Quasit

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Quasit Introduction

In the dim, flickering light of the underworld, where shadows dance with a life of their own, there lurks a creature of malevolent cunning and insidious intent. The Quasit, a tiny fiend of demonic origin, is a master of deception and trickery, often serving as a familiar to those who dare to dabble in dark arts. Its appearance is a grotesque parody of life, with a leathery, greenish skin that seems to absorb the very light around it, rendering it almost invisible in the gloom.

The Quasit stands no taller than a foot, yet its presence is far more imposing than its size would suggest. Its eyes, glowing with a sinister red hue, peer out from a face twisted into a perpetual sneer. Sharp, needle-like teeth line its mouth, ready to rend flesh with a vicious bite. Its spindly limbs end in clawed hands and feet, perfect for climbing or latching onto unsuspecting prey. A pair of bat-like wings sprout from its back, allowing it to glide silently through the air, a shadow among shadows.

Quasits are most commonly found in the dark recesses of the Abyss, a realm of chaos and evil where they thrive amidst the turmoil. However, they are also known to inhabit the material plane, often lurking in the forgotten corners of ancient ruins, abandoned crypts, or the lairs of those who summon them. These creatures are drawn to places where the veil between worlds is thin, where they can slip between dimensions with ease.

Legends speak of the Quasit's ability to shape-shift into small animals, such as a bat, centipede, or toad, using this power to spy on or mislead those who cross its path. It is said that a Quasit can sense the presence of magic and will often seek out powerful artifacts or spellcasters to serve, hoping to further its own nefarious goals. Despite their diminutive size, Quasits are not to be underestimated, for their cunning and malice make them formidable foes.

As you venture deeper into the shadows, be wary of the Quasit's presence. Its laughter, a chilling echo in the darkness, may be the only warning you receive before it strikes. Remember, in the world of demons and devils, even the smallest creature can cast the longest shadow.

Quasit Skills & Traits

Skills

• Stealth +5

Senses

• Darkvision 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 10

Languages

• Abyssal
• Common

Abilities

• Shapechanger: The quasit can use its action to polymorph into a beast form that resembles a bat (speed 10 ft. fly 40 ft.), a centipede (40 ft., climb 40 ft.), or a toad (40 ft., swim 40 ft.), or back into its true form. Its statistics are the same in each form, except for the speed changes noted. Any equipment it is wearing or carrying isn't transformed. It reverts to its true form if it dies.
• Magic Resistance: The quasit has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
• Magic Weapons: The quasit's weapon attacks are magical.

Actions

• Claws (Bite in Beast Form): Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 10 Constitution saving throw or take 5 (2d4) poison damage and become poisoned for 1 minute. The target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success.
• Scare (1/Day): One creature of the quasit's choice within 20 feet of it must succeed on a DC 10 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. The target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, with disadvantage if the quasit is within line of sight, ending the effect on itself on a success.
• Invisibility: The quasit magically turns invisible until it attacks or uses Scare, or until its concentration ends (as if concentrating on a spell). Any equipment the quasit wears or carries is invisible with it.

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Battle Tips for Quasit

The Quasit is a small, fiendish creature often used by more powerful demons or spellcasters as spies or familiars. Despite their diminutive size, they can be quite troublesome in battle due to their ability to shape-shift and turn invisible. Here are some tips for Dungeon Masters on how to effectively use Quasits in combat scenarios:

Using Quasits in Battle

• Stealth and Surprise: Quasits can turn invisible at will, making them excellent for ambushes. Use their invisibility to position them strategically before combat begins, allowing them to strike from unexpected angles.
• Shape-shifting Tactics: With their ability to polymorph into animals like bats, centipedes, or toads, Quasits can infiltrate areas unnoticed or escape when the battle turns against them. Use this ability to gather intelligence or retreat to fight another day.
• Poisonous Claws: Their claws are coated with a mild poison that can weaken opponents. Have them target spellcasters or other high-value targets to reduce their effectiveness early in the fight.

Coordinating Multiple Quasits

• Swarm Tactics: A group of Quasits can overwhelm opponents by attacking from multiple directions. Use their numbers to distract and divide the party, making it difficult for them to focus on a single target.
• Hit-and-Run: Quasits can use their invisibility and speed to perform hit-and-run attacks. Have them dart in to attack and then retreat to safety, wearing down the party over time.
• Illusions and Confusion: Use their ability to create minor illusions to confuse and mislead the party. This can be particularly effective in environments with lots of cover or in dimly lit areas.

Fleeing and Survival

• Escape Routes: Always have an escape plan for Quasits. Their small size and ability to turn invisible make them excellent at slipping away when the battle turns against them.
• Regrouping: If forced to flee, Quasits can regroup and return with reinforcements or new tactics. Use this to keep the party on their toes and wary of future encounters.
• Feigning Weakness: Quasits can pretend to be defeated or injured to lure the party into a trap or ambush. Use this tactic to turn the tables on unsuspecting adventurers.

By leveraging their unique abilities and cunning, Quasits can be a formidable challenge for any adventuring party. Use these tips to maximize their potential in your campaign.