Hag
The Dark Coven
In Sylvan, they are referred to as creili (/ˈkɾˠɛɫɪ/), which translates to "witch" in Common. This is opposed to the word sánn (/ʃɑːɲ/) which is the Sylvan word for hag, which is instead used as a derrogatory word to refer to an old woman the fey find ugly or otherwise distasteful.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Hags have long, skinny fingers tipped with claws that can slice open flesh with a touch.
Biological Traits
Hags are fascinating creatures with a unique ability to transform themselves from one form to another throughout their lives. This transformation is not a mere physical change, but a complete overhaul of their entire being. They are capable of abandoning their old physiology and adopting that of a hag that is better suited to the environment in which they currently reside. This metamorphosis is achieved through the use of a ritual or with the help of a coven.
Aside from their impressive shape-shifting abilities, hags are also known for their magical prowess. They possess a variety of magical powers that they can use to alter their own form or to curse their enemies. It is said that their arrogance knows no bounds and they view their magic as a challenge to the power of the gods, whom they have been known to blaspheme at every opportunity.
Despite their fearsome reputation, hags are not without their weaknesses. They are vulnerable to certain types of magic and can be defeated by those with enough knowledge and skill. However, even in defeat, they remain formidable adversaries, and their cunning and guile make them a force to be reckoned with in any situation.
Annis hags are a fascinating and terrifying group of beings. They are the largest and most physically imposing of their kind, with hunched postures and bruise-blue or black skin. Their claws are like rusty blades, making them expert hunters and tormentors of the weak and fearful. Their cruelty is unmatched, and they leave tokens of it at the edges of forests and other areas they claim, provoking fear and distrust in nearby villages and settlements. This fear is not unfounded, as nothing is sweeter to an annis hag than making a once-vibrant community paralyzed with terror.
But their cruelty doesn't stop there. Annis hags are known to adopt the appearance of a kindly elder and approach children in remote places. They give these children tokens fashioned from their own teeth or nails, which grants them the ability to whisper with the hag. This is a dangerous bond, as the hag slowly convinces the child to do bad deeds, eventually corrupting them. The annis hag is a master manipulator, using her powers of persuasion to bend the will of even the most strong-willed individuals.
In addition to their manipulation of children, annis hags may also adopt a group of ogres, trolls, or other creatures. They rule these creatures through brute strength, insults, and superstition. This makes them a force to be reckoned with, capable of terrifying even the bravest of heroes.
So beware of the annis hag, for she is a truly fearsome creature. Her cunning and cruelty know no bounds, and she will stop at nothing to achieve her goals.
The barrow hag, a terrifying creature that dwells in graveyards and battlefields, is known for its grotesque appearance and insatiable appetite for the flesh of corpses. With sharp claws and a paralyzing tongue, it can easily overpower even the strongest of prey. What's more, these creatures possess powerful magic and are skilled at using it to accomplish their goals. They often keep several corpses in varying stages of decay, which they use to create loyal followers and attract other undead creatures such as ghouls and ghasts.
As the barrow hag grows in age and experience, its powers increase, and it becomes an accomplished necromancer. Its lair is often guarded by numerous undead, which makes it an even greater threat to anyone who dares to confront it. However, despite their fearsome reputation, barrow hags are not invincible. With the right combination of weapons and spells, they can be defeated, but it takes a brave soul to face them in battle.
Winter hags are notorious creatures that dwell in cold and snowy regions, particularly mountain peaks covered in snow. These creatures prefer to make their homes in wooden cottages or isolated mountainside caves. Travelers who wander the hags' territories often face the risk of freezing to death or being forced to seek refuge in the hags' hospitality. Winter hags are emaciated creatures with bluish skin that resembles that of a frozen corpse. The hags' hair is white, and their flesh is bruise-colored, surrounding pale eyes that stare into the void. The creatures carry a twisted gray wooden staff that augments their magic and can be ridden like a flying broom.
Winter hags are active during the winter season, using their ice and weather magic to wreak havoc on nearby settlements. These creatures take pleasure in seeing mortals freeze to death and rarely have room in their hearts for kin and community. Winter hags use their ability to manipulate weather to cause unbearable cold temperatures that instill despair in the villagers, turning them against each other. They are drawn to selfish actions inspired by deadly cold, such as murder or chopping down a dryad's grove for firewood. These actions make them more powerful and more dangerous.
Winter hags are known for posing as kindly wise people, selling herbal remedies and lucky charms. These remedies work for a while, but their efficacy fades, prompting the buyer to ask for something more permanent. The hag is always willing to help, but in return, they ask for a favor. The favor could be as simple as spreading gossip or playing a "harmless" prank on a neighbor. However, slowly but surely, things escalate until everyone in the village is at each other's throats, much to the hag's delight.
When a winter hag is near a recently slain foe, they may forgo attacking to feed on the corpse, which terrifies most witnesses. Winter hags are creatures that can cause significant harm and destruction, and it's best to avoid them at all costs.
Green hags are known to reside in areas such as dying forests, lonely swamps, and misty moors. They tend to make their homes in caves that are close enough to settlements so that they can prey on the lost and the lonely. Their bodies can take on various shapes, ranging from broad to narrow, fat or thin, and they have a wild, tangled mane of hair.
These creatures thrive on creating feelings of despair and tragedy in the lives of their victims. In order to achieve this goal, they use their impressive skills with illusion magic, which they have honed over many years. However, their illusory abilities are not the only thing that makes them a formidable foe. Green hags also possess an innate talent for manipulating other creatures into doing their bidding, masking their true intentions behind layers of deception.
