Lore24 Mar 12: The Iron Crab

Some say that the Iron Crab was the first being created by Pafatra, Patroness of Craftsmen. Others say it predates even the creation of the world itself. Whatever the case, this gigantic metallic crustacean is incredibly ancient, and very mysterious.

Standing at almost three meters high, and covered in an iron carapace, the Iron Crab is an impressive sight. It cannot speak, but it seems to understand most languages. It is also, unexplainably, an incredibly talented blacksmith. Unlike mortal smiths, it doesn’t need a forge or hammers, it can just pick up any piece of metal in its claws, and shape it however it wants. It is also willing to use this talent on behalf of mortals, if they can provide something it wants. Though negotiations are a bit difficult, many Sorcerer-Kings and legendary heroes have sought out the Crab to have items commissioned from it, for it can create many wonders of metallurgy that are beyond the ability of even the best mortal smiths.

The Iron Crab is always on the move, never staying in one place for long. To find it, most people resort to asking some kind of oracle or mystic, but there is also a small cult dedicated to following in the footsteps and the example of the Iron Crab, and its adherents generally have more accurate information about its whereabouts than anyone else.

Image by Craig Cook

 

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