Hydrae

The hydra is a sub-species of dragons. The only thing that sets them apart is that hydrae have three heads instead of one. Otherwise, they are much the same as their dragon cousins. Amusingly, their three heads do not always have the same opinion, which experienced adventurers can use to their advantage.

First encountered in Ultima IV, Hydrae are usually found roaming through dungeons, but are sometimes seen on the surface as well.

In Ultima VII only one hydra is found, and it is shown to be fairly intelligent and capable of speech (See: Notable examples).

Lore




Notable examples

 * The Avatar meets a hydra known as the Hydra Brothers in Ultima VII on the island Ambrosia. A hilarious conversation follows with all three heads, wherein the Brothers do their best to look superior, but the Avatar bests them easily.

Trivia

 * Hydrae cannot fly in Ultima IV; this was inexplicably changed according to the creature's lore text in Ultima VII. However, neither dragons nor hydra possess wings or the ability to fly in Ultima VII despite the manual's insistence they both can.
 * "Hydra" is also the name of a plant encountered in the swamps in Ultima VI.
 * The hydra was to be included in the cancelled Ultima X. Link: Ultima X Hydra