Victims are often lured towards them by the sound of voices calling out for help, which the hags can mimic with ease. On the other hand, unwanted visitors are driven away, with the hags imitating the cries of fierce beasts. They take great pleasure in the failings and tragedies of other creatures, deriving joy from bringing people low and seeing hope turn into despair. This is not just limited to individuals, as they have been known to cause the downfall of whole nations.
Mirror hags are a type of hideous creature that can cause great misfortune to those who cross their path. These hunchbacked beings are covered in growths and lesions, and their misaligned joints cause their skin to press tightly against their bones. They have long white hairs sprouting from the blackest moles, noses resembling half-eaten carrots, and eyes that are mismatched in size, color, and alignment.
If someone recoils from a mirror hag's appearance, they are cursed with a reconfiguring curse that can cause them to suffer from a disfigured life. The mirror hag forces the person to confront their own superficiality by gazing into the hag's horrible face. Only when the person can see past the hag's deformities and appreciate the hag's inner beauty can they be released from the curse.
While some mirror hags do this for the betterment of all, most do it simply because it amuses them to cause pain. They generally only form covens with other mirror hags, but from time to time, a mirror hag will join a coven of mortal witches or green hags, bringing with them their unique abilities and knowledge of curses. Despite their fearsome reputation, mirror hags are fascinating creatures that have much to teach us about the importance of inner beauty and the dangers of superficiality.
Wood hags are fascinating creatures that reside in the rainforest's mist-draped half-light. They can be found in diverse environments, including fog-wreathed rainforests, steaming mountain-top jungles, and murky mangrove swamps. They are known to carve out lairs within great, rotting logs, build camouflaged treehouses, or dig rabbit-like warrens into forest floors. These creatures are short and powerfully-built, with pale skin that is mottled by patches of mold and clusters of tiny mushrooms. They resemble disheveled, ancient individuals, draped in mosses, lichens, and fern fronds, with clothing that crawls with slugs, grubs, and earthworms. Despite their eerie appearance, wood hags are friends to the denizens of the dark and damp areas in which they live, especially those others would call monsters. They are an integral part of their ecosystem, and their unique characteristics only add to the mystique of the rainforest's diverse inhabitants.
Night hags were once creatures of the Faewyld but their behavior was so loathsome that the fey banished them to the Outer Planes where they eventually turned into fiends. These creatures have spread across many planes and have distinct physical features. They are usually stout or medium built with dark blue or purple-black skin, white or light-colored eyes, and thin, curving horns. Despite their repulsive appearance, they can blend in with humanoid communities by either frequently swapping bodies or maintaining a single, hidden identity. Night hags have a fiendish desire to bring mortal souls closer to the horrors of Chaos or the depths of the Dark, and they will go to great lengths to do so. One of their methods is to corrupt the dreams of good people, compromising their ideals to eventually perform evil acts. Once a victim dies, the hag can harvest its soul for the soul trade. This is usually achieved through the use of two magic items that the hag must craft for themselves. These items are crucial for their nefarious plans, and if lost, the hag will go to great lengths to retrieve them. The first is a lustrous black gem that allows the night hag to become ethereal while it is in her possession. The second item works when a humanoid sufficiently corrupted dies as a result of a night hag’s nightly haunting, allowing the hag to catch the soul in a black sack made of stitched flesh. Such a bag can only hold one soul at a time, and only the night hag who crafted the bag can catch a soul with it.
Night hags can also intrude upon the dreams of sleeping humanoids by straddling them ethereally. During these nightly visitations, the ethereal hag fills the victim’s head with doubts and fears, hoping to trick them into performing evil acts in the waking world. The hag continues these nightly visitations until the victim finally expires in their sleep. Despite their loathsome behavior, night hags are intriguing creatures with a rich history.
Pesta hags are a terrifying sight to behold. They dress in tattered black garments and wield large, wooden rakes. Their pale skin is blackened at the nose and fingertips, and their open, weeping sores expose their flesh. As they travel, they leave a trail of disease in their wake. People who antagonize them are particularly susceptible to falling ill. However, it's not all doom and gloom with these hags. They are known to cure diseases for those who come bearing gifts or even on a whim.
Interestingly, the pesta hags' requested gifts are not always material. Depending on their mood, they may demand the grandest horse from a lord's stables, or they may accept a fresh pear or a scarf full of berries from a poor leper. Sometimes, they may even turn away both without explanation. This unpredictability only adds to their mysterious nature.
Occasionally, a pesta hag will board a ship, and inevitably, the crew will fall victim to disease. If the entire crew succumbs, the ghost ship will continue on its course, often with the body of a determined captain slumped over the wheel to keep the vessel on course. When the ship finally docks, the pesta hag will slip ashore amid the chaos, leaving the ship and its grisly cargo behind.
Red hags are an extremely interesting species of hags. They are known to be highly intelligent, cunning, and incredibly long-lived. In fact, they claim to have been around for much longer than the elves, and some even argue that they are as old as the dragons! Red hags are deeply connected to all elements of nature, and they prefer to make their homes in deep forests, caves, or by the coastlines. They are not necessarily horrid to look at and are considered to be quite beautiful in their own right.
One of the most intriguing things about red hags is that they practice blood sacrifices and perform ritualistic blood magic within their druidic circles. These circles are where they often serve as druids, using their innate knowledge of nature to perform incredible feats of magic. However, little is known about these mysterious creatures, and they prefer to keep to themselves. Perhaps they have secrets that they do not want to share with the outside world, or perhaps they simply enjoy their seclusion. Whatever the reason, red hags remain a fascinating and enigmatic species that we still have much to learn about.
