Guardian Naga
- Size: Large
- Type: Celestial
- Alignment: Lawful Good
- AC: 18
- Initiative: +4 (14)
- HP: 136 (16d10 + 48)
- Speed: 40 ft, Climb 40 ft, Swim 40 ft.
| ATTR | VAL | MOD | SAVE |
|---|---|---|---|
| STR | 19 | +4 | +4 |
| DEX | 18 | +4 | +8 |
| CON | 16 | +3 | +7 |
| INT | 16 | +3 | +7 |
| WIS | 19 | +4 | +8 |
| CHA | 18 | +4 | +8 |
- Skills: Arcana +11, History +11, Religion +11
- Senses: Darkvision 60 ft; Passive Perception 14
- Languages: Celestial, Common
- CR: 10 (XP 5,900; PB +4)
Traits
Celestial Restoration. If the naga dies, it returns to life in 1d6 days and regains all its Hit Points unless Dispel Evil and Good is cast on its remains.
Actions
Multiattack. The naga makes two Bite attacks. It can replace any attack with a use of Poisonous Spittle.
Bite. Melee Attack Roll: +8, reach 10 ft. Hit: 17 (2d12 + 4) Piercing damage plus 22 (4d10) Poison damage.
Poisonous Spittle. Constitution Saving Throw: DC 16, one creature the naga can see within 60 feet. Failure: 31 (7d8) Poison damage, and the target has the Blinded condition until the start of the naga's next turn. Success: Half damage only.
Spellcasting. The naga casts one of the following spells, requiring no Somatic or Material components and using Wisdom as the spellcasting ability (spell save DC 16):
At Will: Thaumaturgy
1/Day Each: Clairvoyance, Cure Wounds (level 6 version), Flame Strike (level 6 version), Geas, True Seeing
Lore & Background
Guardian nagas are noble serpentine beings created by the gods to protect sacred places, powerful artifacts, and important secrets. These wise and ancient creatures possess human-like torsos with serpentine lower bodies, combining physical grace with powerful magical abilities. Unlike their evil cousins, guardian nagas are steadfast protectors who take their divine responsibilities seriously, often serving as guardians for temples, libraries, and other locations of great significance.
These creatures are immortal beings who measure time in centuries and millennia, developing deep wisdom and patience through their long existence. Guardian nagas are capable of great kindness to those who approach with pure intentions, but they are implacable foes to any who would defile or steal what they protect. They often form bonds with worthy mortals, serving as mentors and guides.
Combat Tactics
Guardian nagas are formidable opponents who combine physical attacks with powerful spellcasting abilities. Their Bite attack delivers potent poison that can quickly incapacitate enemies, while their Spit Poison allows them to attack at range. As accomplished spellcasters, they use their magic strategically to control the battlefield and protect their charges.
These creatures prefer to avoid combat when possible, using their wisdom and diplomatic skills to resolve conflicts peacefully. When forced to fight, they use their mobility and reach to keep enemies at optimal distance while employing spells to maximum effect.
Encounter Ideas
The Sacred Guardian: A guardian naga protects an ancient temple, testing visitors to determine their worthiness to enter the sacred space.
The Keeper of Secrets: A guardian naga holds crucial information needed by the party but will only share it with those who prove their noble intentions.
The Wounded Protector: A guardian naga has been injured defending its charge and seeks the party's help to restore its strength and continue its duties.
The Test of Character: A guardian naga presents the party with moral dilemmas and challenges to test their character before allowing them to proceed.
Lair Features
Guardian naga lairs are typically beautiful and serene spaces that reflect their divine purpose. Sacred pools provide places for meditation and scrying, while ancient libraries contain wisdom accumulated over millennia. Shrine chambers honor the deities or principles the naga serves.
Magical barriers and protective wards safeguard the most important areas, while comfortable furnishings accommodate visitors who have earned the naga's trust. Gardens of rare and magical plants often surround the lair.
Environmental Effects
Guardian nagas create an atmosphere of peace and sanctity around their lairs. Divine energy permeates the area, providing protection against evil influences and enhancing the effectiveness of healing magic.
Plant life flourishes in their presence, growing larger and more vibrant than normal. Water sources become pure and may gain minor healing properties, while the air itself feels clean and refreshing.
Treasure
Guardian nagas accumulate treasures related to their protective duties and divine service. Religious artifacts, holy symbols, and blessed items are common, as are scrolls containing divine wisdom and books of ancient knowledge.
Magical items that aid in protection and healing are particularly prized, while gems and precious metals are often crafted into items of religious significance. Offerings from grateful visitors may include valuable gifts and rare materials.
Plot Hooks
The Divine Mission: A guardian naga recruits the party to complete a sacred quest that it cannot abandon its post to undertake personally.
The Corrupted Guardian: A guardian naga has been tainted by evil magic and must be cleansed before it destroys what it was meant to protect.
The Ancient Pact: A guardian naga's protection is bound by an ancient agreement that is about to expire, requiring the party to help renegotiate or renew the contract.
The Stolen Relic: Someone has managed to steal an artifact from under a guardian naga's protection, and the creature seeks the party's help to recover it and restore its honor.
Lore & Background
Guardian nagas are noble serpentine creatures dedicated to protecting sacred places and ancient knowledge. These wise beings possess powerful magic and an unwavering sense of duty that spans millennia. Guardian nagas are typically benevolent, serving as protectors of temples, libraries, and other important locations.
Unlike their malevolent cousins, guardian nagas use their abilities to preserve and protect rather than corrupt and destroy. They are patient teachers and wise counselors to those who prove themselves worthy.
Combat Tactics
Guardian nagas prefer to avoid combat, using their spells to deter or redirect intruders. When forced to fight, they combine their bite attack with powerful spellcasting, often using protective magic to shield allies while hindering enemies.
Encounter Ideas
Temple Guardian: A naga protects an ancient shrine from desecration. Knowledge Keeper: A naga guards a library containing dangerous or sacred texts. Divine Test: A naga challenges visitors to prove their worthiness. Ancient Alliance: A naga honors an old pact by providing aid to heroes.
Environmental Effects
Guardian naga territories are blessed with positive energy. Plants grow more vibrantly, and the area radiates an aura of peace and protection that deters evil creatures.
Treasure
Guardian nagas possess collections of ancient texts, religious artifacts, and items of historical significance. Their hoards focus on knowledge and spiritual value rather than monetary worth.
Plot Hooks
The Failing Guardian: An aging naga seeks a successor to continue its sacred duty. Stolen Relic: A naga's protected artifact has been stolen by thieves or cultists. The Naga's Bargain: A naga offers knowledge in exchange for a dangerous service. Sacred Migration: A naga must relocate its protected site due to external threats.