Basilisks

These creatures of old have been here far before Ancients or even Kateraks arrived. Basilisks are the epitome of primal hunter that knows no mercy, for if they manage to paralyze their prey, they will oftentimes start devouring it alive. You should never face them alone.

— Huntmistress Eskree, Nocturnal gryphoness

There are many types of basilisks living within the forests, lagoons, rivers, jungles, steppes, and swamps of Midrast Wain. Though all of them are characterized by their colorful frills, affinity to water, forested areas, and ambush-hunting tactics, which makes them particularly dangerous even to the sizable Dragons and Gryphons. However, it is not the strength of their bite, nor claws that pose a great threat but the paralyzing poison in their fangs - its effectiveness so fearsome, that many even started attributing their gaze to be as fearsome as to freeze their prey in place. Although, thankfully, the latter part seems to be mostly untrue for most of the Basilisk kin.

Forest Basilisk

The most common variation of the dreaded Basilisk kin, Forest Basilisks excel in no specific area over their cousins, except for their numbers and fertility. Even in areas where Basilisks are fervently hunted down, it seems as if their numbers are limitless. Forest basilisks dig out their burrows in forests floors and females lay clutches of 3-6 eggs. Forest basilisks are almost never seen alone and tend to be moving in groups of 2 - 8 individuals lead by a single male.

by Velannal

---

Swamp Basilisk

Swamp Basilisks dwell within the dangerous areas of Midrast that houses some of the most venomous, fiercest and deadliest beasts of the world. As such, Swamplisks are both tougher and their venom is stronger, making them far more dangerous foes to encounter even in small numbers. Swamp basilisks fiercely protect their eggs in burrows hidden behind heaps of rotten wood and sticks and tend to be one of the more solitary of species, oftentimes hunting alone or in pairs.

by Velannal

---

Ember Basilisk

Emberlisks are an anomaly, something that should have never been hatched, but for some reason, they appeared shortly after the greatEmber Shattering. The fallen Ember caused mutations within the nearby basilisks which they eventually passed down onto future generations. Emberlisks have been recorded to be one of the sliest, near-sapient species that has grown to considerable size and gained unnaturally vibrant coloration. Some accounts even suggest that they are capable of paralyzing their victim with fear at a distance. Emberlisks are very rare and tend to mingle in with other kinds of basilisks where they assume the position of a leader due to their intellect and supernatural capabilities.

by Velannal

---

Smoke Basilisks

Smokelisks are native to the northwestern parts of The Continent, their natural habitat being amongst the forested hills, tundras, and near hot springs. Many dragons have succumbed to Smokelisks capabilities to emit great heat from their body, even to a point of emitting scalding steam, which is likely the origin for their name. Despite their great body-heat, one can simply avoid contact with them by using long-ranged weapons or surprise them before they begin their self-heating process. Still, one should always exercise caution when near unknown hot springs. Smokelisks form small groups of up to 5 individuals, generally with a single female that is shared and protected by the rest of the males.

by Velannal

---

Foam Basilisks

Foamlisks are believed to be the smallest species of Basilisks in the world, their frames just barely reaching the size of a juvenile Water dragon [worldanvil.com]. Still, Foamlisks make up for it by their scavenging methods. Despite their size, these basilisks use a similar method of hunting like crocodiles, where they paralyze their prey, even if it is larger than them and then they bring it underwater for it to drown. Still, their venom is considered to be the weakest, generally only causing partial paralysis but they make up for it by their unique ability to shoot it over small distances at their intended target. If their victim is bleeding, these venom sprays may prove to be fatal. Foamlisks gather in groups of up to 6 individuals, generally lead by an Alpha female.

by Velannal

Basic Information

Anatomy

Basilisks have a frilled head filled with sharp venomous fangs, six limbs for climbing and swimming, and a long tail. Its body shape resembles a crocodile albeit with more brightly colored frills that serve to dissuade any potential predators and mark them as venomous.

Genetics and Reproduction

Most basilisks lay 2-6 eggs per clutch.

Growth Rate & Stages

Basilisks mature within 1 cycle, but keep on growing in size until they reach their 3rd cycle.

Ecology and Habitats

Depends on the specific species but preferably each like to have access to a forested area and water, as these are their primary hunting grounds.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Basilisks are carnivorous and are capable of devouring smaller animals whole after they paralyze them. If they feel threatened, they will attack even big creatures such as Dragons and Gryphons, although they normally would only prey on smaller species or the young ones of the aforementioned.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Keen sense of smell

Scientific Name

Midrast Basiliyk