Blood hags are known for their distinct physical characteristics. They have long, leathery arms with talons that can cruelly tear flesh apart. Their faces are misshapen masses of leathery flesh with bulbous noses that resemble gnarled knots on old oak trees. In addition to their terrifying appearance, a blood hag's hair is a morass of wriggling worms that are always thirsty for fresh blood. Due to their appearance and behavior, blood hags are often forced to skulk on the fringes of society. They prey on those who are weaker than them, demanding their blood to satisfy their insatiable thirst and their faces to satisfy their envy. It is believed that the first blood hags were born from a deep envy-fueled bloodlust that was common among red hags. Despite their terrifying nature, blood hags have been known to possess some unique abilities that make them a force to be reckoned with. For example, they are able to move quickly and silently, making it difficult for their prey to detect their presence. Some say that they can also control the minds of their victims and force them to do their bidding. Overall, blood hags are a fearsome and dangerous creature that should not be underestimated.
The sand hag is a particularly frightening creature that haunts desert ruins and forgotten oases. She is known for her malevolent glare, framed by lank gray hair, and her malicious grin, which is filled with shark teeth. Her drool trickles from her lips and she stands tall, at an impressive seven feet. Despite her apparent frailty and skeletally thin appearance, the sand hag is incredibly strong. She is often dressed in torn and tattered robes, which only add to her haunting appearance.
The sand hag has a deep hatred for things that are beautiful and peaceful, and will go to great lengths to lure travelers into an ambush using illusions and mimicry. She delights in tricking caravans into believing they have reached an oasis, only to kill all of the riding and pack animals so that the travelers are unable to flee. She relies on her sharp claws to slaughter animals and humanoids alike, draining the moisture from her victims and leaving behind only mummified remnants in postures of life, tied to a saddle or atop a guard tower. These gruesome displays serve as a warning to others, and have been known to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest travelers.
Sea hags are creatures of the ocean that inhabit underwater caves or tide-swept lighthouses. They are known for their destructive and fickle nature, ruling the seas with an iron fist. These creatures have unique physical characteristics, with pale fish-like skin covered in scales, glassy dead eyes, and seaweed-like hair. Despite their emaciated appearance, sea hags come in different sizes and shapes, ranging from tall to short or frail to large-boned. They have the ability to conceal their true form under an illusory veil, but they are cursed to forever appear in a disturbing and often haggard form.
Their powers are well-known to mortals, and they are often referred to as seers and weather witches. Mariners who placate these creatures are usually offered the hope of safe travel. However, sea hags are vengeful creatures who hate beauty in any form. They often seek to attack, deface, or corrupt it to cause fear and despair. When confronted with something beautiful, a sea hag will lash out and try to destroy it, turning it into a symbol of fear and sorrow.
It is important to note that a gift given freely by a sea hag carries no danger, but refusing it often does. They are creatures to be feared and respected, and their powers should not be taken lightly. In conclusion, sea hags are fascinating and complex creatures, with unique physical features and powers that make them a force to be reckoned with in the world's oceans.
The brine hag is a terrifying creature with a scaly, fish-like body that is slick with slime, seaweed, and crusts of barnacles. Its claws, spines, and eel-like tail make it a formidable opponent, and it is known to lurk in hidden grottoes, shipwrecks, and tidal caves along coastal regions. Despite its fearsome appearance, the brine hag is cunning and sometimes poses as a fisher or oyster digger under hoods or cloaks to prey on unsuspecting beachcombers, castaways, and fishermen.
It is believed that brine hags were once aquatic humanoids who underwent transformation by the primordial entities of the deeps, either willingly or unwillingly. Like their creators, brine hags have the ability to manipulate weaker-willed beings into wicked intrigues and delight in corrupting others. They revel in the despair of those who regret their actions due to the hag's influences, taking pleasure in the misery of their victims.
Despite their origins, brine hags have become a force to be reckoned with and are feared by many who live near the coast. Their ability to blend in with their surroundings and manipulate others makes them a formidable enemy, and those who cross their path do so at their own peril.
Floe hags, mythical creatures that dwell in the freezing cold seas, have been the subject of countless tales and legends. These beings are said to have long, lank hair, green-scaled skin, and elongated fingers, making them almost unrecognizable from any other creature in the sea. They are known to prey on hunters and fishermen who venture too close to their lairs, which could be found clinging to the underside of ice floes. It is said that the hag knocks on the ice to attract attention, luring unsuspecting victims into her grasp. Once a victim is captured, the hag stashes them in an extradimensional pocket stitched into the back of her sealskin parka. The captives are then taken to the hag's lair, never to be seen again. The fate of these captives has been the subject of much speculation among seafarers and scholars alike. Some believe that the hag freezes her captives into statues for companionship and decoration. Others speculate that she absorbs their life energy to stay young. In rare cases, captives have survived extended stays in the lair and transformed into new floe hags, leaving to claim their own victims. It is clear that the stories of the floe hags have been passed down for generations, and their legend continues to captivate and terrify seafarers to this day.
Aside from their impressive shape-shifting abilities, hags are also known for their magical prowess. They possess a variety of magical powers that they can use to alter their own form or to curse their enemies. It is said that their arrogance knows no bounds and they view their magic as a challenge to the power of the gods, whom they have been known to blaspheme at every opportunity.
Despite their fearsome reputation, hags are not without their weaknesses. They are vulnerable to certain types of magic and can be defeated by those with enough knowledge and skill. However, even in defeat, they remain formidable adversaries, and their cunning and guile make them a force to be reckoned with in any situation.
Annis hags are a fascinating and terrifying group of beings. They are the largest and most physically imposing of their kind, with hunched postures and bruise-blue or black skin. Their claws are like rusty blades, making them expert hunters and tormentors of the weak and fearful. Their cruelty is unmatched, and they leave tokens of it at the edges of forests and other areas they claim, provoking fear and distrust in nearby villages and settlements. This fear is not unfounded, as nothing is sweeter to an annis hag than making a once-vibrant community paralyzed with terror.
