melee (2d8+10)
*'''Full Attack:''' 2 pincers +20 melee (2d8+10) and 2 claws +18 melee (1d6+5) and bite +18 melee (1d8+5)
*'''Space/Reach:''' 15 ft./15 ft.
*'''Special Attacks:''' Improved grab, spell-like abilities, summon demon
*'''Special Qualities:''' Damage reduction 10/good, darkvision 60 ft., immunity to electricity and poison, resistance to acid 10, cold 10, and fire 10, spell resistance 21, telepathy 100 ft., true seeing
*'''Saves:''' Fort +18, Ref +8, Will +11
*'''Abilities:''' Str 31, Dex 10, Con 31, Int 16, Wis 16, Cha 20
*'''Skills:''' Bluff +22, Concentration +25, Diplomacy +9, Disguise +5 (+7 acting), Intimidate +24, Knowledge (any two) +18, Listen +26, Move Silently +15, Search +18, Sense Motive +18, Spellcraft +18, Spot +26, Survival +3 (+5 following tracks)
*'''Feats:''' Cleave, Great Cleave, Multiattack, Persuasive, Power Attack
*'''Environment:''' A chaotic evil-aligned plane
*'''Organization:''' Solitary or troupe (1 glabrezu, 1 succubus, and 2-5 vrocks)
*'''Challenge Rating:''' 13
*'''Treasure:''' Standard coins; double goods; standard items
*'''Alignment:''' Always chaotic evil
*'''Advancement:''' 13-18 HD (Huge); 19-36 HD (Gargantuan)
*'''Level Adjustment:''' —


;Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st edition (1977–1988)
The type III demon (glabrezu) appears in the first edition ''Monster Manual'' (1977).<ref>Gygax, Gary. ''Monster Manual'' (TSR, 1977)</ref>


*Like succubi, glabrezu tempt victims into ruin, but they lure their prey with power or wealth rather than passion.
;Dungeons & Dragons (1977–1999)
This edition of the ''D&D'' game included its own version of the type III demon, which is known as the '''howling demon''', first appearing in the ''Immortal Rules'' set, in the DM's Guide to Immortals (1986).<ref>Mentzer, Frank. ''Dungeons & Dragons Set 5: Immortal Rules'' (TSR, 1986)</ref> The howling lesser fiend appeared in the ''Wrath of the Immortals'' set, in "Book One: Codex of the Immortals" (1992).<ref>Allston, Aaron. ''Wrath of the Immortals'' (TSR, 1992)</ref>


*Glabrezu have penetrating violet eyes, and their skin color ranges from deep russet to pitch black. A glabrezu stands about 15 feet tall and weighs about 5,500 pounds.
;Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd edition (1989–1999)
In this edition, demons became known as '''[[Tanar'ri]]''', and this creature officially became known as the '''glabrezu''', a "true tanar'ri", appearing first in the ''Monstrous Compendium Volume Outer Planes Appendix'' (1991),<ref>LaFountain, J. Paul. ''Monstrous Compendium Outer Planes Appendix''. (TSR, 1991)</ref> and then reprinted in the ''Monstrous Manual'' (1993).<ref>Stewart, Doug, ed. ''Monstrous Manual'' (TSR, 1993)</ref>


The glabrezu true tanar'ri also appeared for the Planescape campaign setting in the first ''Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix'' (1994).<ref>Varney, Allen, ed. ''Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix'' (TSR, 1994)</ref>


===Combat===
;Dungeons & Dragons 3.0 edition (2000–2002)
Glabrezu prefer subterfuge to combat. However, if their attempts to entice or deceive fail, these enormous demons attack with a vengeance. They follow a confusion attack with melee attacks, hoping to finish off wounded foes with chaos hammer or unholy blight.
The glabrezu (tanar'ri) appears in the ''Monster Manual'' for this edition (2000);<ref>Cook, Monte, Jonathan Tweet, and Skip Williams. ''Monster Manual'' (Wizards of the Coast, 2000)</ref> in this edition, the name '''demon''' is resumed, and tanar'ri are now considered a sub-type of demon.


