Shell defender

Overview

Shell defenders never start combat because of proximity. Getting very close only earns a warning.

• Only damage activates them — and only against the attacker; neighbours stay calm.
• Shell guard: they hunker behind the shell, which takes physical blows much better, but they cannot attack or move while guarding. An opening follows when they emerge.
• Flipped: a severe stagger turns one over. On its back it cannot guard or attack and its underside is exposed, until it rights itself.

See also: creature behaviour.