Shapeshifting "Illlusion"

[Pixel Popper]

So, I had an idea for an encounter into to give the "illusion" of shapeshifting: 9th level Wizard with a familiar and a Familiar Tattoo:

Wizard is hiding.

Familiar goes to a position observed by the party.

Wizard Dim. Doors to a spot adjacent to the familiar, obscurring it from view.

Familiar goes into the Familiar Tattoo.

Ta da!

Deception and Stealth rolls as needed.

So, what kind of magicky effects does appearing with Dimension Door have, if any, that might give the "illusion" away?

[breithauptclan]

There are spell manifestations that can be identified. Some options to help with it:

Conceal Spell would be the basis for using deception to pretend that the spell manifestations were actually part of the shapeshifting.

Bizarre Magic will also help if people notice that a spell is happening. They may not be able to tell whether the spell that they saw was Dimension Door or some shapeshifting spell that they don't know about. There are other similar feats or class abilities that would have the same effect. Elaborate Flourish for example.

[Pixel Popper]

Thanks!

I was aware there are manifestations for the casting and, of course, effects like the explosion of a Fireball. I'm just not entirely sure what the obvious manifestation(s), other than suddenly appearing in the target location, might be that would betray the sudden appearance as the effect Dimension Door.

[breithauptclan]

Identify Magic would be what I would base it on. It lists 'ongoing effect' - which I guess a short-duration spell like Dimension Door isn't really an ongoing effect. But the idea is the same. You see the effect of the spell rather than the casting of the spell.

So I wouldn't let the characters identify magic on Dimension door after it was finished if they didn't actually see it happen. But if they were watching for the brief time that the effect was going on, then it would qualify.

So that is where a Create a Diversion check would come in...

[Pixel Popper]

Good info.

Since Identify Magic takes 10 minutes (1 minute with a feat), I think engaging the party in conversation immediately after the "illusion" should keep 'em guessing long enough to play up the shapeshifting deception.

Thanks!

[breithauptclan]

Sounds good. Be aware that Quick Identification changes the time it takes to do Identify Magic more at higher skill proficiency. It only takes 3 actions at master proficiency and 1 action at legendary.