Small humanoid (dwarf), chaotic evil
Armor Class 13 (leather armor)
Hit Points 13 (3d6 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency Bonus +2
Proficiency Bonus +2 (5th Edition Advanced Mode)
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 (-1) | 14 (+2) | 12 (+1) | 11 (+0) | 5 (-3) | 14 (+2) |
Skills Stealth +4
Senses darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 7
Languages Dwarvish, Undercommon
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Magic Resistance. The derro has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
Spellcasting. The derro savant is a 5th-level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 12, +4 to hit with spell attacks). The derro knows the following sorcerer spells:
- Cantrips (at will): acid splash, mage hand, message, prestidigitation,
ray of frost - 1st level (4 slots): burning hands, chromatic orb, sleep
- 2nd level (3 slots): invisibility, spider climb
- 3rd level (2 slots): lightning bolt
Sunlight Sensitivity. While in sunlight, the derro has disadvantage on attack rolls, as well as on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.
ACTIONS
- Quarterstaff. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2 (1d6 – 1) bludgeoning damage.
5th Edition Advanced Mode
Limiting the power of a character and making the overall difficulty of the game harder, does not reduce the creativity, indeed it does quite the opposite.
The Game Master has the option to use any and all of the instances proposed in this guide, or just some of them according to their preference.
It is the lack of something that move and motivate characters, not the abundance of it
DESCRIPTION
Derro Savants are twisted and insane dwarves that have developed sorcerous powers in the depths of the Underdark. They are usually pale-skinned, with wild hair, red eyes, and ragged clothing. They are paranoid and vicious, preying on the weak and fearing the strong. They worship a mysterious deity called Diirinka, who they believe grants them their magical abilities and sends them cryptic messages. Derro Savants are the leaders of their derro kin, who follow them blindly and obey their whims.
COMBAT
Derro Savants are cunning and ruthless in combat, using their magic to gain an edge over their enemies. They favor spells that deal elemental damage, such as burning hands, chromatic orb, and lightning bolt. They also use spells that enhance their mobility and stealth, such as invisibility and spider climb. They are not afraid to use their magic on themselves or their allies, even if it causes harm or madness. Derro Savants are resistant to magic, but vulnerable to sunlight, which impairs their vision and accuracy.
HABITAT / SOCIETY
Derro Savants dwell in the darkest corners of the Underdark, where they form small bands of derro that raid and scavenge for resources. They avoid contact with other races, unless they see an opportunity to exploit or enslave them. They are especially hostile to dwarves, who they consider to be traitors and rivals. Derro Savants are erratic and unpredictable, often changing their plans and goals on a whim. They communicate with each other in a mix of Dwarvish and Undercommon, using a code that only they can understand.
ECOLOGY
Derro Savants are aberrations that have been warped by the influence of the Underdark and the mind flayers. They have a twisted sense of humor and a penchant for cruelty. They have no regard for life or morality, only for their own survival and power. They are driven by a madness that makes them believe they are chosen by Diirinka, who they claim is the creator and master of all things. Derro Savants have a short lifespan, rarely living past 40 years. They reproduce by kidnapping and torturing other humanoids, creating more derro through a process of mutation and indoctrination.