Tidal Blades
Abyssal hounds live in packs in deep flooded cave systems, relying mostly on their bioluminescent bodies to attract prey in the dark waters. When in large numbers, abyssal hounds create hypnotizing patterns that resemble an underwater aurora.
Abyssal hounds are gifted swimmers but also hunt on ground and in shallow waters during the low tides. When hunting on land, they can spit acid at a great distance just like seahounds, although they are considered more dangerous than their distant cousins.
An abyssal hound's skin is covered in a viscous paralyzing agent, so people who fight them regularly know it's best to coordinate ranged attacks against them whenever possible.
Motive: Hunger
Environment: Flooded caves and beaches
Health: 15
Damage Inflicted: Moderate wound (5 points)
Armor: 1
Movement: Short
Modifications: Resists deception, intimidation, and trickery as level 6
Combat: Abyssal hounds often work together, drawing in prey up to a long distance away by creating a mesmerizing stream of bioluminescence across their skin. Resisting the pull is a level 5 Intellect defense task. Those who fail move a short distance closer to the hounds ach round, until they are compelled to touch one (Intellect defense roll to resist).
Abyssal hounds who bite or brush against a victim cause 5 points of damage and paralyzation for one round due to the paralyzing agent in their mouths and skin. This also affects any creature that touches the hound with bare skin.
Alternatively, they can spit a stream of acid up to a long distance on land, dealing 5 points of damage to a single victim.
Interaction: Abyssal hounds are smart, wily, and unafraid. They are driven by hunger and an inherent need to hunt anything that moves (and even some things that don't—standing still isn't likely to keep you safe around these monsters).
Use: A large group of abyssal hounds makes a harrowing encounter for characters who are exploring caves or surf-fishing. A child was drawn away from the group by the abyssal hound's mesmerizing lights.
Loot: Intact abyssal hound hides are a useful commodity and can fetch 3 to 5 shells from tailors, decorators, and scientists (depending on their condition).
GM Intrusion: The abyssal houndÃs bite or skin is particularly toxic and paralyzes the character for three rounds instead of one.