Lesser Shapechanger. As an action, the bastard can change their appearance to that of another humanoid creature. They may not duplicate the appearance of a creature they have not seen previously, though that could be many depending on the location they are found in. The appearance they take will always have a difference to the original, whether subtle or obvious, such as an oversized body part or a difference in hair color.
Mimicry. When disguised as another creature, the bastard may be able to adopt their subject's mannerism if watching for long enough (20+ minutes), giving them an advantage in Deception rolls and saving rolls.
Ambusher. The bastard has advantage on attack rolls against any creature it has surprised.
Surprise Attack. If the bastard surprises a creature and hits it with an attack during the first round of combat, the target takes an extra 10 (3d6) damage from the attack.
Multiattack. The doppelganger makes two melee attacks.
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.
Description
Bastards are more primitive versions of Doppelgangers, unable to shapeshift with total accuracy like their descendants. Their primitive nature impairs their abilities, meaning their shapeshifting is inaccurate, and there is always a flaw to be spotted. However, they are able to adopt the subtle mannerisms of those they are becoming, given they've been able to watch.
Bastards are gendered creatures and it is difficult for them to change into a creature who's gender is not their own. Their primitive minds also have not developed the ability to speak in any language.
These creatures tend to infiltrate caravans and feast when night falls. Be wary. If one of your party members becomes eerily silent and something seems off about their appearance, they may have been replaced.
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