Intellect devourers were psionic aberrations that took the form of walking brains. They were servants of the mind flayers and were one of the most dreaded threats of the Underdark, with their power to consume intelligence and possess host bodies. They were also known as brain-dogs and rochnon (pronounced: /ˈrɒknɒn/ ROCK-non).
“
Don't cry. We have no intention of eating your brain. In fact, your brain is going on a wonderful journey!
”
— Qorik El-Slurrk, a mind flayer
Description
They looked like little more than disembodied large humanoid brains that could walk on a set of four bestial double-jointed bony legs with feet bearing three stubby talons. Though their size was variable thanks to their psionic compression power, they ranged in size from 6 inches (15 centimeters) long, to about as big as dogs. Despite their appearance, they could move and attack with shocking speed. Their brain matter was protected under a crusty coating or a glistening, clear membrane. They made warbling sounds.
Behavior
The intellect devourer had a kind of split personality, enabling it to perform different actions simultaneously. They were mostly only active when it was dark.