But their cruelty doesn't stop there. Annis hags are known to adopt the appearance of a kindly elder and approach children in remote places. They give these children tokens fashioned from their own teeth or nails, which grants them the ability to whisper with the hag. This is a dangerous bond, as the hag slowly convinces the child to do bad deeds, eventually corrupting them. The annis hag is a master manipulator, using her powers of persuasion to bend the will of even the most strong-willed individuals.
In addition to their manipulation of children, annis hags may also adopt a group of ogres, trolls, or other creatures. They rule these creatures through brute strength, insults, and superstition. This makes them a force to be reckoned with, capable of terrifying even the bravest of heroes.
So beware of the annis hag, for she is a truly fearsome creature. Her cunning and cruelty know no bounds, and she will stop at nothing to achieve her goals.
The barrow hag, a terrifying creature that dwells in graveyards and battlefields, is known for its grotesque appearance and insatiable appetite for the flesh of corpses. With sharp claws and a paralyzing tongue, it can easily overpower even the strongest of prey. What's more, these creatures possess powerful magic and are skilled at using it to accomplish their goals. They often keep several corpses in varying stages of decay, which they use to create loyal followers and attract other undead creatures such as ghouls and ghasts.
As the barrow hag grows in age and experience, its powers increase, and it becomes an accomplished necromancer. Its lair is often guarded by numerous undead, which makes it an even greater threat to anyone who dares to confront it. However, despite their fearsome reputation, barrow hags are not invincible. With the right combination of weapons and spells, they can be defeated, but it takes a brave soul to face them in battle.
Winter hags are notorious creatures that dwell in cold and snowy regions, particularly mountain peaks covered in snow. These creatures prefer to make their homes in wooden cottages or isolated mountainside caves. Travelers who wander the hags' territories often face the risk of freezing to death or being forced to seek refuge in the hags' hospitality. Winter hags are emaciated creatures with bluish skin that resembles that of a frozen corpse. The hags' hair is white, and their flesh is bruise-colored, surrounding pale eyes that stare into the void. The creatures carry a twisted gray wooden staff that augments their magic and can be ridden like a flying broom.
Winter hags are active during the winter season, using their ice and weather magic to wreak havoc on nearby settlements. These creatures take pleasure in seeing mortals freeze to death and rarely have room in their hearts for kin and community. Winter hags use their ability to manipulate weather to cause unbearable cold temperatures that instill despair in the villagers, turning them against each other. They are drawn to selfish actions inspired by deadly cold, such as murder or chopping down a dryad's grove for firewood. These actions make them more powerful and more dangerous.
Winter hags are known for posing as kindly wise people, selling herbal remedies and lucky charms. These remedies work for a while, but their efficacy fades, prompting the buyer to ask for something more permanent. The hag is always willing to help, but in return, they ask for a favor. The favor could be as simple as spreading gossip or playing a "harmless" prank on a neighbor. However, slowly but surely, things escalate until everyone in the village is at each other's throats, much to the hag's delight.
When a winter hag is near a recently slain foe, they may forgo attacking to feed on the corpse, which terrifies most witnesses. Winter hags are creatures that can cause significant harm and destruction, and it's best to avoid them at all costs.
Green hags are known to reside in areas such as dying forests, lonely swamps, and misty moors. They tend to make their homes in caves that are close enough to settlements so that they can prey on the lost and the lonely. Their bodies can take on various shapes, ranging from broad to narrow, fat or thin, and they have a wild, tangled mane of hair.
These creatures thrive on creating feelings of despair and tragedy in the lives of their victims. In order to achieve this goal, they use their impressive skills with illusion magic, which they have honed over many years. However, their illusory abilities are not the only thing that makes them a formidable foe. Green hags also possess an innate talent for manipulating other creatures into doing their bidding, masking their true intentions behind layers of deception.
Victims are often lured towards them by the sound of voices calling out for help, which the hags can mimic with ease. On the other hand, unwanted visitors are driven away, with the hags imitating the cries of fierce beasts. They take great pleasure in the failings and tragedies of other creatures, deriving joy from bringing people low and seeing hope turn into despair. This is not just limited to individuals, as they have been known to cause the downfall of whole nations.
Mirror hags are a type of hideous creature that can cause great misfortune to those who cross their path. These hunchbacked beings are covered in growths and lesions, and their misaligned joints cause their skin to press tightly against their bones. They have long white hairs sprouting from the blackest moles, noses resembling half-eaten carrots, and eyes that are mismatched in size, color, and alignment.
If someone recoils from a mirror hag's appearance, they are cursed with a reconfiguring curse that can cause them to suffer from a disfigured life. The mirror hag forces the person to confront their own superficiality by gazing into the hag's horrible face. Only when the person can see past the hag's deformities and appreciate the hag's inner beauty can they be released from the curse.
While some mirror hags do this for the betterment of all, most do it simply because it amuses them to cause pain. They generally only form covens with other mirror hags, but from time to time, a mirror hag will join a coven of mortal witches or green hags, bringing with them their unique abilities and knowledge of curses. Despite their fearsome reputation, mirror hags are fascinating creatures that have much to teach us about the importance of inner beauty and the dangers of superficiality.
