Monster: Changer, Wych

Changer, Wych (Witchwolf)

Armour Class:  6
Hit Dice:  3+3****
Move:  180' (60')
Attacks:  1 [1 bite]
Damage:  as weapon or spell [2-7, bite, or spell] + special
No. Appearing: 1-3 (2-8)
Save As:  M4
Morale:  10
Treasure Type:  Q + T (F)
Alignment:  Any
XP Value:  175

The wych -- better known as witchwolves -- like all changers, possess two forms; they may appear to be lean humanoids with mottled, dun-grey hair, long features and strangely-coloured eyes, or a large wolf-like canine with a pelt of varied white, grey and golden, marked with faintly glowing teeth and claws.  Strange and fey even by changer standards -- gathering mundane wolves and other canines to themselves, adorning themselves with small carved idols and brightly coloured braids in hair and fur -- all wych are familiar with magic; some will use it to aid, others to harm.  Whether hostile to other sapients or no, the witchwolves will band together with others when giants raid or the undead rise, though questioning the reason for their enmity generally is a poor life choice.  Many wych prefer their canine shape, but all retain the ability to speak while wearing it.

In combat a wych may change shape swiftly enough to allow one change of form per round regardless of other actions taken.  In humanoid shape witchwolves prefer to use spells or other forms of magic if at all possible; if pressed to attack physically they may use a dagger, but will normally choose to shift forms instead.  Wych cast spells as 3rd-level magic users, and know their spells innately.

Injurious spells cast by a wych in humanoid form, as well as any physical attacks, are treated as causing elemental wind damage (in addition to other elements, as required).  In canine shape they may choose instead to soulshackle a target, binding them in place (though movement is otherwise unimpeded) for 1-4 turns if a save vs. spells is failed.  Against fellow spellcasters of any variety a wych may use a jackal's bite -- if the wych's attack is successful, they steal away an unused spell, randomly chosen, and may use the magic to cast their own spell(s) without losing spell slots.

Witchwolf packs are led by a wych hierarch; this individual -- usually the eldest of the pack --possesses 5+6 Hit Dice and casts spells as a 6th-level magic user.