Warhorse Skeleton

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Warhorse Skeleton Introduction

In the dim light of the moonlit night, a chilling presence emerges from the shadows, a spectral echo of battles long past. The Warhorse Skeleton stands before you, a haunting reminder of the glory and tragedy of ancient wars. Its bones, bleached and brittle, clatter with an eerie rhythm as it moves, each step a ghostly whisper of its former might. The empty eye sockets seem to gaze into the very soul, a hollow stare that speaks of undying loyalty and relentless pursuit.

This undead steed, stripped of flesh and muscle, retains the imposing stature of its living counterpart. Its skeletal frame is adorned with remnants of tattered barding, the once-proud armor now rusted and worn, clinging to the bones like a shroud. The Warhorse Skeleton's mane, a spectral wisp of ethereal energy, flickers like ghostly flames in the night air, casting an otherworldly glow that dances across its bony form.

Warhorse Skeletons are often found haunting the desolate battlefields where they met their end, cursed to wander the lands they once defended. These forsaken places, shrouded in mist and silence, are littered with the remnants of war—broken weapons, shattered shields, and the bones of fallen warriors. Legends speak of these creatures as the restless guardians of forgotten realms, bound by dark magic or unfulfilled oaths to protect the sites of their demise.

In the tales of old, it is said that the Warhorse Skeletons were once the noble steeds of valiant knights, their bond so strong that even death could not sever it. Some believe that these creatures can be laid to rest only by fulfilling their final duty or by the intervention of a powerful cleric. Until then, they roam the night, a spectral reminder of the past, their presence a harbinger of the battles yet to come.

Warhorse Skeleton Skills & Traits

Skills

• None

Senses

• Darkvision: 60 ft.
• Passive Perception: 8

Languages

• None

Abilities

• Damage Vulnerabilities: Bludgeoning
• Damage Immunities: Poison
• Condition Immunities: Exhaustion, Poisoned

Actions

• Hooves: Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage.

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Warhorse Skeleton Battle Tips

The Warhorse Skeleton is an undead creature that can be a formidable opponent in battle. As a Dungeon Master, you can use this creature to create thrilling encounters for your players. Here are some tips on how to effectively utilize Warhorse Skeletons in your campaign:

Using Warhorse Skeletons in Battle

• Charge Attack: The Warhorse Skeleton's charge ability can be used to great effect. Position them at a distance and have them charge at the players, dealing extra damage and potentially knocking them prone. This can disrupt the party's formation and create chaos.
• Flanking Maneuvers: Use the Warhorse Skeleton's speed to your advantage by having them flank the party. This can force players to split their attention and resources, making it harder for them to focus on a single target.
• Undead Resilience: As undead creatures, Warhorse Skeletons are immune to many conditions that affect living creatures, such as poison and charm. Use this to your advantage by having them ignore certain spells or effects that the players might rely on.

Coordinating Multiple Warhorse Skeletons

• Pack Tactics: When using multiple Warhorse Skeletons, have them work together to overwhelm the players. They can coordinate their charges to target the same player, increasing the likelihood of knocking them prone and dealing significant damage.
• Divide and Conquer: Use the Warhorse Skeletons to split the party. Have them target different players, forcing the party to divide their attention and resources. This can make it more difficult for the players to effectively defend themselves.
• Retreat and Regroup: If the battle turns against the Warhorse Skeletons, have them retreat to a defensible position. This can give them time to regroup and launch a counterattack, catching the players off guard.

Fleeing Tactics

• Strategic Withdrawal: If the Warhorse Skeletons are outmatched, have them retreat in an organized manner. They can use their speed to disengage from combat and regroup with other undead forces for a future encounter.
• Covering Fire: If the Warhorse Skeletons are retreating, have other undead creatures provide covering fire or distractions. This can help ensure that the Warhorse Skeletons can escape without being pursued by the players.
• Ambush Preparation: Use the retreat as an opportunity to set up an ambush. The Warhorse Skeletons can lead the players into a trap, where other undead creatures are waiting to attack.

By using these tactics, you can create dynamic and challenging encounters with Warhorse Skeletons that will keep your players on their toes. Whether they are charging into battle or retreating to fight another day, Warhorse Skeletons can be a versatile and exciting addition to your campaign.