A glabrezu’s natural weapons, as well as any weapons it wields, are treated as chaotic-aligned and evil-aligned for the purpose of overcoming damage reduction.
;Dungeons & Dragons 3.5 edition (2003–2007)
The glabrezu appears in the revised ''Monster Manual'' for this edition (2003).


*'''Improved Grab (Ex):''' To use this ability, a glabrezu must hit a Medium or smaller opponent with a pincer attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a free action without provoking an attack of opportunity.
;Dungeons & Dragons 4th edition (2008-)
The glabrezu appears in the ''Monster Manual'' for this edition (2008), again under the '''demon''' entry.<ref>Mearls, Mike, Stephen Schubert, and James Wyatt. ''Monster Manual'' (Wizards of the Coast, 2008)</ref>


*'''Spell-Like Abilities:''' At will—chaos hammer (DC 19), confusion (DC 19), dispel magic, mirror image, reverse gravity (DC 22), greater teleport (self plus 50 pounds of objects only), unholy blight (DC 19); 1/day—power word stun. Caster level 14th. The save DCs are Charisma-based.


Once per month, a glabrezu can fulfill a wish for a mortal humanoid. The demon can use this ability to offer a mortal whatever he or she desires—but unless the wish is used to create pain and suffering in the world, the glabrezu demands either terrible evil acts or great sacrifice as compensation.
==Other Media==
The glabrezu appears in the D&D Miniatures: Giants of Legend set (2004).


*'''Summon Demon (Sp):''' Once per day a glabrezu can attempt to summon 4d10 dretches or 1d2 vrocks with a 50% chance of success, or another glabrezu with a 20% chance of success. This ability is the equivalent of a 4th-level spell.
*'''True Seeing (Su):''' Glabrezu continuously use true seeing as the spell (caster level 14th).
*'''Skills:''' Glabrezu have a +8 racial bonus on Listen and Spot checks.


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


==External links==
 
*[http://d20npcs.wikia.com/wiki/D%26D_Named_Demon_Project#Glabrezu_.28Type_III_demon.29 known glabrezus] at the d20 NPC Wiki
==External Links==
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glabrezu The original source of this page at Wikipedia]
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glabrezu The original source of this article at Wikipedia]
*[http://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsters/demon.htm#glabrezu Source of stats on this page from D20SRD.org]

Latest revision as of 13:05, 13 September 2014

Glabrezu
Glabreazu.jpg
Glabrezu from Wizards.com
Characteristics
Alignment Chaotic Evil
Type Outsider (Demon)
Image Wizards.com image
Stats Open Game License stats
Publication history
Source books Eldritch Wizardry
Monster Manual
Monstrous Compendium Volume Outer Planes Appendix
Monstrous Manual
First appearance Eldritch Wizardry

Glabrezu in the Dungeons and Dragons fantasy role playing game, is one of the most powerful types of demons. In first edition Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, glabrezu were known as type III demons. In second edition AD&D, the name "type III demon" was changed to "glabrezu".


Characteristics

Glabrezu tempt their victims into ruin by luring them with power or wealth. These demons are as tall as giants, with broad, muscular bodies. Two of its four arms end in clawed hands and two end in powerful pincers. Its doglike head is horned and its muzzle is full of sharp teeth. Glabrezus rank second behind the Succubus in terms of demons that tempt and corrupt mortals. Unlike them, the glabrezu does not offer pleasures of the flesh but offers power, wealth, and respect undreamed of by even the most ambitious person. Glabrezus are unable to change (or polymorph) their frightening appearance, so they usually visit mortals in secret. They are most commonly summoned directly by a mortal (such as ambitious human wizards or drow priestesses) who hopes to make bargains. Sometimes they find a potential victim on their own, presenting their "gift" to this person whether or not they want it. In some cases, glabrezus never reveal themselves to a person, relying on their telepathy to speak directly in the victim's mind. They may be direct about their nature or make the person believe he is going insane.

The unholy union between an ascending high priestess of the drow goddess Lolth and a glabrezu results in a draegloth.


