Former Vessel (3.5e Template)
The Former Vessel
3e Summary::These are humanoids that have once been possessed by a powerful entity.
Creating a Former Vessel
This template is acquired after a humanoid or monstrous humanoid has been possessed by a powerful entity of some sort. This could be as simple as a story conceit, or a real effect such as from the spell magic jar.
Size and Type
Same as the base creature.
Weaknesses
Vulnerability to Possession: Despite their best efforts, Former Vessels are vulnerable to being possessed in the future. They suffer a -4 penalty on all saving throws to resist such attempts.
Special Qualities
Slippery Mind (Ex): This ability represents the Former Vessel's ability to wriggle free from magical effects that would otherwise control or compel them. If they are affected by a mind-affecting spell or effect and fail their saving throw, they can attempt it again 1 round later at the same DC. They get only this one extra chance to succeed on their saving throw.
Abilities
While possessed, the Former Vessel gained a modicum of insight from the spirit it once hosted, granting a permanent +2 racial bonus to Intelligence and Charisma. In exchange, their body and mind was wracked as they struggled to reassert their own minds, causing them to suffer a permanent -2 racial penalty to Strength and Wisdom.
Skills
As mentioned, the Former Vessel obtained a level of insight into the minds of that which once possessed them. This has granted them a +2 racial bonus to two Knowledge skills of choice and a +4 racial bonus to Sense Motive. Furthermore, Sense Motive and Knowledge skills are always considered class skills for the Former Vessel.
Feats
The Former Vessel gains the Iron Will feat as a bonus feat, reflecting their continued efforts to protect themselves against future possession.
Alignment
Any, and often times the Former Vessel has a change of world views due to the horrors they bore witness to while possessed.
Challenge Rating
+0.