Parasitic Serpentine
medium beast (aberration), chaotic evil
Defense
Proficiencies & Senses
Characteristics
Traits
Constrict
When it successfully hits a target with its bite attack, it can immediately attempt to constrict the target on its following turn.
Parasitic Infestation
Once per day, the Parasite can lay eggs in a creature it has dealt damage to; if the host fails a DC 15 Constitution saving throw, they will take 3d6 poison damage at the start of each of their turns until it is cured.
Ambush Predator
Has advantage on attack rolls against surprised targets.
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) piercing damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or take 10 (3d6) poison damage.
Constrict
The target is grappled (escape DC 13). Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained, and the Serpentine can't constrict another target.
Combat Behavior
Tactics
• Ambush and surprise attacks from foliage.
• Target weakened creatures and use parasitic abilities to incapacitate foes.
• Attack in pairs if cornered to overwhelm enemies.
Combat Style
Primarily focused on hit-and-run tactics, avoid direct confrontation unless necessary.
Monster Description
The Parasitic Serpentine is a nightmarish blend of snake and parasite, feared by all who encounter it in the wild. Measuring 10 feet in length, this creature's skin has a slick, iridescent sheen, often reflecting a hue of green that camouflages it among foliage and murky waters. Its sinuous body is accentuated by elongated fangs, capable of piercing through tough skin and injecting potent venom that not only incapacitates but begins a gruesome infestation within the host. The serpent's adaptations for survival are terrifying; its unique ability to lay eggs inside the body of its prey ensures continued propagation of its kind, making it more a plague than a mere beast.Monster behavior
The Parasitic Serpentine is aggressive and highly territorial. It employs ambush tactics, often lying motionless among the underbrush, striking with deadly speed when unsuspecting prey passes by. Its bite is not just a direct attack but a means to initiate a parasitic bond, turning its victims into unwitting incubators. When faced with a threat, it will first try to engage by surprising its opponent; if outmatched, it cleverly retreats into small crevices or water, waiting for the perfect moment to strike again. Its instinct to survive is matched only by its urge to propagate, leading it to prioritize the seeding of its eggs above all else, even at the cost of its own safety.Ecology
Within the ecosystem, the Parasitic Serpentine plays a dual role as predator and pest. It keeps rodent and other small populations in check while its parasitic influence can disrupt the local wildlife, leading to chaos among species. Animals that fall victim to its infestation can spread the parasites further, leading to a greater imbalance within the ecosystem they inhabit. This makes the Serpentine something of an ecological curse but also a necessary evil in maintaining the natural order, showcasing nature's cruel method of balance.History
Deep in the uncharted jungles, legends speak of the first Parasitic Serpentine spawned from an unholy union of cursed magic and the vile desires of ancient sorcerers. Their quest for eternal life resulted in this abomination being birthed into their world, intended as a guardian, but it turned against its makers, consuming them instead. Over time, the species would emerge unseen, spreading through regions of darkness and despair. Encounters with these horrifying creatures are sporadic yet notorious, as their penchant for hiding and stealth makes sightings rare; however, tales of their gruesome nature ensure that they are feared in folk tales and adventure novels alike.Ready to Unleash Your Dungeon Master Potential?
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