Candling
Candlings are tiny constructs that come in a variety of designs. They typically feature a large ball bearing instead of legs, and are crowned with a candle that has a small, ever-burning flame. Humble in form and design, created to serve their makers with boundless enthusiasm, carrying light, unlocking doors, and providing just a little bit of warmth and comfort.
Flame that Endures. The flame atop a Candling’s head burns aided by a little arcane power. Protected by intricate enchantments, the flame consumes the wax at a far slower rate than a common candle. However, the magic cannot halt the wax melting completely. Over months or years, depending on their toil and the strength of their binding, a Candling’s candle eventually melts completely, which renders them inanimate.
Rebirth in Wax. Mages and artificers who tend to Candlings simply reshape a new wick and fresh wax around the remains of the previous candle. Through this process of renewal, the Candling retains its memories, its small quirks of personality, and its loyalty to its master. Thus, some Candlings have served households, guilds, and temples for generations and centuries.
Whimsical Candle. Candlings are kind and gentle things. In the quiet times between tasks, a Candling might be seen tracing patterns on the floor to entertain itself. Some like to chase around insects, or like dancing in slow circles across a windowsill. Each candling has their own small rituals and habits to pass the time.
Show statblock
Candling
Tiny construct, neutral
Armor Class
10
Hit Points
9 (2d4 +4)
Speed
20ft.
STR
2 (-4)
DEX
10 (+0)
CON
10 (+0)
INT
6 (-2)
WIS
15 (+2)
CHA
7 (-2)
Saving throws
Dexterity +2
Glowing Presence. The Candling sheds bright light in a 20ft. radius and dim light for an additional 20ft.
Innate Spellcasting. The Candling’s innate spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12). It can innately cast the following spells, requiring no material or verbal components:
At will: Mage Hand, Thaumaturgy
1/day each: Faerie Fire, Knock
Actions
Candleflame Bolt. Ranged Spell Attack: +4 to hit, range 60ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) Fire damage.
Reactions
Meltdown. When the Candling is reduced to 0 hit points, it can can explode in a burst of hot wax. Each creature within 5ft. must make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 12). On a failed save they take 5 (2d4) Fire damage
Aw, cute. Great article.