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I have seen these threads before and usually get disappointed... when guys list grossly elaborate combination of illusions... illusions upon illusions... pit traps over pit traps, etc., etc... that are WAY too complicated to get off at early levels... so, I am suggesting a few more simple uses... based on the Player being clever... and not conjuring up a relative circus:

1) a fake rock(or brick) wall - this is the most common... because in dungeons... walls are common... and seeing yet another one gives no cause for suspicion. An oldie, but a goodie. Same for Trees in a forest situation, thorn bushes, or spider webs(pre-supposes that there are spiders hidden)...maybe boulders in others. Although, a boulder at the top of a cliff... only requires the caster to point a quarterstaff at it's base and then threaten to Roll it off the cliff upon an enemy.

2) a skunk - humanoids are pre-conditioned to pause/panic at the sight of a skunk... and NOT GO NEAR it... consequently... no saving throw... and a delay for the bad guys. A porcupine might also work.

3) a shark fin - not a whole shark (not needed)... and when it disappears shortly after... what do people think? That's right - that it went UNDERWATER. So, you don't need to concentrate very long to sustain the illusion of danger. this trick also works with...

4) Pseudodragon - it is small... and more importantly... it can cast INVISABILITY... so, when it disappears moments later... the badguys think it is STILL THERE, but invisable... and continue to look for it.

5) stone statues - this works best in front of a dark cave mouth. Better still... use Dancing lights to make two Red Eyes... staring out from within the cave.... NOW, you have an illusionary Basilisk!! Run! Run away!

6) balista - for a pirate campaign on board ship. Fake balistas with real men with flaming torches ready to light them... just might garner the surrender of a whole ship. and again... because you are away from the target... they can't touch it, nor would they have cause - so, no save.

7) fake powder keg - works better if you purchase long, real fuses and light them. Who would ever run up to them... just to CHECK to see if they are real? Humanoids are pre-disposed to run away.

These are all VERY simple... and take advantage of psychology to make them work... not elaborate set-ups. Can YOU think of any?