The Devouring Innocence
medium aberration (none), chaotic evil
Defense
Proficiencies & Senses
Characteristics
Traits
Innocent Gaze
As a bonus action, the Devouring Innocence can target one creature it can see within 30 feet, forcing them to make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed for 1 minute. While charmed in this way, creatures will perceive the Devouring Innocence as a harmless, sweet child.
All-consuming Mouth
On its turn, the Devouring Innocence can make one unarmed strike against a creature. On a hit, the target takes 12 (2d8 + 3) piercing damage and must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be engulfed by the Devouring Innocence's mouth. A creature that is engulfed is restrained and takes 10 (3d6) acid damage at the start of each of its turns.
Actions
Multiattack
The Devouring Innocence can make two attacks with its All-consuming Mouth.
Devour Whole
If the Devouring Innocence has a creature restrained, it can use its action to utterly devour the creature. The target must succeed on a DC 17 Constitution saving throw or take an additional 24 (7d6) acid damage and be reduced to 0 hit points. On a success, the target takes 12 (2d8) acid damage and is no longer restrained.
Reactions
Wretched Scream
When hit by an attack, the Devouring Innocence can emit a horrid scream, forcing all creatures within 30 feet to make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw. On a failure, they are deafened for 1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success.
Combat Behavior
Tactics
• Ambush unsuspecting travelers when they are vulnerable.
• Use its Innocent Gaze to charm a target before attacking.
• Retreat to the shadows when injured, only to return when the moment is right.
Combat Style
Predatory and cruel, focusing on charm effects and swift, decisive strikes.
Monster Description
The Devouring Innocence masks itself in the form of a cherubic child, its appearance so heartbreakingly tragic that it invites sympathy. Sporting wide, glistening eyes and a cherubic smile, its unsettlingly large mouth remains mostly shut, hinting at its monstrous nature only to the observant. Once it has lulled its prey into a false sense of security, it will open its maws wide, instantly consuming its victim whole. This monster is a terrifying reminder of how innocence can hide darkness beneath the surface. Its existence raises questions about the nature of monsters themselves: Are they born of evil, or do they emerge where innocence falters?Monster behavior
Typically, the Devouring Innocence will wander urban areas, particularly at twilight when shadows lengthen and vulnerability heightens. It awaits the ideal moment to pounce on unsuspecting victims, particularly those known to be kind-hearted or overly compassionate. Upon making contact, its childlike demeanor is often enough to disarm even the most hardened adventurers. The Devouring Innocence actively seeks out easy targets, drawing them near before revealing its true form to rectify the faux pas of approaching an unfamiliar child. It prefers to devour those who possess kind hearts, as their fear amplifies its aura of dread, filling it with greater power.Ecology
The Devouring Innocence fits within urban ecosystems, often feeding off the emotional energies of individuals who are drawn to its facade of childishness. The fear and despair experienced by its victims amplify its power and contribute to the cycle of horror it perpetuates. Due to its tragic yet horrific form, it also attracts other creatures of shadow and chaos, creating a network of aberrations that thrive on the fear and helplessness of the innocent. Such creatures often defend its territory fiercely, wanting to preserve the feeding ground.History
The origins of the Devouring Innocence are shrouded in mystery. It is said to arise from the remnants of powerful dark magic, perhaps the result of a child's lost soul twisted by malevolence into a monstrous entity. Legend speaks of ancient rituals that went awry, creating a rift through which this abomination emerged. Many townsfolk recount tales of a childhood game that took a dark turn, leading innocent souls astray, their righteousness feeding the creature's hunger. Despite its terrifying reputation, the Devouring Innocence remains a creature of shadows, often misunderstood by those who encounter it. Its true nature exemplifies the fear lurking behind figments of innocence, forever reminding mortals that not every child is safe, and not every smile is genuine.Ready to Unleash Your Dungeon Master Potential?
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