One in a hundred tadpoles born on the Astral Plane undergoes a rare transformation, infused by the sea of astral energy, into an astral tadpole with psychic powers. These tadpoles are easily recognized among their clutch, thanks to their bioluminescent tails that shift through a spectrum of colors. As they mature, astral tadpoles grow to a length of 10 inches and sprout small appendages. Their skin transitions from pale brown to a pearlescent hue with vivid spots. Eventually, they develop psionic-powered flight, allowing them to “swim” effortlessly through the astral sea.
Generally harmless, astral tadpoles only defend themselves when threatened, using their array of psionic abilities. Against predators, they weaken mental defenses before disorienting and confusing their attackers with psionic spells. If the chance presents itself, the tadpole will flee and hide.
Roasted astral tadpoles are a common delicacy in markets across the astral sea, believed to enhance longevity and bring good luck. This belief has driven up demand, making astral tadpole farming a lucrative venture. While many have tried to artificially increase the occurrence of these rare tadpoles, such attempts have so far been unsuccessful.
Within the illicit underworld, the mind-altering properties of astral tadpoles are exploited. Tranquil dens offer clients hours of euphoric experiences under the tadpoles’ influence, free of the distraction of the outside world and authorities. However, repeated exposure to their psychic abilities can lead to lethargy and memory loss over time.
Astral Tadpole
Tiny Monstrosity, Unaligned
Armor Class 13
Hit Points 28 (8d4 + 8)
Speed 10 ft., fly 30 ft. (hover), swim 30 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 (-2) | 16 (+3) | 13 (+1) | 3 (-4) | 16 (+3) | 6 (-2) |
Skills Insight +5, Perception +5
Damage Immunities psychic
Condition Immunities charmed
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 15
Languages —
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Proficiency Bonus +2
Magic Resistance. The tadpole has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
Unusual Nature. The tadpole doesn’t require air.
Actions
Multiattack. The tadpole makes two Psychic Spike attacks. It can replace one attack with a use of Spellcasting.
Psychic Spike. Melee or Ranged Spell Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 120 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) psychic damage and the target has disadvantage on the next ability check or saving throw it makes before the start of the tadpole’s next turn.
Spellcasting (Psionics). The tadpole casts one of the following spells, requiring no material components and using Wisdom as the spellcasting ability (spell save DC 13):
- At will: minor illusion
- 1/day each: charm person, command, fear, hideous laughter
Reactions
Illusory Duplicate. If the tadpole is attacked by a creature it can see, it creates an illusion of itself. The attack has disadvantage. Hit or miss, the illusion vanishes.
Downloads
Further Reading
A campaign focused on psionics might find espers more common.
The mind harvest is a bigger and scarier mind altering creature.
Imagery created with Midjourney.
