Basilisk

A basilisk is a fearsome creature that strikes terror into the hearts of those who encounter it. It is a reptilian monster with a serpentine body, similar in appearance to a large lizard or snake. The basilisk’s most notorious feature is its gaze, which is said to petrify those who meet its eyes.

The basilisk’s body is covered in rough, scaly skin, typically in shades of earthy brown or gray, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings. It possesses a long tail and four sturdy legs, which enable it to move swiftly and with agility. Its head is adorned with a crown of sharp spines or crests, giving it a distinctive and menacing appearance.

The basilisk’s most feared ability lies in its gaze. When it locks eyes with a creature, a potent petrifying magic takes hold, turning its unfortunate victim into stone. This gaze is a deadly weapon, and those who encounter a basilisk must avert their eyes or risk being turned to stone themselves.

In addition to its gaze, the basilisk possesses razor-sharp teeth and a venomous bite. Its jaws are powerful enough to crush bones and rend flesh, making it a formidable opponent in close combat. Some basilisks can also emit a noxious odor or secrete venomous substances from their body, adding an extra layer of danger to their attacks.

Basilisks are often found lurking in remote and desolate areas, such as deep forests, ancient ruins, or underground caverns. They prefer dark and secluded habitats where they can lie in wait for unsuspecting prey. Legends tell of brave adventurers venturing into their lairs, seeking to slay the creature and claim its valuable treasures, but the risks are immense.

Encountering a basilisk requires caution and careful strategy. Adventurers must rely on their wits, agility, and magical protection to overcome the basilisk’s deadly gaze. It is said that mirrors or reflective surfaces can deflect the basilisk’s gaze, providing a potential advantage in combat. However, even a glimpse of its eyes can spell doom, making the basilisk a truly formidable opponent in any battle.

Special Abilities

Petrifying Gaze

If a creature starts its turn within 30 ft. of the basilisk and the two of them can see each other, the basilisk can force the creature to make a DC 12 Constitution saving throw if the basilisk isn’t incapacitated. On a failed save, the creature magically begins to turn to stone and is restrained. It must repeat the saving throw at the end of its next turn. On a success, the effect ends. On a failure, the creature is petrified until freed by the greater restoration spell or other magic.
A creature that isn’t surprised can avert its eyes to avoid the saving throw at the start of its turn. If it does so, it can’t see the basilisk until the start of its next turn, when it can avert its eyes again. If it looks at the basilisk in the meantime, it must immediately make the save.
If the basilisk sees its reflection within 30 ft. of it in bright light, it mistakes itself for a rival and targets itself with its gaze.

Actions

• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage plus 7 (2d6) poison damage.