Known Glabrezus

Drizzt Do'Urden doing battle with a Glabrezu
  • Belshazu:[1] Summoned by Triel Baenre, and coupled with her so that Triel bore the demon's seed, and produced a half-drow/half-demon child, Jeggred the draegloth. When Belshazu and Jeggred later confronted, there was no fatherly recognition between, and the former taunted the latter. Jeggred would have attacked were it not for his masters' command. Belshazu was finally killed (possibly permanently) by Pharaun Mizzyrm, while on the plane of infinite portals. He was utterly destroyed by a combination of spells ending in a high-level casting of banshee wail.
  • Mizferac:[3] A glabrezu summoned by the goodly priest Cadderly for information concerning Crenshinibon. For threatening to harm the cleric's children, Cadderly dispelled the ward surrounding Mizferac's summon circle, killed the demon, and summoned it back the next day.
  • Bizmatec:[4] A glabrezu summoned by Errtu the balor for the purpose of dealing with Drizzt, and was later killed by Catti-brie.
  • Nabthatoron:[5] This glabrezu and his retinue were a part of an invasion force defeated at Redgorge by Surabar Spellmason and his allies. Held responsible by an unknown demon lord, Nabthatoron was banished to the prime material plane for as long as Redgorge remained unconquered. He remains as lord of the Demonskar.
  • Tanetal:[7] Bane's servant, residing in then sleeping Moander's body in the astral plane.


Statistics

Glabrezu
Name Glabrezu
Size/Type Huge Outsider (Chaotic, Extraplanar, Evil)
Hit Dice 12d8+120 (174 hp)
Initiative +0
Speed 40 ft. (8 squares)
Armor Class 27 (-2 size, +19 natural), touch 8, flat-footed 27
Base Attack/Grapple +12/+30
Attack Pincers +20 melee (2d8+10)
Full Attack 2 pincers +20 melee (2d8+10) and 2 claws +18 melee (1d6+5)
and bite +18 melee (1d8+5)
Space/Reach 15 ft./15 ft.
Special Attacks Improved grab, spell-like abilities, summon demon
Special Qualities Damage reduction 10/good, darkvision 60 ft.
immunity to electricity and poison, resistance to acid 10, cold 10, and fire 10
spell resistance 21, telepathy 100 ft., true seeing
Saves Fort +18, Ref +8, Will +11
Abilities Str 31, Dex 10, Con 31, Int 16, Wis 16, Cha 20
Skills Bluff +22, Concentration +25, Diplomacy +9, Disguise +5 (+7 acting), Intimidate +24,
Knowledge (any two) +18, Listen +26, Move Silently +15, Search +18, Sense Motive +18,
Spellcraft +18, Spot +26, Survival +3 (+5 following tracks)
Feats Cleave, Great Cleave, Multiattack, Persuasive, Power Attack
Environment A chaotic evil-aligned plane
Organization Solitary or troupe (1 glabrezu, 1 succubus, and 2-5 vrocks)
Challenge Rating 13
Treasure Standard coins; double goods; standard items
Alignment Always chaotic evil
Advancement 13-18 HD (Huge); 19-36 HD (Gargantuan)
Level Adjustment —


Spell-Like Abilities - Caster level 14th (Save DCs are Charisma-based)
At will Chaos Hammer (DC 19), Confusion (DC 19), Dispel Magic, Mirror Image,
Reverse Gravity (DC 22), Greater Teleport (Self plus 50 pounds of objects only),
Unholy Blight (DC 19)
1/day Power Word Stun


  • Improved Grab (Ex): To use this ability, a glabrezu must hit a Medium or smaller opponent with a pincer attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a free action without provoking an attack of opportunity.
  • Summon Demon (Sp): Once per day a glabrezu can attempt to summon 4d10 dretches or 1d2 vrocks with a 50% chance of success, or another glabrezu with a 20% chance of success. This ability is the equivalent of a 4th-level spell.
  • True Seeing (Su): Glabrezu continuously use true seeing as the spell (caster level 14th).
  • Skills: Glabrezu have a +8 racial bonus on Listen and Spot checks.
  • Combat: Glabrezu prefer subterfuge to combat. However, if their attempts to entice or deceive fail, these enormous demons attack with a vengeance. They follow a confusion attack with melee attacks, hoping to finish off wounded foes with chaos hammer or unholy blight. A glabrezu’s natural weapons, as well as any weapons it wields, are treated as chaotic-aligned and evil-aligned for the purpose of overcoming damage reduction.
  • Like Succubi, glabrezu tempt victims into ruin, but they lure their prey with power or wealth rather than passion.
  • Glabrezu have penetrating violet eyes, and their skin color ranges from deep russet to pitch black. A glabrezu stands about 15 feet tall and weighs about 5,500 pounds.
  • Once per month, a glabrezu can fulfill a wish for a mortal humanoid. The demon can use this ability to offer a mortal whatever he or she desires—but unless the wish is used to create pain and suffering in the world, the glabrezu demands either terrible evil acts or great sacrifice as compensation.


