Zergling (4e Monster)

Zerglings form the most numerous of the zerg strains; their simple DNA allows two zerglings to be spawned from a single larva. The larvae get the genetic information from the "primordial ooze" of spawning pools. As the smallest zerg strain apart from the larvae and unstable broodlings, zerglings are one meter tall and possess webbed feet. Further mutations may be made to zergling DNA, frequently altering their physiology through a metabolic boost to increase their reflexes and rate of movement and enhancement of their adrenal glands to alter their hormonal balance, inducing a battle frenzy.

Zerglings are physically adaptable creatures, able to attain extraordinary speeds, even while climbing near-vertical surfaces. Usually, zergling eyes fall in the range of orange to red, but can appear pure black courtesy of expanding pupils which allow them to see in extreme low-light conditions.1

Zergling Tactics
Zerglings are quick to join the fray, charging to stike the nearest enemy, but are driven by their own cruel cunning, even when not directed by a greater intelligence. If more than three zerglings are engaging an enemy, others will disengage and charge another foe. Groups will attempt to flank enemies to gain an advantage and cut off retreat. Their prey find it nearly impossible to get past their lunging claws and bodies once they've been surrounded. Even so, their attacks are little more than an artless blur of frenzied slashing, as they do not select priority targets, tearing into whatever is nearest.

Zergling Horde Tactics
A zergling horde acts similarly to a smaller group at first. They will either lie in wait until prey approaches or, if caught in the open, charge directly into battle. However, they then attempt to surround a single foe, dragging it to ground while striking at as many others as possilbe. Unless directed by a higher intelligence, they do not chose priority targets, merely positioning themselves to cause as much mayhem as physically possible.

Winged Zergling Tactics
Winged zerglings act much as their lesser kin, only more swiftly. Using their nearly-vestigal wings to perform long leaps, they launch themselves into the fray, sending their unfortunate prey sprawling.

Frenzied Zergling Horde Tactics
Once they abandons stealth, the horde charges their prey, immediately moving to engulf the poor unfortunate and crush it under their weight of numbers. In subsequent rounds, the horde will perform flowing offensives in an effort to pull more victims into its midst. Once a victim is imobilized, the zerglings will focus their weight on others, to trap as many as possible.

Devouring One Tactics
Devouring ones are a terror on the battlefield, often entering combat by leaping upon their enemies, bearing them to ground. Typically out-numbering their prey, these terrors will surround their prey and slash their hamstrings in battle frenzy, preventing any escape. Worse still, they almost never attack alone, accompanying even more horrifying zerg allies.

Zergling Lore
A character knows the following information with a successful Arcana check.
 * DC 15: Zerglings are a smaller, yet very numerous, breed of Zerg. They attack with their razor-sharp, sickle-like talons, viciously tearing prey to pieces. They are seldom encountered in groups fewer than six -- more often than not running in packs of several dozen.
 * DC 20: Zerglings will sometimes set up ambushes, digging shallow holes in loose earth and leaping out to suprise prey as it draws near. Established hive clusters often have enhanced zerglings sporting nearly-vestigal wings that enhance their mobility, allowing them to run faster and leap farther.
 * DC 25: Zerglings are sometimes further enhanced by powerful hive clusters, making them a threat to even the most hardened adventurers. Vast swarms of them are found in any true zerg stronghold.

Encounter Groups
Zerglings are encountered in groups with other zerg or infested creatures.

Level 11 Encounter (XP 3,100)

 * 4 Winged zerglings
 * 3 Hydralisks
 * 2 Zergling hordes