Pseudo-dragon

Neutral (good) Small Monster (dragon, reptile) (1.5 ft. long)

Surprise normal (others 80% if camouflaged); Senses infravision 60 ft., see invisible

Armor Class 2

Hit Points 9 (HD 2; 2d8)

Move 6”; fly 24" (Class B)

Poison 14, Petrify 15, Wand 16, Breath 17, Spell 17

Special Defenses chameleon power

Magic Resistance 25%

To Hit AC 0: 16

Melee bite (1d3) or tail stinger (1d3 plus poison; THAC0 12)

Special Attacks poison; Hits As normal

Base Morale 55%

Intelligence average (8-10)

Languages none (understands common), telepathy (limited, up to 24")

Level III

Chameleon Power. Pseudo-dragons have a chameleon-like power, so that they can blend with any typical background and become 80% undetectable to creatures not able to see invisible objects. Pseudo-dragons must remain motionless to be undetectable due to camouflage.

Familiar Powers. When touching it's master, the familiar will transmit it's magic resistance to the magic-user. A pseudo-dragon can also transmit what it sees and hears to its master up to a distance of 24". This is a major action that requires 10 segments by both the dragon and the master to establish the connection. During this time the magic-user is blind to his or her local surroundings. The connection may be dropped by either as a minor action requiring 1 segment. This connection requires concentration on the part of the magic-user (may walk slowly, any jostling, saving throw, or damage will disrupt). While the caster can target creatures or objects with spells or items by viewing them through the dragon's eyes, any to-hit rolls suffer a -4 to-hit (any range consideration are to the caster/wielder of course). A pseudo-dragon grants no other abilities to it's master and no penalties are given if the familiar dies.

Poison. The pseudo-dragon can deliver a vicious bite with its small, dragon-like jaws, but its major weapon is its sting-equipped tail. This appendage is long and very flexible. The creature can move it with flashing speed, and strikes at +4 to its "to hit" dice. Any creature struck must save vs. Poison or go into a state of catalepsy which lasts for 1d6 days. During this time, the victim appears dead and there is a 25% chance the creature will actually die.

Pseudo-dragons are found in any clime, save the coldest or hottest, when they are found at all. These creatures are rare indeed and highly sought after. They lair in great hollow trees or small caves. Pseudo-dragons appear exactly as miniature red dragons. However, their coloration is a basic red brown, and can be changed as noted. When flying, they may only strike with their tails.

A pseudo-dragon may choose to become a companion of a humanoid even without the use of a find familiar spell. If this occurs, the companion of the dragon receives all of the familiar powers as noted above.

ENCOUNTERS

Level III.

Frequency. Very Rare; In Lair 5%

Number Appearing. 1

Environment. Temperate/sub-tropical, uninhabited/wilderness areas (scrub, forest)

Treasure Type. Q (x 10)

Experience. XP 197 (or 179+2 per h.p.)