Spined Devil

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Spined Devil Introduction

In the shadowy recesses of the Nine Hells, where the air is thick with the acrid scent of sulfur and the ground is scorched by eternal flames, lurks a creature both sinister and cunning—the Spined Devil. These fiendish beings are the embodiment of malice, their very presence a harbinger of chaos and despair. As you venture deeper into the infernal realms, the oppressive heat and the distant wails of tormented souls serve as a constant reminder of the peril that awaits.

The Spined Devil is a sight to behold, its leathery wings unfurling with a menacing grace as it takes to the air. Its skin is a mottled blend of crimson and obsidian, a perfect camouflage against the fiery backdrop of its hellish home. Sharp, barbed spines protrude from its back, glistening with a venomous sheen, ready to be launched at unsuspecting prey. Its eyes, glowing with an eerie, malevolent light, seem to pierce through the very fabric of one's soul, leaving a lingering sense of dread in their wake.

These devils are not mere brutes; they are cunning tacticians, often serving as scouts or messengers for more powerful fiends. Their ability to blend into the shadows and their penchant for ambush make them formidable adversaries. When not engaged in the service of their infernal masters, Spined Devils delight in sowing discord and fear, their cackling laughter echoing through the desolate wastelands of the Hells.

Legends speak of Spined Devils as the eyes and ears of the infernal hierarchy, ever watchful and ever ready to report the slightest hint of rebellion or weakness. It is said that those who encounter a Spined Devil and live to tell the tale are marked by a curse, their dreams haunted by visions of fire and torment. Beware, for these creatures are not to be underestimated, and their presence is often a prelude to greater evils yet to come.

Spined Devil Skills & Traits

Skills

• Stealth +2

Senses

• Darkvision 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 11

Languages

• Infernal
• Telepathy 120 ft.

Abilities

• Devil's Sight: Magical darkness doesn't impede the devil's darkvision.
• Flyby: The devil doesn't provoke opportunity attacks when it flies out of an enemy's reach.
• Limited Spines: The devil has twelve tail spines. Used spines regrow by the time the devil finishes a long rest.

Actions

• Multiattack: The devil makes two attacks: one with its bite and one with its fork or two with its tail spines.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage.
• Fork: Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
• Tail Spine: Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range 20/80 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage plus 3 (1d6) fire damage.

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Battle Tips for Spined Devil

The Spined Devil, also known as Spinagon, is a small but cunning fiend that can be a formidable opponent in battle. Here are some tips for Dungeon Masters on how to effectively use Spined Devils in combat scenarios:

• Utilize Their Mobility: Spined Devils have the ability to fly, which allows them to stay out of reach of melee attackers. Use their flight to harass players from above, darting in and out of range to deliver attacks while avoiding retaliation.
• Exploit Their Ranged Attacks: With their ability to hurl fiery spines, Spined Devils can attack from a distance. Position them in elevated or hard-to-reach areas where they can rain down spines on the party, forcing players to deal with them before they can focus on other threats.
• Coordinate with Other Devils: When using multiple Spined Devils, have them work in tandem to focus fire on a single target. This can quickly overwhelm a player character, especially if the devils are targeting a squishy spellcaster or a wounded fighter.
• Use Hit-and-Run Tactics: Spined Devils can be effective in hit-and-run tactics. Have them swoop in to attack and then retreat to a safe distance, drawing players into traps or ambushes set by other creatures.
• Flee When Necessary: Spined Devils are intelligent enough to know when they are outmatched. If the battle turns against them, they can use their flight to escape and regroup, potentially returning with reinforcements or to attack the party when they are vulnerable.
• Leverage Their Immunities: Being immune to fire and poison, Spined Devils can be used in environments or alongside creatures that utilize these elements, creating a hazardous battlefield for the players while the devils remain unharmed.

By using these tactics, Dungeon Masters can create challenging and dynamic encounters with Spined Devils that will test the strategic thinking and adaptability of their players.