Lost Company Press
The cockatrice is a terrifying combination of lizard, bird, and dragon. With the body of a serpent, wings of a bat, and a rooster's head, it stirs primal fear in those who gaze upon it. A single glance from its piercing eyes is said to be enough to petrify the unlucky observer, turning flesh to stone with supernatural ease.
Motive: Protect territory and reproduce
Environment: Forests, caves, and abandoned ruins (Forest)
Health: 12
Damage: 4 points
Armor: 2
Movement: Short when walking, Long when flying
Modifications: Perception as level 5; Stealth as level 5 due to camouflaging scales
Combat: A cockatrice attacks from above, utilizing a swift diving peck with its stone-hard beak. If the attack hits, the victim must make an immediate Speed defense roll. On a failure, they feel the onset of petrification, which hinders all their movements by two steps. Each subsequent hit from the cockatrice requires another Speed defense roll, with a failed roll worsening the petrification by another step. Full petrification occurs if movements are hindered by four steps. Some cockatrices can produce a cone-shaped petrifying breath (Short range) instead of the gaze, requiring every creature in the area to make a Speed defense roll or be hindered as with a successful peck.
Interactions: Generally reclusive, cockatrices may avoid combat if it can protect its nest or territory by other means. It may use illusory cries for help to lure in prey, revealing its aggressive nature only when the victim is close.
Uses: A cockatrice might be guarding a powerful artifact in an ancient ruin, or a panicked town might hire adventurers to deal with a cockatrice that has taken residence nearby, petrifying livestock and unwary travelers.
Loot: Cockatrice feathers are highly valued by alchemists, while its petrifying glands are a rare component sought out by spellcasters.
GM Intrusion: As a character attacks, the cockatrice's eyes flash, causing their weapon to petrify in their hands'you'll need a strong grip or a sudden decision to let it go.