Swanmay

Medium humanoid (human, shapechanger), neutral good

Armor Class 13
Hit Points 52 (8d8 + 16)
Speed 30 ft. (fly 40 ft., swim 30 ft. in swam form)

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1( 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 18 (+4)

Skills Deception +6, Investigation +3, Perception +5, Persuasion +6, Stealth +5
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 15
Languages Common
Proficiency Bonus +2
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

SPECIAL TRAITS

  • Cloak Dependent. The swanmay wears a cloak of swan feathers, which holds the creature’s spirit. The cloak has an AC and hit points equal to that of the swanmay, but the garment can’t be directly harmed while the swanmay wears it. Without it, the swanmay can’t use its Change Shape ability. If the cloak is destroyed, the swanmay becomes poisoned and dies within 1 hour. A swanmay is willing to do anything in its power to recover the cloak if it is stolen, including serving the thief.
  • Enchanting Presence. Any non-swanmay creature that starts its turn within 60 feet of the swanmay must make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the creature is charmed by the swanmay for 1 minute. The charmed creature becomes obsessed with the swanmay. On a successful save, the creature becomes immune to any swanmay’s Enchanting Presence for 24 hours. Whenever the swanmay deals damage to the charmed creature, the creature can repeat the saving throw, ending the effect on itself on a success.
  • Keen Sight. The swanmay has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.
  • Swan Telepathy. The swanmay can communicate telepathically with swans and other avian creatures within 120 feet of it. This communication doesn’t convey concepts or abstract ideas; the swanmay understands only basic emotions and intentions.

ACTIONS

  • Multiattack (Humanoid Form Only). The swanmay makes two weapon attacks, one of which can be with its Hand Crossbow.
  • Shortsword (Humanoid Form Only). Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage.
  • Hand Crossbow (Humanoid Form Only). Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage.
  • Wings (Swan Form Only). Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d4 +3) bludgeoning damage.
  • Change Shape. The swanmay can use an action to magically polymorph into a swan-humanoid hybrid form or into a swan, 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.

ABOUT

A swanmay’s humanoid form is that of a young woman, her movements fluid and elegant, reminiscent of a swan gliding across the water. Her skin, as delicate as moonlit mist, carries a faint iridescence that seems to shimmer like the surface of a tranquil lake. Her eyes, deep and luminous, reflect the wisdom of ages and the mysteries of hidden realms.

Swanmays possess the ability to shapeshift into a swan-humanoid hybrid or a full swan using magical tokens. They are dedicated to the protection of nature, wildlife, and the balance of their ecosystems.

Swanmays are found in temperate wetlands and forested areas near bodies of water. They have a strong affinity for nature and are often found living close to swan populations, which they protect and care for.

Swanmays are independent protectors of the forests and wildlife. They actively oppose evil creatures that might otherwise decimate wildlife and the countryside. They use their keen senses and survival skills to track down and confront threats to their domain. In combat, they prefer stealth and hit-and-run tactics to outmaneuver their foes.

Swanmays value their independence and solitude, often choosing to live in hidden lodgings near bodies of water. They share a strong bond with avian creatures, particularly swans, and are known to communicate telepathically with them.

Many enterprising villains seek to make swanmays their wives by stealing their feathered cloaks. The swanmay is obligated to stay, incapable of escaping while in servitude to whomever holds its cloak hostage.

Encountering a swanmay is a rare event, as they prefer to remain hidden from the eyes of ordinary adventurers. However, those who prove themselves as allies of nature and exhibit a deep respect for the balance of life may gain their trust and assistance. Swanmays are fiercely opposed to evil creatures that threaten the natural world and are willing to join forces with adventurers who share their cause.

Section 15: Copyright Notice

5E RPG: Celtic Bestiary. Copyright 2023, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC; Author Michael Tresca.

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