![[SzassTamPathfinder.webp]] # Szass Tam _Human Lich | [[Red Wizards]] Supreme Regent | [[Red Wizards|Thay]]_ ## Summary The undead Supreme Regent of [[Red Wizards|Thay]] and most powerful of the [[Red Wizards]]. This ancient lich has ruled the necromantic empire for centuries through cunning and magical prowess. His patient, calculating nature and vast undead legions make him one of the most feared rulers in Faerûn. %% ## Now Directing his Soulmonger research from [[Red Wizards|Thay]]. He wants a human node alive on a table and has three people fetching one: [[Valindra Shadowmantle]] and [[Vorthain Crimsonthorn]], set against each other, and [[Lucian Margaster]] in [[Neverwinter]] — whose orders are to kill the [[Cinderborn]] and bring him [[Petra]], paid in the secret of lichdom. He is the only one holding both halves of the picture. [[Lucian Margaster|Lucian]] reports the Cinderborn flying north with Petra; [[Valindra Shadowmantle|Valindra]]'s scouts have gone silent at [[Old Skull Tor]]. He has put them on the same map and sent Valindra north behind Lucian to see that Margaster delivers and helps himself to nothing. He held and broke [[Valindra Shadowmantle|Valindra]] after the [[Dread Ring]] — discipline for a failed asset, not an interrogation. He asked her nothing, so he has never learned that she kept [[Lorragauth]]'s phylactery or that [[Tashara]]'s seven skulls sit in a sanctum of hers he cannot find (S90). ## Appearance Desiccated figure in crimson robes, preserving the illusion of his living form when convenient; his glowing eyes burn with ancient malice. ## Personality Brilliantly manipulative, ruthlessly pragmatic, and infinitely patient — he never rushes, knowing time favors the immortal. Under his rule, [[Red Wizards|Thay]] extends influence through trade enclaves and manipulation rather than crude military force, and his intelligence networks span the continent. ## Quote _"Arrogance serves you not at all in pursuing your objectives. Give into petty, human needs, and you will find your objectives drifting out of reach."_ ## Connections **[[Nyressa Flass]]** — murdered her, the vampiric Zulkir, to claim Zulkir of Necromancy. ## Background **The Rise:** Born in 1104 DR, he murdered the vampiric Zulkir [[Nyressa Flass]] to claim Zulkir of Necromancy, then spent centuries consolidating power. The civil war that raised him to supreme power was carefully orchestrated. ## Stats **Base:** Lich (MM p.202) at 20th level, with legendary actions, lair actions, and legendary items. %%