Deva

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Deva Introduction

In the dim glow of the celestial realm, where the ethereal light dances upon the clouds, there exists a being of pure grace and divine purpose—the Deva. As you venture into this sacred domain, a sense of awe and reverence fills the air, for you are in the presence of a celestial guardian, a messenger of the gods themselves.

The Deva stands before you, a vision of otherworldly beauty and power. Its form is humanoid, yet transcendent, with skin that shimmers like polished marble under the starlit sky. Eyes that hold the wisdom of the ages gaze upon you with a serene intensity, their depths reflecting the boundless compassion and justice that guide this celestial being. Majestic wings, feathered in hues of silver and gold, unfurl gracefully from its back, casting a radiant halo of light that illuminates the surroundings.

In behavior, the Deva is both a protector and a guide, ever vigilant in its duty to uphold the balance between the mortal and divine realms. It moves with an elegance that belies its formidable strength, each step a testament to its unwavering resolve. Though its demeanor is calm and composed, there is an undeniable aura of authority that commands respect and inspires devotion. The Deva speaks with a voice that resonates like a celestial choir, its words imbued with the power to heal, to inspire, and to bring forth the truth.

The Deva's habitat is as wondrous as the creature itself, often found in places where the veil between worlds is thin. It dwells in sanctuaries of light and purity, be it the highest peaks of the celestial mountains or the sacred groves hidden deep within enchanted forests. These places are imbued with a divine energy, where the air is thick with the scent of blooming celestial flowers and the gentle hum of the universe's harmony can be heard.

Legends speak of the Deva as the harbinger of hope and redemption, appearing to those in dire need or at pivotal moments in history. Tales are told of its interventions in battles where the forces of darkness threatened to overwhelm the light, of its guidance to lost souls seeking redemption, and of its unwavering commitment to the cosmic order. To encounter a Deva is to stand at the crossroads of destiny, where the choices made can alter the course of fate itself.

As you stand in the presence of this celestial being, you feel a profound sense of purpose and clarity. The Deva's gaze meets yours, and in that moment, you understand that you are part of a greater tapestry, woven by the hands of the divine. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but with the Deva's guidance, you are reminded that even in the darkest of times, the light of hope will always prevail.

Deva Skills & Traits

Skills

• Insight +8
• Perception +8

Senses

• Darkvision 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 18

Languages

• All
• Telepathy 120 ft.

Abilities

• Angelic Weapons: The deva's weapon attacks are magical. When the deva hits with any weapon, the weapon deals an extra 4d8 radiant damage (included in the attack).
• Innate Spellcasting: The deva's spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 17). The deva can innately cast the following spells, requiring only verbal components:
  • At will: detect evil and good
  • 1/day each: commune, raise dead
• Magic Resistance: The deva has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.

Actions

• Multiattack: The deva makes two melee attacks.
• Mace: Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage plus 18 (4d8) radiant damage.
• Healing Touch (3/Day): The deva touches another creature. The target magically regains 20 (4d8 + 2) hit points and is freed from any curse, disease, poison, blindness, or deafness.
• Change Shape: The deva 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 deva's choice).
  • In a new form, the deva retains its game statistics and ability to speak, but its AC, movement modes, Strength, Dexterity, and special senses are replaced by those of the new form, and it gains any statistics and capabilities (except class features, legendary actions, and lair actions) that the new form has but that it lacks.

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Battle Tips for Deva

The Deva is a celestial being often found in the service of good-aligned deities. As a Dungeon Master, utilizing a Deva in your campaign can add a layer of divine intervention and moral complexity. Here are some tips on how to effectively use a Deva in battle:

Using a Deva in Battle

• Divine Presence: The Deva's mere presence can be a game-changer. Use its aura to inspire allies and intimidate foes. Consider having the Deva appear in a moment of dire need to turn the tide of battle.
• Healing and Support: With abilities like healing touch, a Deva can serve as a powerful support unit. Use it to heal key characters or remove debilitating conditions, keeping the party in fighting shape.
• Strategic Positioning: Devas can fly, giving them an advantage in positioning. Use this to keep them out of reach of melee attackers while they cast spells or provide support from above.

Coordinating Multiple Devas

• Team Synergy: Multiple Devas can coordinate their efforts to maximize their impact. One can focus on healing while another provides offensive support, creating a balanced and formidable team.
• Flanking Maneuvers: Use their flight ability to execute flanking maneuvers, surrounding enemies and forcing them to split their attention, which can be particularly effective against larger groups of foes.
• Layered Defenses: Devas can use their protective spells to create layered defenses, making it difficult for enemies to penetrate their lines. This can be especially useful in protecting weaker allies or important objectives.

Retreat and Tactical Withdrawal

• Covering Retreats: If the battle turns against them, Devas can use their spells to cover a retreat, such as casting spells that create barriers or illusions to confuse and slow down pursuers.
• Regrouping: Devas can use their flight to quickly regroup with allies, allowing them to plan a counterattack or find a more advantageous position.
• Divine Intervention: In dire situations, a Deva might call upon their celestial allies for aid, providing a narrative reason for a temporary retreat or a sudden shift in battle dynamics.

Incorporating a Deva into your campaign can provide a unique challenge and opportunity for your players. By leveraging their celestial abilities and strategic potential, you can create memorable encounters that test the party's resolve and ingenuity.