Wood hags are fascinating creatures that reside in the rainforest's mist-draped half-light. They can be found in diverse environments, including fog-wreathed rainforests, steaming mountain-top jungles, and murky mangrove swamps. They are known to carve out lairs within great, rotting logs, build camouflaged treehouses, or dig rabbit-like warrens into forest floors. These creatures are short and powerfully-built, with pale skin that is mottled by patches of mold and clusters of tiny mushrooms. They resemble disheveled, ancient individuals, draped in mosses, lichens, and fern fronds, with clothing that crawls with slugs, grubs, and earthworms. Despite their eerie appearance, wood hags are friends to the denizens of the dark and damp areas in which they live, especially those others would call monsters. They are an integral part of their ecosystem, and their unique characteristics only add to the mystique of the rainforest's diverse inhabitants.
Night hags were once creatures of the Faewyld but their behavior was so loathsome that the fey banished them to the Outer Planes where they eventually turned into fiends. These creatures have spread across many planes and have distinct physical features. They are usually stout or medium built with dark blue or purple-black skin, white or light-colored eyes, and thin, curving horns. Despite their repulsive appearance, they can blend in with humanoid communities by either frequently swapping bodies or maintaining a single, hidden identity. Night hags have a fiendish desire to bring mortal souls closer to the horrors of Chaos or the depths of the Dark, and they will go to great lengths to do so. One of their methods is to corrupt the dreams of good people, compromising their ideals to eventually perform evil acts. Once a victim dies, the hag can harvest its soul for the soul trade. This is usually achieved through the use of two magic items that the hag must craft for themselves. These items are crucial for their nefarious plans, and if lost, the hag will go to great lengths to retrieve them. The first is a lustrous black gem that allows the night hag to become ethereal while it is in her possession. The second item works when a humanoid sufficiently corrupted dies as a result of a night hag’s nightly haunting, allowing the hag to catch the soul in a black sack made of stitched flesh. Such a bag can only hold one soul at a time, and only the night hag who crafted the bag can catch a soul with it.
Night hags can also intrude upon the dreams of sleeping humanoids by straddling them ethereally. During these nightly visitations, the ethereal hag fills the victim’s head with doubts and fears, hoping to trick them into performing evil acts in the waking world. The hag continues these nightly visitations until the victim finally expires in their sleep. Despite their loathsome behavior, night hags are intriguing creatures with a rich history.
Pesta hags are a terrifying sight to behold. They dress in tattered black garments and wield large, wooden rakes. Their pale skin is blackened at the nose and fingertips, and their open, weeping sores expose their flesh. As they travel, they leave a trail of disease in their wake. People who antagonize them are particularly susceptible to falling ill. However, it's not all doom and gloom with these hags. They are known to cure diseases for those who come bearing gifts or even on a whim.
Interestingly, the pesta hags' requested gifts are not always material. Depending on their mood, they may demand the grandest horse from a lord's stables, or they may accept a fresh pear or a scarf full of berries from a poor leper. Sometimes, they may even turn away both without explanation. This unpredictability only adds to their mysterious nature.
Occasionally, a pesta hag will board a ship, and inevitably, the crew will fall victim to disease. If the entire crew succumbs, the ghost ship will continue on its course, often with the body of a determined captain slumped over the wheel to keep the vessel on course. When the ship finally docks, the pesta hag will slip ashore amid the chaos, leaving the ship and its grisly cargo behind.
Red hags are an extremely interesting species of hags. They are known to be highly intelligent, cunning, and incredibly long-lived. In fact, they claim to have been around for much longer than the elves, and some even argue that they are as old as the dragons! Red hags are deeply connected to all elements of nature, and they prefer to make their homes in deep forests, caves, or by the coastlines. They are not necessarily horrid to look at and are considered to be quite beautiful in their own right.
One of the most intriguing things about red hags is that they practice blood sacrifices and perform ritualistic blood magic within their druidic circles. These circles are where they often serve as druids, using their innate knowledge of nature to perform incredible feats of magic. However, little is known about these mysterious creatures, and they prefer to keep to themselves. Perhaps they have secrets that they do not want to share with the outside world, or perhaps they simply enjoy their seclusion. Whatever the reason, red hags remain a fascinating and enigmatic species that we still have much to learn about.
Blood hags are known for their distinct physical characteristics. They have long, leathery arms with talons that can cruelly tear flesh apart. Their faces are misshapen masses of leathery flesh with bulbous noses that resemble gnarled knots on old oak trees. In addition to their terrifying appearance, a blood hag's hair is a morass of wriggling worms that are always thirsty for fresh blood. Due to their appearance and behavior, blood hags are often forced to skulk on the fringes of society. They prey on those who are weaker than them, demanding their blood to satisfy their insatiable thirst and their faces to satisfy their envy. It is believed that the first blood hags were born from a deep envy-fueled bloodlust that was common among red hags. Despite their terrifying nature, blood hags have been known to possess some unique abilities that make them a force to be reckoned with. For example, they are able to move quickly and silently, making it difficult for their prey to detect their presence. Some say that they can also control the minds of their victims and force them to do their bidding. Overall, blood hags are a fearsome and dangerous creature that should not be underestimated.
The sand hag is a particularly frightening creature that haunts desert ruins and forgotten oases. She is known for her malevolent glare, framed by lank gray hair, and her malicious grin, which is filled with shark teeth. Her drool trickles from her lips and she stands tall, at an impressive seven feet. Despite her apparent frailty and skeletally thin appearance, the sand hag is incredibly strong. She is often dressed in torn and tattered robes, which only add to her haunting appearance.
The sand hag has a deep hatred for things that are beautiful and peaceful, and will go to great lengths to lure travelers into an ambush using illusions and mimicry. She delights in tricking caravans into believing they have reached an oasis, only to kill all of the riding and pack animals so that the travelers are unable to flee. She relies on her sharp claws to slaughter animals and humanoids alike, draining the moisture from her victims and leaving behind only mummified remnants in postures of life, tied to a saddle or atop a guard tower. These gruesome displays serve as a warning to others, and have been known to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest travelers.
