Lizard King/Queen

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Lizard King/Queen Introduction

In the heart of the sweltering jungles, where the air hangs thick with humidity and the canopy above filters the sunlight into a kaleidoscope of greens and golds, there lurks a creature of both primal majesty and terrifying power—the Lizard King or Queen. This formidable being stands as the apex of its kind, a ruler among the scaled denizens of the wild. Its scales shimmer with an iridescent sheen, a mesmerizing blend of emerald and obsidian, reflecting the dappled light with an almost hypnotic allure.

The Lizard King or Queen towers over its kin, its muscular frame exuding both grace and raw strength. Its eyes, a piercing yellow, seem to hold the ancient wisdom of the jungle itself, watching with an intelligence that belies its reptilian nature. A crown of jagged horns adorns its head, each one a testament to its dominance and age, while its long, sinuous tail moves with a serpentine grace, ready to strike with lethal precision.

These regal creatures are often found in the deepest, most remote parts of the jungle, where the undergrowth is thick and the paths are known only to the bravest or most foolhardy of adventurers. Here, they reign supreme, commanding the loyalty of lesser lizardfolk and other reptilian creatures. The Lizard King or Queen is a cunning strategist, using the terrain to its advantage, setting traps and ambushes for those who dare to encroach upon its domain.

Legends speak of the Lizard King or Queen as both a fearsome predator and a wise guardian of the jungle's secrets. Some say that these creatures are the chosen of ancient deities, tasked with maintaining the balance of nature and protecting sacred sites hidden within the verdant expanse. Others whisper of dark rituals and blood sacrifices, of a creature that demands tribute from those who seek its favor or wish to pass through its lands unscathed.

As you venture deeper into the jungle, the air grows still, and the sounds of the forest seem to fade into an eerie silence. You feel the weight of unseen eyes upon you, and the oppressive heat seems to press down with an almost tangible force. It is here, in this realm of shadow and mystery, that the Lizard King or Queen awaits, a living embodiment of the jungle's untamed spirit, ready to test the mettle of any who dare to challenge its sovereignty.

Lizard King/Queen Skills & Traits

Skills

• Perception: +4
• Stealth: +5

Senses

• Darkvision: 60 ft.
• Passive Perception: 14

Languages

• Draconic
• Common

Abilities

• Amphibious: The lizard king/queen can breathe air and water.
• Hold Breath: The lizard king/queen can hold its breath for 15 minutes.
• Skewer: Once per turn, when the lizard king/queen makes a melee attack with its trident and hits, the target takes an extra 10 (3d6) piercing damage.

Actions

• Multiattack: The lizard king/queen makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its trident.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage.
• Trident: Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 5) piercing damage, or 10 (1d10 + 5) piercing damage if used with two hands to make a melee attack.
• Frightful Presence: Each creature of the lizard king/queen's choice that is within 30 feet of the lizard king/queen and aware of it must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A frightened target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. If a target's saving throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the target is immune to the lizard king/queen's Frightful Presence for the next 24 hours.

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Battle Tips for the Lizard King/Queen

The Lizard King or Queen is a formidable opponent in any dungeon setting, commanding respect and fear from both allies and enemies. As a Dungeon Master, utilizing this creature effectively can create memorable and challenging encounters for your players. Below are some strategic tips for incorporating the Lizard King/Queen into your battles:

Using the Lizard King/Queen in Battle

• Commanding Presence: The Lizard King/Queen should be portrayed as a tactical leader. Use their ability to inspire and direct other lizardfolk in battle, making them a central figure that players must contend with.
• Environmental Advantage: Place the Lizard King/Queen in environments where they can utilize their natural abilities, such as swamps or dense jungles. This can give them an edge in combat, using the terrain to their advantage.
• Regal Equipment: Equip the Lizard King/Queen with unique weapons or armor that reflect their status. This not only enhances their combat abilities but also provides enticing loot for players.

Coordinated Tactics with Multiple Lizardfolk

• Pack Tactics: Lizardfolk are known for their ability to work together. Use this to your advantage by having them coordinate attacks, flanking players, and using their numbers to overwhelm opponents.
• Defensive Formations: Position the Lizard King/Queen at the center of a defensive formation, with other lizardfolk acting as bodyguards. This can make it difficult for players to reach the leader without first dealing with the minions.
• Ambush Strategies: Utilize the natural stealth and camouflage abilities of lizardfolk to set up ambushes. The Lizard King/Queen can lead surprise attacks, catching players off guard and gaining the upper hand.

Retreat and Regroup Tactics

• Strategic Withdrawal: If the battle turns against them, the Lizard King/Queen should not hesitate to order a retreat. Use their knowledge of the terrain to escape and regroup, planning a counterattack.
• Decoy and Diversion: Employ lizardfolk to create diversions, allowing the Lizard King/Queen to escape. This can involve setting traps or using illusions to mislead players.
• Reinforcements: If the Lizard King/Queen retreats, they can call for reinforcements, returning with a larger force to challenge the players once more.

By leveraging these tactics, the Lizard King/Queen can become a dynamic and challenging foe, providing an engaging experience for your players. Whether leading a charge or orchestrating a cunning retreat, this creature can add depth and excitement to your campaign.