Homebrew Anchored Once Species Details

Physical Description: Anchored Once are humanoid beings made entirely of shadow, with a small diamond at their center. They stand roughly the same height as humans, and their outlines waver and shift constantly, making it difficult to focus on them for long periods of time. The diamond at their center glows softly, emitting a dim light that illuminates their immediate surroundings.

Ability Score Increase: Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Wisdom score increases by 1.

Shadow Melding: As an action, you can merge into a nearby shadow, disappearing from view. You must be in dim light or darkness to use this ability. While merged, you can move through other shadows as though they were solid objects, but you cannot interact with the physical world. You can remain merged with a shadow for up to 1 minute, or until you choose to end the effect as a bonus action. Once you use this ability, you cannot use it again until you complete a short or long rest.

Diamond Light: The diamond at your center emits a dim light in a 5-foot radius. You can adjust the brightness of this light as a bonus action, up to a maximum range of 20 feet. While the light is active, you have advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.

Shadow Resistance: You have resistance to necrotic damage, and you are immune to being frightened.

Darkvision: You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can't discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and Shadowtongue, a language of whispers and hisses that only other Anchored Once and those who have studied the language can understand.

Anchored Once Traits

In the world of Dungeons and Dragons, Anchored Once are a race of enigmatic humanoid creatures made entirely of shadow, with a diamond at their center that emits a soft glow. With their ability to merge into shadows, move through them, and adjust the brightness of their diamond light, they are highly adept at stealth and reconnaissance. Anchored Once are also resistant to necrotic damage, immune to being frightened, and possess darkvision, making them formidable allies or foes in combat. Their unique language, Shadowtongue, adds to their mystery and intrigue, as it is only understood by other Anchored Once and those who have taken the time to study it. Adventurers who encounter an Anchored Once must be prepared for the unexpected, as their abilities and motives may be shrouded in shadow.