Zahhak
About
Zahhak is a tyrant corrupted until serpents grow from his shoulders and demand human brains. He remains a ruler, strategist, and speaker beneath the monstrous burden, which makes his cruelty institutional rather than feral. The serpents are fed through prisons, tribute, and law. Ending their hunger requires breaking the prisons, tribute, and laws that supply them; striking the throne alone leaves that machinery intact.
Stats
Save Rolls
Traits
Special Attack
Shoulder Serpents: Zahhak makes two 3d10+5 bites against different targets. A creature reduced below half HP by a bite becomes held by one serpent, takes 2d8 damage at the start of Zahhak's turn, and restores the same HP to Zahhak.
Special Defense
Starve the Tyranny: freeing every captive intended as food prevents the serpents from recovering HP and removes 2 DR. At 0 HP Zahhak can be bound beneath a mountain instead of killed.