Doppelganger Serum

**Item Level:** 12

**Price:** 1,800 gp

**Usage:** Consumable

**Bulk:** L

**Activation:** [Action]

The Doppelganger Serum is a mysterious alchemical concoction, its true origins shrouded in secrecy. When ingested, it grants the user the power to temporarily assume the appearance of another individual, allowing them to masquerade as that person. It is favored by spies, infiltrators, and those who revel in deception.

### Effects:

1. **Mimicry (1 hour):** When the user consumes the Doppelganger Serum as an action, their body undergoes a profound transformation. For one hour, they can change their appearance at will to mimic any humanoid creature of the same size category. This transformation is so convincing that it even mimics voice and mannerisms. The user gains a +4 circumstance bonus to Deception checks related to impersonating the chosen creature.
2. **Chameleon's Guile:** The user becomes exceptionally skilled at blending in with their surroundings. While under the effects of the Doppelganger Serum, they gain a +4 circumstance bonus to Stealth checks and a +2 circumstance bonus to Perception checks to notice hidden traps or secrets.
3. **Disguise Mastery:** The user can make minor alterations to their appearance without breaking their current disguise. For example, they can change the color of their eyes or hair, add or remove scars, or adjust their clothing. This allows for subtle adjustments while maintaining the overall illusion.

### Drawbacks:

1. **Identity Crisis:** Frequent use of the Doppelganger Serum can blur the user's sense of self and identity. They may experience existential crises, difficulty remembering their true appearance, or even struggle to recognize themselves in a mirror.
2. **Shifting Suspicions:** While under the effects of the serum, the user is vulnerable to detection by those with keen senses or magical means of discernment. Observers may notice slight discrepancies in behavior or appearance that could give away the deception.
3. **Limited Duration:** The transformation granted by the Doppelganger Serum lasts for one hour. After this time, the user reverts to their true form, which can be inconvenient or dangerous if they are in a compromising situation.

### Crafting:

Creating Doppelganger Serum requires rare and exotic ingredients, including extracts from elusive shape-shifting creatures. The alchemical process is complex and often shrouded in secrecy, with only a few skilled practitioners possessing the knowledge to craft it.

### Adventure Hooks:

1. The PCs are hired to investigate a series of high-profile thefts and discover that a criminal organization is using Doppelganger Serum to commit their crimes. The party must uncover the identity of the organization's leader and bring them to justice.
2. A noble's life is threatened by an unknown assassin who can impersonate anyone. The party is tasked with finding the assassin and preventing further attacks.
3. A character in the party becomes addicted to the power of the Doppelganger Serum and starts using it recklessly, putting the group at risk. The party must confront their friend's descent into deception and find a way to help them break free from the serum's influence.