Long, ribbon -like bodies with faintly pulsing organs visible through translucent skin, Crimson Eels move with a sinuous and mesmerising motion. They seem to glow in the water as radiant patterns ripple along their flanks, pulsating to the rhythms of the heartbeats of nearby pray.

They are found only in the Sanguine Stream, a cursed river that runs red with ancient magic or sacrificial blood. The water itself is said to be mildly corrosive to the uninitiated.

Crimson Eels are typically three to four feet long, while juveniles are smaller and often mistaken for harmless river eels.

Pathfinder stats

Crimson Eel. Level 5 creature

Uncommon | N | Medium | Aquatic | Aberration (optional)
Perception +13; Darkvision, Bloodsense (see below)
Languages –
Skills Stealth +12, Athletics +10
Str +3, Dex +4, Con +2, Int -2, Wis +2, Cha +0
AC 21 | HP 75 | Fort +12 | Ref +14 | Will +9
Speed Swim 50 ft

🧬 Special Abilities

Hypnotic Glow ✨ (Aura, Mental, Visual)
Creatures within 30 feet that can see the Crimson Eel must succeed at a DC 20 Will save or become fascinated for 1 round. On a critical failure, they are compelled to approach the eel on their next turn. Creatures that succeed are temporarily immune for 24 hours.

Acidic Constriction 🧪
When the eel successfully grapples a creature, it secretes corrosive mucus. The grappled target takes 2d6 acid damage at the start of each of its turns and must succeed at a DC 21 Fortitude save or take a –1 status penalty to AC and Reflex saves for 1 minute.

Bloodsense 🩸
The Crimson Eel can detect any creature with blood within 300 feet, even through water, walls, or magical concealment. This functions like scent, but for blood.

Reactive Surge ⚡ (1 action)
Triggered when a creature enters the water within 30 feet. The eel can immediately swim up to its speed toward the creature and attempt a grapple.

Pathfinder is a new system to me and I am still finding my way around. This is the first creature I have tried to create for my solo pathfinder game so I welcome any constructive suggestions as to how it can be improved. I am always happy to hear your thoughts.