Publication History

The glabrezu was one of the earliest creatures introduced in the D&D game.

Dungeons & Dragons (1974–1976)

The type III demon appeared under the demon entry in the Eldritch Wizardry supplement (1976).[9]

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st edition (1977–1988)

The type III demon (glabrezu) appears in the first edition Monster Manual (1977).[10]

Dungeons & Dragons (1977–1999)

This edition of the D&D game included its own version of the type III demon, which is known as the howling demon, first appearing in the Immortal Rules set, in the DM's Guide to Immortals (1986).[11] The howling lesser fiend appeared in the Wrath of the Immortals set, in "Book One: Codex of the Immortals" (1992).[12]

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd edition (1989–1999)

In this edition, demons became known as Tanar'ri, and this creature officially became known as the glabrezu, a "true tanar'ri", appearing first in the Monstrous Compendium Volume Outer Planes Appendix (1991),[13] and then reprinted in the Monstrous Manual (1993).[14]

The glabrezu true tanar'ri also appeared for the Planescape campaign setting in the first Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix (1994).[15]

Dungeons & Dragons 3.0 edition (2000–2002)

The glabrezu (tanar'ri) appears in the Monster Manual for this edition (2000);[16] in this edition, the name demon is resumed, and tanar'ri are now considered a sub-type of demon.

Dungeons & Dragons 3.5 edition (2003–2007)

The glabrezu appears in the revised Monster Manual for this edition (2003).

Dungeons & Dragons 4th edition (2008-)

The glabrezu appears in the Monster Manual for this edition (2008), again under the demon entry.[17]


Other Media

The glabrezu appears in the D&D Miniatures: Giants of Legend set (2004).


References

  1. ↑ Athans, Philip (2005). War of the Spider Queen Book V: Annihilation. Wizard of the Coast.
  2. ↑ In the Abyss p18.
  3. ↑ Salvatore, R. A. (2000). Servant of the Shard. Wizard of the Coast.
  4. ↑ Salvatore, R. A. (1997). Passage to Dawn. Wizard of the Coast.
  5. ↑ Decker, Jesse (2005). Shackled City Adventure Path. Paizo Publishing, LLC.
  6. ↑ Grubb, Jeff (2001). Manual of the Planes. Wizard of the Coast.
  7. ↑ Ward, James M. (1992). Pools of Darkness (Forgotten Realms Fantasy Adventure). Wizard of the Coast.
  8. ↑ Monte Cook et al. (2002). Book of Vile Darkness. Wizard of the Coast.
  9. ↑ Gygax, Gary (1976). "Eldritch Wizardry". Lake Geneva, WI: TSR. 
  10. ↑ Gygax, Gary. Monster Manual (TSR, 1977)
  11. ↑ Mentzer, Frank. Dungeons & Dragons Set 5: Immortal Rules (TSR, 1986)
  12. ↑ Allston, Aaron. Wrath of the Immortals (TSR, 1992)
  13. ↑ LaFountain, J. Paul. Monstrous Compendium Outer Planes Appendix. (TSR, 1991)
  14. ↑ Stewart, Doug, ed. Monstrous Manual (TSR, 1993)
  15. ↑ Varney, Allen, ed. Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix (TSR, 1994)
  16. ↑ Cook, Monte, Jonathan Tweet, and Skip Williams. Monster Manual (Wizards of the Coast, 2000)
  17. ↑ Mearls, Mike, Stephen Schubert, and James Wyatt. Monster Manual (Wizards of the Coast, 2008)


External Links

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