Double Assassination
Description:
With perfect timing, you can eliminate two enemies in one swift movement. Double Assassination allows you to attack two creatures simultaneously, provided they are close enough to each other and unaware of your presence.
Mechanics:
Prerequisites for Double Assassination:
Both targets must be within 5 feet of each other, and you must be within melee range of at least one of them.
The targets must be unaware of your presence (e.g., distracted, surprised, or otherwise unaware that you are hostile). This generally occurs when you succeed in a Stealth check to remain hidden or ambush them while they are unaware.
You must be wielding a light weapon in each hand (such as daggers or shortswords), or you must have access to unarmed strikes if your character is proficient with them (like a monk).
Death from Above:
If both targets are standing beneath you, such as below a ledge or rooftop, you can leap down and attempt a Double Assassination with the advantage on both attacks. If you fall more than 10 feet before making the attacks, add an additional 1d6 damage to each attack due to the momentum from your fall. This ability can only be used if you remain undetected while preparing for the fall.
Surprise Strike:
If both targets meet the criteria for surprise (e.g., they haven’t noticed you or are in a state where they cannot react), you can make a Double Assassination attempt.
You may attack both targets simultaneously as a single action. Roll separate attack rolls for each target.
First Attack: Make a standard attack roll against the first target. If it hits, apply damage normally. If your attack benefits from Sneak Attack (rogue feature), apply Sneak Attack damage to this target.
Second Attack: Make a second attack roll against the adjacent target. This second attack doesn't benefit from Sneak Attack (unless you have a feature allowing it) but deals normal weapon damage. If you’re a high-level rogue (Level 17+, using Death Strike), you can apply that feature to both targets.
Critical Hit Potential:
If both targets are surprised, you may choose to critically hit both targets if you score a natural 20 on either attack. If both attacks hit, and one results in a natural 20, roll critical damage for that attack.
Master Assassin :
Prerequisite: At least 10th level, proficiency with Stealth, Sneak Attack feature (or equivalent)
Once per long rest, you may attempt a Double Assassination with advantage on both attack rolls. Additionally, you may apply Sneak Attack damage to both attacks if both targets are surprised, even though you can normally only Sneak Attack once per turn.
Quick Getaway:
After performing a successful Double Assassination, you may immediately use your Cunning Action (if you have it) to Disengage or Dash as a bonus action, moving away from the targets before they or other enemies can react. If you do not have access to Cunning Action, you may still move, but you risk provoking opportunity attacks unless both targets are incapacitated.
Silent Kill:
If you successfully reduce both targets to 0 hit points in one turn, and neither had the opportunity to alert others, you can attempt a Stealth check (DC 15) to immediately hide and avoid alerting nearby creatures. On a success, any enemies not already aware of your presence remain unaware of your actions. On a failure, nearby enemies may become suspicious or actively search for you, depending on the situation.
Balance Considerations:
Surprise Requirement: The targets must be unaware of the assassin to use this ability, which helps balance the feature and encourages players to think tactically about when and where to strike.
Limited Usage: The feat can only be used effectively when circumstances are right (stealth, proximity of targets), preventing it from being abused in open combat.
High-Risk, High-Reward: This ability emphasizes stealth and careful planning, rewarding players for strategic thinking and preparation.
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