Figurines of Wondrous Power

Figurines of wondrous power (sometimes called astral creatures) are a way for characters to summon animals that they can use as companions or mounts. These items are similar to ushabti, but have different abilities and have a limited time of availability once activated. They are not usable in the same way as other beasts of the astral plane, and they will dissolve back into statuette form once their service is completed.

These figurines of wondrous power are prized relics of the Aereni and Tairnadal, and can often be dangerous to those who attempt to steal them. They usually function as a companion or mount for their owner, but they can be used by others. This is particularly true for a spectral figurine, which can be summoned on the fly.

The onyx dog is a very rare figurine of wondrous power that can be obtained by completing the quests in “Cloak and Dagger” (1×68) and “The Deceiver’s Stand” (1×83). When activated, this item transforms into an onyx mastiff that can be used as a companion for up to six hours. The mastiff has an Intelligence of 8, can speak Common, and can see invisible creatures and objects within 60 feet.

It also has a bite attack, and can make Perception and Survival checks. This creature is also capable of transporting its owner to the astral plane or the Ethereal Plane. A caster must call out the command word before using this ability. The onyx dog is very loyal to its owner and obeys his commands, but it is not a fighter.

Unlike other figurines of wondrous power, the onyx dog is not destroyed or damaged in animal form, and reverts to its statuette form if slain. In addition to its other abilities, it can make a Perception check to see if a monster has its hide, revealing whether the beast is concealed or not.

Other figurines of wondrous power include the bronze griffon, ebony fly, golden lions, ivory goats, marble elephants, obsidian steed, and serpentine owl. Other figurines are available in the Tyrants of the Moonsea expansion, including the black spider, which can be used as a companion for one hour once every rest.

The silver raven is a more rare figurine of wondrous power, and can be used to cast Animal Messenger at will during the twelve hours it is in raven form. It can’t be used again until two days have passed. A drow dragon can also use this device to teleport in and out of the astral planes, but must make a Wisdom check to do so. If the dragon fails, it reverts to the silver figure and can’t be used again until the next day. This is similar to a drow dragon’s use of the Warforged artifacts, though it is much more powerful. In the hands of a drow, this can be quite deadly. In the hands of a human, however, this can be a useful tool.