Couatl

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Couatl Introduction

In the heart of the dense, untamed jungles where sunlight filters through the thick canopy in dappled patterns, there exists a creature of such ethereal beauty and mystique that it seems almost a dream. The Couatl, a celestial being of serpentine grace, glides silently through the verdant foliage, its scales shimmering with iridescent hues of emerald, sapphire, and gold. Its wings, vast and feathered, are a tapestry of vibrant colors, reminiscent of a peacock's plumage, yet more resplendent and divine.

The Couatl is a creature of profound wisdom and benevolence, often regarded as a guardian of ancient secrets and sacred places. It is said that their eyes, deep and knowing, can peer into the very soul of a being, discerning truth from falsehood with an unerring gaze. Despite their formidable presence, Couatls are known for their gentle nature, choosing to guide and protect rather than dominate or destroy.

Legends speak of the Couatl as messengers of the gods, sent to the mortal realm to uphold justice and balance. They are revered by many cultures as symbols of hope and enlightenment, often depicted in ancient carvings and tapestries as celestial serpents entwined with the stars. It is whispered among the wise that those who earn the favor of a Couatl may receive visions of the future or insights into the mysteries of the universe.

In their natural habitat, Couatls are elusive, preferring the solitude of hidden temples or the tranquility of sacred groves. They are drawn to places of power, where the veil between worlds is thin, and the air hums with ancient magic. Here, they dwell in harmony with the land, their presence a blessing to the flora and fauna that share their domain.

Encountering a Couatl is a rare and wondrous event, one that fills the air with a palpable sense of awe and reverence. As it unfurls its magnificent wings and takes to the sky, the very jungle seems to hold its breath, as if acknowledging the passage of a divine being. For those fortunate enough to witness such a sight, the memory of the Couatl lingers long after, a reminder of the beauty and mystery that lies hidden in the world.

Couatl Skills & Traits

Skills

• Arcana +5
• History +5
• Insight +6
• Perception +6
• Religion +5
• Stealth +5

Senses

• Truesight 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 16

Languages

• All, Telepathy 120 ft.

Abilities

• Innate Spellcasting: The couatl's spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 14). It can innately cast the following spells, requiring only verbal components:
  • At will: detect evil and good, detect magic, detect thoughts
  • 3/day each: bless, create food and water, cure wounds, lesser restoration, protection from poison, sanctuary, shield
  • 1/day each: dream, greater restoration, scrying
• Magic Weapons: The couatl's weapon attacks are magical.
• Shielded Mind: The couatl is immune to scrying and to any effect that would sense its emotions or read its thoughts.

Actions

• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 5) piercing damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or be poisoned for 24 hours. Until this poison ends, the target is unconscious. Another creature can use an action to shake the target awake.
• Constrict: Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one Medium or smaller creature. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage, and the target is grappled (escape DC 15). Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained, and the couatl can't constrict another target.
• Change Shape: The couatl magically polymorphs into a humanoid or beast that has a challenge rating equal to or less than its own, or back into its true form. It reverts to its true form if it dies. Any equipment it is wearing or carrying is absorbed or borne by the new form (the couatl's choice).

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Battle Tips for the Couatl

The Couatl is a celestial serpent known for its intelligence, magical abilities, and benevolent nature. As a Dungeon Master, utilizing a Couatl in your campaign can provide a unique challenge for players, blending combat with moral dilemmas. Here are some tips on how to effectively use a Couatl in battle:

Using the Couatl in Battle

• Strategic Use of Spells: The Couatl has access to a variety of spells, including Detect Thoughts, Invisibility, and Greater Restoration. Use these spells to gather information, protect allies, or heal during combat. The Couatl's spellcasting can turn the tide of battle, so consider its role as a support character rather than a frontline fighter.
• Shapechanging Abilities: The Couatl can use its Change Shape ability to transform into a humanoid or beast. This can be used to infiltrate enemy lines, gather intelligence, or escape from a dangerous situation. As a DM, you can use this ability to create unexpected twists in the narrative.
• Flight and Mobility: With a flying speed of 90 feet, the Couatl can easily maneuver around the battlefield. Use this to your advantage by having the Couatl attack from above or retreat to a safe distance when threatened. Its mobility makes it difficult for melee-focused characters to pin down.

Coordinating Multiple Couatls

• Telepathic Communication: Couatls can communicate telepathically with each other, allowing them to coordinate their actions seamlessly. Use this to orchestrate complex strategies, such as flanking maneuvers or synchronized spellcasting.
• Combined Spellcasting: Multiple Couatls can work together to cast spells in unison, creating powerful magical effects. For example, they could use Invisibility to hide an entire party or Greater Restoration to remove multiple debuffs at once.
• Defensive Formations: When facing a formidable foe, Couatls can form a defensive perimeter, using their bodies to shield allies or important objectives. This can buy time for the party to regroup or for reinforcements to arrive.

Fleeing and Retreat Tactics

• Invisibility for Escape: If the battle turns against them, Couatls can use Invisibility to retreat without being detected. This can be a useful tactic to preserve their strength for future encounters.
• Flight to Safety: With their high flying speed, Couatls can quickly disengage from combat and retreat to a safe location. Use this to regroup and plan a counterattack or to lead enemies into a trap.
• Illusions and Misdirection: Couatls can use their magical abilities to create illusions or distractions, allowing them to escape unnoticed. This can be particularly effective in environments with plenty of cover or obstacles.

Incorporating a Couatl into your campaign can add depth and complexity to encounters, challenging players to think strategically and consider the moral implications of their actions. Whether used as an ally or an adversary, the Couatl's unique abilities make it a memorable addition to any adventure.