Sea hags are creatures of the ocean that inhabit underwater caves or tide-swept lighthouses. They are known for their destructive and fickle nature, ruling the seas with an iron fist. These creatures have unique physical characteristics, with pale fish-like skin covered in scales, glassy dead eyes, and seaweed-like hair. Despite their emaciated appearance, sea hags come in different sizes and shapes, ranging from tall to short or frail to large-boned. They have the ability to conceal their true form under an illusory veil, but they are cursed to forever appear in a disturbing and often haggard form.
Their powers are well-known to mortals, and they are often referred to as seers and weather witches. Mariners who placate these creatures are usually offered the hope of safe travel. However, sea hags are vengeful creatures who hate beauty in any form. They often seek to attack, deface, or corrupt it to cause fear and despair. When confronted with something beautiful, a sea hag will lash out and try to destroy it, turning it into a symbol of fear and sorrow.
It is important to note that a gift given freely by a sea hag carries no danger, but refusing it often does. They are creatures to be feared and respected, and their powers should not be taken lightly. In conclusion, sea hags are fascinating and complex creatures, with unique physical features and powers that make them a force to be reckoned with in the world's oceans.
The brine hag is a terrifying creature with a scaly, fish-like body that is slick with slime, seaweed, and crusts of barnacles. Its claws, spines, and eel-like tail make it a formidable opponent, and it is known to lurk in hidden grottoes, shipwrecks, and tidal caves along coastal regions. Despite its fearsome appearance, the brine hag is cunning and sometimes poses as a fisher or oyster digger under hoods or cloaks to prey on unsuspecting beachcombers, castaways, and fishermen.
It is believed that brine hags were once aquatic humanoids who underwent transformation by the primordial entities of the deeps, either willingly or unwillingly. Like their creators, brine hags have the ability to manipulate weaker-willed beings into wicked intrigues and delight in corrupting others. They revel in the despair of those who regret their actions due to the hag's influences, taking pleasure in the misery of their victims.
Despite their origins, brine hags have become a force to be reckoned with and are feared by many who live near the coast. Their ability to blend in with their surroundings and manipulate others makes them a formidable enemy, and those who cross their path do so at their own peril.
Floe hags, mythical creatures that dwell in the freezing cold seas, have been the subject of countless tales and legends. These beings are said to have long, lank hair, green-scaled skin, and elongated fingers, making them almost unrecognizable from any other creature in the sea. They are known to prey on hunters and fishermen who venture too close to their lairs, which could be found clinging to the underside of ice floes. It is said that the hag knocks on the ice to attract attention, luring unsuspecting victims into her grasp. Once a victim is captured, the hag stashes them in an extradimensional pocket stitched into the back of her sealskin parka. The captives are then taken to the hag's lair, never to be seen again. The fate of these captives has been the subject of much speculation among seafarers and scholars alike. Some believe that the hag freezes her captives into statues for companionship and decoration. Others speculate that she absorbs their life energy to stay young. In rare cases, captives have survived extended stays in the lair and transformed into new floe hags, leaving to claim their own victims. It is clear that the stories of the floe hags have been passed down for generations, and their legend continues to captivate and terrify seafarers to this day.
Genetics and Reproduction
Hags, being fey creatures, are driven by an instinct to adopt mortal children and develop an over-protective and loving relationship with them. They do this in an attempt to pass on their powers to their children as hexbloods, while influencing them to exhibit cruel and selfish behavior. This behavior makes their future transformation into hags through a ritual easier. Moreover, hags enforce rigid and arbitrary rules, which they expect their children to follow. In fact, they often go as far as killing poorly behaved children. Interestingly, mortal mothers sometimes use the threat of a hag's visit to frighten their children into obedience.
Hexbloods, on the other hand, are individuals who possess a unique blend of fey energy and witchcraft. They exhibit various hag-like traits, including the ability to see in the dark and the use of magical methods to beguile the senses. Hags create hexbloods, and imbue them with magical powers that reflect the hag's abilities. In addition, they have the power to transform a hexblood into a new hag through a lengthy ritual that requires the consent of both parties.
It is important to note that a hag will spend as long as necessary to convince and manipulate a hexblood into consenting to the ritual, resulting in the emergence of a new hag. Overall, hags and hexbloods are intriguing creatures with complex relationships that require a deeper understanding to appreciate their unique characteristics and behaviors.
Hexbloods, on the other hand, are individuals who possess a unique blend of fey energy and witchcraft. They exhibit various hag-like traits, including the ability to see in the dark and the use of magical methods to beguile the senses. Hags create hexbloods, and imbue them with magical powers that reflect the hag's abilities. In addition, they have the power to transform a hexblood into a new hag through a lengthy ritual that requires the consent of both parties.
It is important to note that a hag will spend as long as necessary to convince and manipulate a hexblood into consenting to the ritual, resulting in the emergence of a new hag. Overall, hags and hexbloods are intriguing creatures with complex relationships that require a deeper understanding to appreciate their unique characteristics and behaviors.
Growth Rate & Stages
Hags are mystical beings that possess a lifespan that surpasses even that of dragons and elves, making them virtually immortal. The oldest, wisest, and most powerful hags are revered by other hags and are nearly as powerful as some of the archfey.
Ecology and Habitats
Hags are known to dwell in various environments such as dark and twisted woods, bleak moors, storm-lashed seacoasts, and gloomy swamps. The landscape surrounding a hag's lair is often reflective of the creature's noxiousness and can be deadly to trespassers. The twisted trees attack passersby, while vines snare and drag off creatures one at a time. Moreover, foul stinking fogs turn the air into poison, concealing pools of quicksand and sinkholes that can consume unwary wanderers. Each type of hag prefers a specific environment, and they can be found in unusual terrain, perhaps while traveling or as part of a coven. The older the hag, the more likely they are to take up permanent residence in unfriendly terrain, as their long-range plans sometimes require spending decades or years in a certain area before returning home.
