A Touch of Character #4
Yuan-Ti Purebloods often attempt to infiltrate human societies in order to find victims for their sacrifices. Some just like killing people. Today's NPC enjoys both hobbies.
Name: Ssylarth
Occupation: Poisoner/Villain
Bio: Ssylarth works in the shadows, blending in to human cities with stealth and disguise. He's a cold-blooded killer (literally) who loves nothing more than to see his victims suffer. His weapon of choice is poison, delivered by a laced arrow or with a slash or scratch of his long, curved scimitar, Fang. Working under the direction of a Malison commander, Ssylarth has two jobs: inflict pain and death in the name of Dendar, the Night Serpent, and stun and capture victims to be sacrificed to Merrshaulk, Master of the Pit (see MM p. 310).
He has his own agenda as well, however: replace his rival, Harrvith, as the commander's favourite. Ssylarth desires power and status, and wants to be known as the greatest pureblood assassin that ever lived. He will go to any ends to gain favour, which makes him somewhat reckless. His carelessness resulted in two unfortunate circumstances.
He is now sought by the town guards, who have become aware of his actions, thanks to a less-than-discreet killing spree that left a trail of poisoned corpses. He also had a mishap when experimenting with new poisons that left him vulnerable to carrion crawler mucus, a fact he does not want discovered. For a yuan-ti to be vulnerable to any kind of poison is an embarrassment.
Ssylarth looks human enough, but like all purebloods, he has some distinctive features that give away his serpentine heritage. His eyes are noticeably reptilian- yellowish-green with slit pupils - and his right arm, shoulder, and upper chest are covered in sickly-green scales. He wears thick, long-sleeved clothing under his dark leather armor at all times, and keeps his eyes hidden as much as possible. He's on the market for a hat of disguise that will help him hide his yuan-ti features more easily.
Ssylarth could make an excellent introductory villain for a campaign. Perhaps the PCs have been called upon by the city officials to investigate the murders, and they begin tracking him down. Does the story end if he is defeated, or do the players then uncover the rest of the yuan-ti network and work their way up to the Malison commander, or to an Abomination running the show?
