D&D 3E/3.5 Negative Levels and Hit Dice in 3.5?

[Sarrat]

Do negative levels affect a monster's effective hit dice, for the purposes of, say, sleep? The spell description is vague, and it does not explicitly say. I figure somebody here will know the answer, or at least have an opinion. ^_^

Specific questions:

1. Does the phrase "for determining the power, duration, DC, and other details of spells or special abilities" apply to spells cast *on* the creature with negative levels, or just to spells cast *by* said creature?

2. If it applies to spells cast *on* the affected creature, can you read "Hit Dice" for "Levels" for creatures with no character levels?

 

[Ranes]

I'd say they do.

1. Both, I think.

2. Yes. The energy drain definition in the MM says, "An affected opponent... loses one level or Hit Die..."

Well, that's what it looks like, to me.

Welcome to the boards.

 

[Sarrat]

Is that energy drain definition in the 3.5 MM? I don't have it, but the 3.5 SRD doesn't have the verbiage about HD. (Although the SRD is clearer about #1.)

And thanks! ^_^

 

[Ranes]

Yes, the definition from which I quoted is in the 3.5 MM glossary.

And you're welcome. But don't be suprised if others have more to say. I am but a third level rules enthusiast.