Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Larvae

Larvae are minor demons created from the souls of evil humanoids who have been sentenced to the Nether Realms in payment for their sins. They exist in countless numbers on the lower planes and are preyed upon and tormented by the rest of demonkind.

Larvae are repulsive to behold, having soft, worm-like bodies and humanoid features. Their faces are said to be identical to their earthly countenances, though they always appear contorted as if screaming in pain or fear. They have yellowish skin, usually mottled with splotches of red or brown. Like maggots, their bodies are translucent, and the internal organs are partially visible beneath the skin. The very sight of these creatures is often enough to turn the stomach of any human or humanoid being.

Of all the minor demons, larvae are the least powerful. They are practically mindless and will attack anything that moves, except more powerful demons, whom they fear. The bite of a larvae is dangerous primarily because these creatures are carriers of a variety of loathsome diseases.

Larvae are always encountered in hordes that range in number from ten to two hundred or more. They are scavengers, subsisting upon the bodies of slain demons or other creatures who have found their way into the Nether Realms. Although they are slow-moving, larvae will sometimes pursue living creatures who trespass into their realms.

Attributes:

Weight: 10-20 lbs.

STR: 1

INT: 4

SPD: 6

WILL: 4

DEX: 6

CHA: 1

CON: 10

PER: 10

Level: 1-2

Alignment: Chaotic Evil

Damage:

Bite: 1-4

Claws: 1-4 (+ STR) each or as per weapon employed

Special Attributes: None

Armor: As leather armor

Hit Points: 30-40

Comments:

The common variety of Lesser Demons are noted for their stupidity and brutishness. Larvae are almost exclusively found in groups on their home plane, where they are a source of food for other demons. Their nauseating appearance requires a save vs WILL, or the victim is incapacitated with nausea for 1-4 minutes. Their bite causes disease, requiring a save vs CON to avoid contracting a plague-like disease fatal within 24 hours if untreated ​​.