Spell Index

Summon Cerberus Horse

"These horses built Cerberus as much as we did" - Christophe Leblanc

Conjuration
Action: Standard
Components: V,S,M
Duration: See text
Spell Lists: Arcane
Levels: 3,5,7,9
Range: close

Summon Cerberus Horse allows the caster to summon a grown and combat-trained horse from Cerberus. The horse can be directed to be the combat mount of some creature other than the caster. When this choice is made, it cannot be undone for the whole duration of the spell, as the horse of Cerberus is extremely loyal. If not used for combat but for transportation of goods and people, Cerberus horses can be cooperative. If the caster of this spell becomes fond of a horse he summons, he may remember the horse and give it a name to resummon it the next time. The caster may remember 1 horse per intelligence point in this way. A named horse can communicate more effectively with its rider. A DM may add to the bravery bonus when the relationship between the horse and the rider becomes more solid.

The Cerberus Horse holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Cerberus, being even closer to humans than dogs. This magnificent beast, known for its loyalty, power, hard work, and bravery in the face of giants, is respected by all. Some say that the people of Cerberus love their horses so much, and have depended on them so deeply in their most difficult times, that their mana has intertwined with them, creating truly enchanted creatures.

The Cerberus Horse is no ordinary animal; it is an enchanted beast. It typically grows larger and stronger with age and has a maximum lifespan of around 100 years. It is rare for a Cerberus Horse to survive long after the death of its rider, as its loyal heart becomes riddled with sadness.

An exception to this occurs when the Cerberus Horse is left in the wild with its herd in the great plains between the cities of Cerberus and Vlad. In this state, the horse's age limit becomes indeterminate. It's also worth noting that the Cerberus Horse is never overpopulated, as it regulates its birth rate according to the size of its herd.

Horse Qualities:

• Speed
• Extraordinary leaping ability
• Call to Bravery: The horse's cry has a supernatural effect on its rider, strengthening their muscles and determination.
• Sturdiness: Some horses can withstand a giant's blow without flinching.
• Keen Senses: At higher levels (5+), a horse can, without a perception check, perceive the invisible and even ride through total darkness, albeit at half speed.
• Intelligence: The horse understands the language of the people of Cerberus but does not respond to its rider. It is always of Lawful Good alignment and will not cooperate with a rider it dislikes.

The Cerberus Horse possesses incredible survival instincts. It is often the architect of victories against the Giants of Cerberus, their eternal enemies. These giants can appear at any moment, threatening everything. The horses are capable of leaping to avoid the giants' powerful attacks and can lead their riders to the right spots to deliver critical blows to the giants.

Basic Mechanics:

• Mounting a Horse: Swift Action (1 tick)
• Dismounting a Horse: Swift Action (1 tick)
• Leaping off a Moving Horse to Attack: Swift Action (1 tick). Requires a minimum DEX of +3.
• Mounted Charge + Retreat: Use the horse's speed for movement. A jump can be incorporated into this movement at any time. The jump height depends on the Cerberus Horse's level. Upon reaching the target, the rider makes a single attack with charge bonuses and continues their movement.
• Mounted Charge + Attacks: When the rider opts for this, their first attack is devastatingly effective. Subsequent attacks use their normal bonuses (remember the bonuses from Bravery). This option is best for maximizing damage.

Basic Abilities:

• Horse's Charge: When a rider charges with their Cerberus Horse, use the horse's movement. Upon impact, the rider gains a bonus to their attack roll and a significant damage bonus.
• Bravery: The horse inspires its rider to be better. The rider's HP, attack rolls, and damage rolls are enhanced.
• Shield: Once per turn, the Cerberus Horse can quickly pivot to take one or more attacks meant for its rider. This ability does not work against all attacks.

Spell Scaling