Kirin 5e: Stats, Abilities & How To Encounter - D&D Guide
Could a creature of myth and legend truly exist, a celestial being of immense power and profound grace, a guardian of peace and prosperity? The Kirin, a magnificent creature of both draconic and ungulate lineage, is a testament to the enduring power of myth, and a formidable presence in the world of Dungeons & Dragons.
Delving into the lore of the Kirin reveals a creature of fascinating complexity. Often depicted with the body of a stag and the hardened hide of a dragon, the Kirin is more than just a physical marvel; it embodies a sense of justice, tranquility, and a profound connection to the celestial realms. To truly appreciate this creature, we must journey into its abilities, skills, and the unique ways in which it interacts with its environment and those who dare to cross its path. The Kirin's appearance, according to ancient texts, is often associated with times of peace and the arrival of enlightened rulers, signifying its inherent connection to harmony and well-being.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kirin (Taisho Kirin, Huangdi Qilin) |
| Origin | Upper Planes, East Asia (Inspired by Chinese and Japanese mythology) |
| Type | Celestial |
| Physical Description | Stag body, dragon's hide, often depicted as a draconic unicorn |
| Alignment | Generally Good (Lawful Good) |
| Abilities |
|
| Skills | Insight, Perception, Religion, History |
| Senses | Darkvision, Truesight, Blindsight, Passive Perception |
| Languages | All, Telepathy |
| Challenge Rating | 12 (8,400 XP) |
| Damage Immunities | Poison, Fire, Poisoned (Condition), Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from nonmagical attacks, Radiant |
| Condition Immunities | Charmed, Poisoned |
| Reference | D&D Wiki: Taisho Kirin |
The Kirins abilities showcase a being of extraordinary power and resilience. Its Storm Shield, a manifestation of its control over the elements, not only enhances its defenses but also disrupts its adversaries. The Kirin can summon a tempestuous field around itself or another creature within its view, granting a significant bonus to Armor Class (AC) and imposing disadvantage on ranged attacks targeting that individual. This ability makes the Kirin a challenging opponent in combat and a staunch protector of those it deems worthy. Furthermore, the Kirin has the capacity to harness ambient electricity, drawing it in to replenish its vitality. This is represented by its ability to absorb electricity and regain a substantial number of hit points, demonstrating a unique interaction with the environment. It is also proficient in skills such as Insight, Perception, and Religion, reflecting its wisdom, awareness, and spiritual connection. Moreover, the creature is immune to poison, fire, and various forms of nonmagical damage, a testament to its celestial nature.
The Kirin's senses are as remarkable as its other abilities. It possesses darkvision, allowing it to see in the dark, and truesight, granting it the ability to perceive the true form of creatures and objects, even if they are magically disguised. Furthermore, its passive perception, at a score of 19, indicates exceptional awareness of its surroundings. The Kirin's ability to communicate through telepathy is another defining feature, allowing it to effortlessly communicate with other creatures. In terms of its physical capabilities, the Kirin is noted for its natural armor, with an Armor Class (AC) of 20, signifying its inherent protection. It has a considerable number of hit points, around 270, making it durable in battle, and a speed of 60 feet, with a fly speed of 120 feet, enabling it to move swiftly across the battlefield. Finally, its mastery extends to all languages, allowing it to communicate with a wide variety of beings.
The Kirins combat prowess is bolstered by its legendary actions. These actions are a special set of abilities that the Kirin can employ at the end of another creatures turn. It can make one attack with its hooves, a testament to its physical strength, or it can activate its Storm Shield, adding to its defensive capabilities. Additionally, it has the capacity to move up to half its speed without provoking attacks of opportunity, allowing it to reposition strategically during combat. The Kirin can also use an ability known as Interposing," where it intercepts attacks or spells meant for another creature, effectively taking the hit instead. In this instance, it gains resistance to all damage received, and advantage on any saving throws resulting from the attack. The Kirin is designed to be an intelligent and adaptable combatant, capable of responding effectively to different threats.
Encountering a Kirin is a rare and auspicious event, signifying the arrival of a time of peace and prosperity. The Kirin is extremely gentle by nature, its presence often heralding a dawn of a new age. However, despite its gentle nature, the Kirin is not to be underestimated. Its challenge rating of 12, with an experience point (XP) value of 8,400, highlights its formidable strength. It is a creature that demands respect, and one that can provide significant rewards to those who earn its favor. A Kirin's celestial nature also has a profound impact on the environment. It is able to transform the region around it, and the objects it chooses will materialize in unoccupied spaces on the floor of its lair, further emphasizing its connection to the divine and the tangible transformation it brings.
The Kirin's origins are steeped in mythology, with roots in both Japanese and Chinese traditions. The term "Kirin" itself is a fascinating case, as it also refers to a Japanese beer and the company that brews it. However, before becoming a beer, the Kirin was a mythical creature that was believed to appear during the arrival or passing of a sage or an illustrious ruler. These earliest references to the Kirin trace back to the 5th century BCE, illustrating the longevity and widespread influence of this mythical being.
The Kirin's role in the cosmology of Dungeons & Dragons is that of a celestial being from the upper planes. Its presence is an emblem of the forces of good and order. They are powerful spellcasters, and roam the skies, seeking opportunities to reward good deeds and punish malefactors. The Kirins inherent role is one of a guardian and a benefactor, always vigilant in its pursuit of justice and harmony. The creatures actions and abilities underscore its dedication to maintaining balance and promoting virtue. Whether it's bestowing blessings upon the deserving or delivering retribution to those who transgress, the Kirin remains a symbol of hope and righteousness.
The Kirin's significance extends beyond its combat abilities and celestial attributes. It serves as an embodiment of the virtues of compassion, wisdom, and justice. Encountering a Kirin in a game of Dungeons & Dragons is not just a test of combat prowess, but also a challenge to uphold one's moral compass. It is a reminder of the importance of goodness and the potential for celestial intervention in the lives of mortals. The Kirin, therefore, is more than a creature; it is a symbol of hope and a call to righteousness.
In summary, the Kirin is a majestic and multifaceted creature, blending celestial power with a gentle nature. Its presence in the world of Dungeons & Dragons adds a layer of depth and wonder to the game. From its formidable abilities to its connection to the ethereal and its embodiment of virtue, the Kirin stands as a memorable and awe-inspiring element for players to discover. Despite their inherent strength, to encounter the Kirin should be celebrated, because their appearance often indicates the promise of better times to come.