Hags have a proclivity for orchestration of others' downfall and often establish their homes near humanoid settlements, which provide them with a ready supply of creatures to tantalize and torment. If a hag spends an extended period in close proximity to a human settlement, they often deplete the community of kindness and selflessness as they succumb to the hag and their selfish plans. The mood of the town becomes unwelcoming, grim, moody, or outright hostile toward newcomers and travelers. Even after a hag has done their worst in such a place, they maintain leverage over the victims by holding out the prospect that someday they will undo the curses that have been lain on them. For that reason, the local leaders won't allow any outsiders to act against her, which includes sabotaging adventurers who might decide to confront her.
Some hags' lairs stand on crossings between the material world and their native faerie realm. No matter what form it takes, a hag's home is a manifestation of their twisted existence. It is ugly, eerie, or unnerving in some way, and often incorporates some aspect of decay, such as a dead tree, a ruined tower, or a menacing cave entrance that resembles a skull. Whether naturally or by manufactured means, the lair is well defended from intrusion. It might be reachable only by a steep mountain path, or it might be surrounded by a fence the hag built out of posts capped with magically warded skulls. Often, a lair reflects the outlook of its primary inhabitant — a murderous hag's home might be crafted to look like a coffin or a mausoleum, and that of a gluttonous one might look like a tavern or a gingerbread house. Sea hags often establish their lairs inside the hulls of wrecked or abandoned ships because such places are convenient for them.
Many hags settle in places where the barriers between the mortal world and the Faewyld are thin, making it easy for them to interact and bargain with creatures of both realms. Other popular choices are a place where the ambient energy augments certain kinds of magic, a site related to death such as a burial ground, and within a ring of fallen standing stones that still resonate with ancient power. In order to facilitate bargaining with mortals, the home must be near enough to a populated area that it attracts occasional visitors but not so close that a community would see the hag's presence as a threat and try to defeat them or drive them off.
A hag's home is cluttered with mundane items, caged creatures, oddities, objects that hint of a magical purpose, preserved specimens, scraps of lore, and curiosities that have a supernatural origin but aren't inherently magical. The hag always has an escape plan, in case ambitious do-gooders try to turn their home into a final resting place. If the hag is outmatched, or wants to vacate their lair quickly for some other reason, the hag uses a mix of innate spellcasting, rare magic, guile, and the assistance of minions to get away. Most hags have three plans prepared: one for general threats and two others for specific likely scenarios, such as "They've set the house on fire" or "A necromancer with undead is attacking." If a hag is forced to resort to such measures, they immediately begin to plot retaliation against those that caused them to flee. Like a vampire or a dragon, a hag has a long life over which to exact vengeance, and no dish of revenge is sweeter than one served cold and to the next three generations of an enemy's family.
Much of a hag's treasure is strewn among all the clutter in their lair, making it difficult for intruders to quickly identify all the items that have use or value. But the hag knows what and where everything is. Every hag is infallible when it comes to keeping track of treasures and other possessions. Their organization and labeling, if such a system exists, is designed to foil thieves and serve as a final, vexing puzzle for anyone who tries to make use of an item without consent.
Hags have a proclivity for orchestration of others' downfall and often establish their homes near humanoid settlements, which provide them with a ready supply of creatures to tantalize and torment. If a hag spends an extended period in close proximity to a human settlement, they often deplete the community of kindness and selflessness as they succumb to the hag and their selfish plans. The mood of the town becomes unwelcoming, grim, moody, or outright hostile toward newcomers and travelers. Even after a hag has done their worst in such a place, they maintain leverage over the victims by holding out the prospect that someday they will undo the curses that have been lain on them. For that reason, the local leaders won't allow any outsiders to act against her, which includes sabotaging adventurers who might decide to confront her.
Some hags' lairs stand on crossings between the material world and their native faerie realm. No matter what form it takes, a hag's home is a manifestation of their twisted existence. It is ugly, eerie, or unnerving in some way, and often incorporates some aspect of decay, such as a dead tree, a ruined tower, or a menacing cave entrance that resembles a skull. Whether naturally or by manufactured means, the lair is well defended from intrusion. It might be reachable only by a steep mountain path, or it might be surrounded by a fence the hag built out of posts capped with magically warded skulls. Often, a lair reflects the outlook of its primary inhabitant — a murderous hag's home might be crafted to look like a coffin or a mausoleum, and that of a gluttonous one might look like a tavern or a gingerbread house. Sea hags often establish their lairs inside the hulls of wrecked or abandoned ships because such places are convenient for them.
Many hags settle in places where the barriers between the mortal world and the Faewyld are thin, making it easy for them to interact and bargain with creatures of both realms. Other popular choices are a place where the ambient energy augments certain kinds of magic, a site related to death such as a burial ground, and within a ring of fallen standing stones that still resonate with ancient power. In order to facilitate bargaining with mortals, the home must be near enough to a populated area that it attracts occasional visitors but not so close that a community would see the hag's presence as a threat and try to defeat them or drive them off.
