GITHZERAI MONK – 5e stats

Medium humanoid (gith), lawful neutral

Armor Class 14
Hit Points 38 (7d8 + 7)
Speed 30 ft.

Proficiency Bonus +2
Proficiency Bonus +4 (5th Edition Advanced Mode)

STRDEXCONINTWISCHA
12 (+1)15 (+2)12 (+1)13 (+1)14 (+2)10 (+0)

Saving Throws Str +3, Dex +4, Int +3, Wis +4
Skills Insight +4, Perception +4
Senses passive Perception 14
Languages Gith
Challenge 2 (450 XP)

Innate Spellcasting (Psionics). The githzerai’s innate spellcasting ability is Wisdom. It can innately cast the following spells, requiring no components:

Psychic Defense. While the githzerai is wearing no armor and wielding no shield, its AC includes its Wisdom modifier.

ACTIONS

  • Multiattack. The githzerai makes two unarmed strikes.
  • Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) bludgeoning damage plus 9 (2d8) psychic damage. This is a magic weapon attack.

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

The Githzerai Monk is a humanoid creature that belongs to the gith race, a group of former slaves of the mind flayers. The githzerai are the descendants of a faction that rebelled against their oppressors and sought refuge in the chaotic plane of Limbo. They have adapted to the ever-changing environment by developing psionic abilities and a philosophy of self-discipline and harmony. The githzerai monk is a typical example of this culture, combining martial arts, magic, and mental powers into a formidable warrior.

The githzerai monk has a tall and slender body, with rough and leathery yellow skin that sometimes has greenish or brownish tones. Their skulls are long and angular, with deep-set black eyes, flattened noses, and long pointed ears. Their hair is usually black, russet, or gray, and they either shave it or wear it in braids. They have sharp teeth and a calm demeanor. They favor practical and unadorned clothing, with some simple jewelry at most.

COMBAT

The githzerai monk is a skilled fighter that relies on speed, agility, and psionics to overcome their enemies. They use their fists, feet, and weapons such as quarterstaffs or daggers to deliver powerful blows that can stun or knock down their foes. They can also use their innate psionic abilities to manipulate objects, create shields, or read minds. They are adept at dodging attacks and using their surroundings to their advantage.

The githzerai monk is not a mindless aggressor, but rather a cautious and strategic combatant. They prefer to avoid unnecessary violence and only fight when provoked or threatened. They are loyal to their allies and will protect them from harm. They are also wary of their enemies, especially the githyanki, their long-time rivals who dwell in the Astral Plane.

HABITAT / SOCIETY

The githzerai monk lives in the plane of Limbo, a realm of pure chaos where nothing is stable or predictable. The githzerai have learned to shape the raw matter and energy of Limbo into habitable structures called zerths, where they practice their meditation and martial arts. The zerths are also defended by psionic wards that repel intruders and hostile forces.

The githzerai society is monastic and introspective, with a focus on self-knowledge and enlightenment. The githzerai monk is a respected member of this society, as they embody the ideals of discipline and harmony. The githzerai monk follows a leader called an anarch, who is a master of both magic and psionics. The anarchs guide the githzerai in their quest for spiritual growth and freedom from the influence of the mind flayers.

The githzerai monk rarely leaves Limbo, as they consider it their home and sanctuary. However, some githzerai monks may venture into other planes for various reasons, such as exploration, diplomacy, or adventure. They may also encounter travelers from other worlds who seek their wisdom or assistance. The githzerai monk is usually distrustful of outsiders, but may be willing to cooperate with them if they share a common goal or enemy.

ECOLOGY

The githzerai monk is an omnivorous creature that can survive on various foods found in Limbo or other planes. They have a lifespan of about 100 years, but may extend it through psionic techniques or magic. They are capable of reproducing with other githzerai or compatible races, but they do not form lasting bonds or families. Instead, they view all githzerai as their kin and comrades.

The githzerai monk has a minimal impact on the ecology of Limbo, as they do not exploit its resources or alter its nature. They respect the chaos of Limbo as a source of challenge and inspiration for their philosophy. They also avoid harming other creatures that dwell in Limbo, unless they pose a threat or interfere with their goals.

The githzerai monk has a more significant impact on the ecology of other planes, as they may influence the balance of power or the course of events through their actions. They may ally with or oppose other factions or races depending on their alignment or agenda. They may also introduce new elements or concepts to other cultures through their teachings or discoveries.