AD&D - Hound of Ill Omen

Interesting Creature or another DM revenge on character creature?

The Hound of Ill Omen is a rare, shadowy wolf-hound that appears as a harbinger of death to a single adventurer. Its presence is fleeting, accompanied by a powerful howl that increases the damage of subsequent wounds. It can only be seen by one individual and cannot be harmed. The creature is believed to appear when a character has deeply offended their deity, emphasizing the consequences of straying from one’s moral alignment.

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Highlights -🐺

1. Rare Appearance: The Hound of Ill Omen is very rare.

2. Harbinger of Death: Its presence signals impending doom.

3. Shadowy Form: It appears as a dark wolf-hound, 5’ tall.

4. Powerful Howl: The howl causes quadruple damage on future wounds.

5. Temporary Visibility: Only one party member can see it at a time.

6. No Healing: Healing spells won’t work until a set number of wounds are taken.

7. Divine Offense: The hound appears when a character offends their deity.

Key Insights -🔍

1. Symbolism of Death: The Hound represents the idea that certain actions, especially those against moral or divine expectations, can lead to dire consequences. Its appearance serves as a reminder of the weight of one’s choices.

2. Transient Nature: The hound’s fleeting visibility suggests that some warnings or omens in life may come and go, highlighting the importance of being aware and responsive to signs.

3. Psychological Impact: The booming howl and its effects create psychological dread, affecting not just physical health but mental fortitude, showcasing how fear can influence a character’s journey.

4. Challenge of Healing: By preventing healing until a certain threshold of damage is reached, the hound poses a significant challenge, forcing players to strategize under pressure and consider their actions carefully.

5. Divine Judgment: The creature’s appearance is linked to the character’s relationship with their deity, indicating that morality and alignment play a crucial role in the game’s narrative and character development.

6. Unique Encounter: Being a single entity that cannot be harmed adds an element of mystery and intrigue, making encounters with the hound memorable and impactful.

7. Moral Alignment: The concept of alignment is central to the game, and the hound illustrates the consequences of straying from one’s path, reinforcing the theme of accountability in the adventurers’ actions.