Mar 302011
 

You recognize the creature in the middle of the group as a Sahuagin, like the rest. Something is different about this one, though. The others grip their tridents tightly, yet this one has none. They charge and scream in rage, and this one holds back biding its time. Then you remember the stories of those lone Sahuagin that remember the old ways, before the dark gods. It raises its hand, and a swarm of eels speed from the darker waters and surround it like a living shield. It swims toward you, wise enough to detect the dangers of an insightful enemy.

The Sahuagin Eel Lord is a Sahuagin, just like any other. The difference here is in discipline and insight. These rare creatures have found more to connect with in deep waters than fear and worship of sharks. They find power in other elements of nature, and through this find a level of control in themselves.

This does not stop them from respecting sharks or paying reverence to Sekolah. Nor does it make them any less destructive or evil. However, they are much more aware of their actions and seek out more creatures to become in tune with. They tend to have skin with tinges of lighter blue, and appear surprisingly calm in combat.

In combat, he either starts with a swarm of eels at his side, or quickly summons them. As creatures become immobilized, eels will break off to keep these enemies in place. The Eel Lord either has them rejoin his side, or calls for more as needed.

Nature/Religion 16: This creature is not the regular brand of blood crazy, demon worshiping Sahuagin. Instead, the Eel Lord has developed a primal connection to the sea. Enemies should beware – its close exposure to eels allows it not only to call the beasts, but to mimic their abilities.

Nature 24: While often accompanied by eels, the Sahuagin Eel Lord shares connections with far more creatures. Be wary of squid or sharks lurking in nearby dark waters. Eel Lords will even swim into these deeper waters as well. They may not be fleeing however. The electricity coursing through their veins enhances their eyesight.

Tactics: Unlike most controllers, the Sahuagin Eel Lord does not avoid melee. In fact, he thrives in it. At the beginning of combat he’ll stay toward the outside of the group so he can properly observe. Once a high damage dealer, or a target that thrives on being mobile is located, he switches targets. If this puts him in the thick of the fight, all the better. The Eel Lord is more effective, the more targets he can effect by his aura. He won’t hesitate to take opportunity attacks from movement, if it means more immobilized enemies are subject to his Eel Frenzy attack.

Encounters: The Eel Lord is most often found with other Sahuagin. The presence of an Eel Lord also increases the likelyhood of allied underwater predators (unfortunately, there aren’t much, apart from Sharks in the Compendium, but we shall rectify that later). Due to their spiritual connection, the presence of Eel Lords might also signal allied spirits. They pair well with Phantoms and (when avenging on land) Poltergeists.

Of all the Sahuagins, the Eel Lord is the most likely to break away from their tribal structure, and explore the world, or join up with mercenaries. They see things that other Sahuagin don’t, and may make this choice willingly or be chased out by stubborn leaders who do not wish to understand them.

Notes to DMs: Feel free to use these creatures on land, effectively. Just replace the living eels with spirit eels. Add Necrotic damage to taste.

This creature originally appeared on Free Orcs, but has been updated and expanded upon for StufferShack.com

Brian Liberge

Brian Liberge is a father of one, living in Boston, MA. Introduced to AD&D at an early age, he’s continued to update with the editions, and new games. He loves home-brewed ideas, is honest to a fault, and thinks that ideas and mechanics should absolutely be shared between systems. With a B.S. Degree in Theatre Arts, a job in Information Technology, and a love of strategy gaming, he tries to bring the best of each into his new creations for StufferShack. Check out his latest book the Midgard Bestiary for 4e, available now. Profile Page / Article Portfolio

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