This one is truly terrifying. I was asked to develop an undead assassin for a module in the works from Kip and Stevo from Unleash the Dragon called Nightfall. So, I wanted something that was different but really scary. Almost like a D&D Terminator. Not indestructible by any means, but just strong enough that you wouldn’t want to mess with him. And, if you saw him coming, its time to get out of the way. If he’s coming after you, you’d better figure out who you pissed off and fast! Let me know if you use one and what you thought.
| Frequency: Rare No. Appearing: 1 Armor Class: 2 Move: 30’, Hit Dice: 12d8 (54 hp) % In Lair: 0% Treasure Type: Weapons Only Attacks: 2 Damage: Dagger 1d4 +2, Sword 2d6+2 Special Attacks: Shadowstep Special Defense: Shadowstep Magic Resistance: See Below Intelligence: Highly Intelligent Alignment: Nil Size: M (6’) Psionic Ability: Nil Level / X.P. Value: XII / 1300 + 16 per HP |  |
The Shadow Bones skeleton is tall and slender, with bones that appear to be etched with ancient runes. Its hooded cloak is made of dark, non-reflective fabric, and its black leather armor has been sewn together from basilisk hides, as has its boots. Its red glowing eyes pierce through the shadows, and its bony fingers are able to hold tightly to its weapons.
The pair of magic +2 daggers it carries have a serrated edges, ideal for quick and silent kills. The +2 scimitar is large and heavy, used for more brutal attacks. The blades are all made of a strange black metal and coated with a poison that can quickly paralyze even the strongest of foes unless they make their saving throw. This is intentional so that a last message could be left via scroll or spell by whomever hired (or created) the Shadow Bones for the intended victim. Once the victim is paralyzed, the Shadow Bones will then display the scroll or activate the spell.
Once a Shadow Bones has agreed to a price, it will not stop coming after the target until said target or the Shadow Bones is dead. If the Shadow Bones is on a mission, the employer will receive a telepathic vision of the Shadow Bones being destroyed and his original payment will reappear on the ground in front of him.
This undead assassin is a new breed of skeleton, created through dark magic and imbued with a deadly purpose. The Shadow Bones name is whispered in fear among his targets. His skills as an assassin are enhanced by his undead nature, allowing him to move silently and quickly without fatigue. His powers allow him to blend into the shadows and become nearly invisible. He is a lethal adversary, striking from the darkness with swift and deadly precision.
Special Abilities:
- Undead Fortitude: The Shadow Bones has resistance to necrotic damage and cannot be poisoned or suffer from exhaustion.
- Poisoned Weapons: The Shadow Bones’ weaponry is coated with a potent poison that can paralyze foes.
- Shadow Step: The Shadow Bones can teleport from one shadow to another, allowing him to swiftly move around the battlefield unnoticed once per round.
- Assassinate: The Shadow Bones can deal extra damage to his targets if he surprises them at the beginning of combat.
Hiring a Shadow Bones is no easy task. You have two choices:
- Find either a high-level wizard or even a Lich that might be willing to create one for you. Then it will be yours to command forever. The problem with this option is the cost.
- There are rumors of mausoleums where Shadow Bones can be found for hire. Certain Thieves’ Guilds and very rich merchants know the locations of them. This could cost you some gold for the location, but it’s cheaper than making your own.
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