8. Instinct

What does the monster do that brings it into conflict with others, or leads it to harm others? Write this in the format "to [do something]."

Good instincts describe a general pattern of behavior rather than a specific action. "To gorge itself " is a good instinct; "to swallow prey whole" is too specific (that's more like a move). With that said, try to write instincts that are distinctive. "To hunt" is an okay instinct; "to relentlessly pursue its prey" is better.

It's possible that a monster might have multiple instincts, like a cave bear's "to fill its belly; to protect its young." Do this sparingly; it's best for nuanced monsters with conflicting motivations, or for monsters who are strongly ruled by their base natures.

The Almtakers guard the entrance to their Green Lord master's burial vault and constructed afterlife. They'll challenge anyone who approaches, judging them, demanding an offering, and extracting a vow of peace and respect. Ultimately, this behavior all stems from a simple instinct: to protect its master.