A hag's home is cluttered with mundane items, caged creatures, oddities, objects that hint of a magical purpose, preserved specimens, scraps of lore, and curiosities that have a supernatural origin but aren't inherently magical. The hag always has an escape plan, in case ambitious do-gooders try to turn their home into a final resting place. If the hag is outmatched, or wants to vacate their lair quickly for some other reason, the hag uses a mix of innate spellcasting, rare magic, guile, and the assistance of minions to get away. Most hags have three plans prepared: one for general threats and two others for specific likely scenarios, such as "They've set the house on fire" or "A necromancer with undead is attacking." If a hag is forced to resort to such measures, they immediately begin to plot retaliation against those that caused them to flee. Like a vampire or a dragon, a hag has a long life over which to exact vengeance, and no dish of revenge is sweeter than one served cold and to the next three generations of an enemy's family.
Much of a hag's treasure is strewn among all the clutter in their lair, making it difficult for intruders to quickly identify all the items that have use or value. But the hag knows what and where everything is. Every hag is infallible when it comes to keeping track of treasures and other possessions. Their organization and labeling, if such a system exists, is designed to foil thieves and serve as a final, vexing puzzle for anyone who tries to make use of an item without consent.
Behaviour
Hags are among the most feared and dangerous creatures in the realm. They are known to take pleasure in corrupting others by manipulating their desires and vices. By making sinister bargains with those who seek their aid, they prey on the weaknesses of mortals and manipulate them for their own gain. These mysterious and unfathomable beings act unpredictably, leaving those with even a modicum of wisdom to fear them. Hags are able to understand mortal desires and vices, and use this knowledge to their advantage by preying on these qualities. They were once mortals themselves, but became so corrupted by some desire or vice that it changed them forever.
Hags are like cantankerous grandparents who no longer care what anyone thinks and enjoy meddling with other people’s lives. Once a hag agrees to help someone, the bargain always includes a price to be paid, but it also involves a hidden plan that sets the mortal up to fail or a way for the hag to gain leverage over them. In the event that a hag’s life is threatened, they will resort to dangerous magic to stay alive.
It is important to remember that hags hate being in debt to someone who has done them a favor spontaneously, outside of any bargain. As a result, they will return favors unexpectedly to such individuals. It is wise to be cautious when dealing with hags, as their true motives are often shrouded in mystery and their actions are rarely straightforward.
Hags are like cantankerous grandparents who no longer care what anyone thinks and enjoy meddling with other people’s lives. Once a hag agrees to help someone, the bargain always includes a price to be paid, but it also involves a hidden plan that sets the mortal up to fail or a way for the hag to gain leverage over them. In the event that a hag’s life is threatened, they will resort to dangerous magic to stay alive.
It is important to remember that hags hate being in debt to someone who has done them a favor spontaneously, outside of any bargain. As a result, they will return favors unexpectedly to such individuals. It is wise to be cautious when dealing with hags, as their true motives are often shrouded in mystery and their actions are rarely straightforward.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Hags are known to be one of the most independent creatures in the world. They do not like living with other hags, but they do recognize themselves as members of a dark family. Although hags have a mutual dislike for each other, they still share knowledge and secrets with each other. This way, they can be informed of any worldly events or possible dangers. Hags living in remote areas communicate with other hags through magical communication, personal visits, or even through mundane things such as birds. In most cases, these relationships are the closest that hags come to having friends. Even if a hag is living in an isolated place, they are aware of their neighboring hags and their activities.
Hags are not to be trifled with. If a hag is attacked or killed, other hags are likely to hear about it. If the victim was friendly with other hags, the ones responsible for their death might find themselves the target of retaliation. On the other hand, if the victim was unpopular or if other hags were indebted to them (and thus are happy to see them go), the killers might receive relatively cordial treatment from those other hags.
Every hag has a particular status relative to others of her kind and to hags of all sorts, based on age, abilities, influence, alliances, and experience, and is aware of their place (though not necessarily satisfied with it). There are a few that sit at the top of the hierarchy and all other hags vie for prominence in a chaotic pecking order that no mortal can truly figure out. A hag that associates with an older hag has a higher status than a similarly powerful hag without such a connection, and a young hag born of an elder begins existence already benefiting from a greater measure of respect and status.
Hags are not to be trifled with. If a hag is attacked or killed, other hags are likely to hear about it. If the victim was friendly with other hags, the ones responsible for their death might find themselves the target of retaliation. On the other hand, if the victim was unpopular or if other hags were indebted to them (and thus are happy to see them go), the killers might receive relatively cordial treatment from those other hags.
Every hag has a particular status relative to others of her kind and to hags of all sorts, based on age, abilities, influence, alliances, and experience, and is aware of their place (though not necessarily satisfied with it). There are a few that sit at the top of the hierarchy and all other hags vie for prominence in a chaotic pecking order that no mortal can truly figure out. A hag that associates with an older hag has a higher status than a similarly powerful hag without such a connection, and a young hag born of an elder begins existence already benefiting from a greater measure of respect and status.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
When encountering hag treasures, it is important to exercise caution and suspicion, rather than greedily snatching them up. Rushing in without understanding what lies within or the proper method for opening the container or item can have dire consequences. One might encounter escaping contents or dangerous traps that could cause harm or even be lethal. It is important to note that hags always seem to have a potion or amulet that gives them an advantage. Additionally, when hags are unlucky, they tend to aim to make their enemies suffer, rather than killing them outright. Therefore, it is crucial to be patient and well-prepared before approaching any hag treasure, as it could be a dangerous endeavor.
Facial characteristics
The individuals in question possess a notably lengthy mane of hair that appears to be in a state of disrepair, with frayed ends and a lack of grooming. Their faces, which are quite withered, are surrounded by this voluminous hair. In addition, their skin is marked by a number of blemishes, such as horrid moles and warts, which are scattered across their blotchy complexion.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
In the practice of witchcraft, hags are known to give their hexblood offspring whimsical names with a dark twist. These names are meant to reflect the hag's own twisted nature, and they are carried by the hexblood throughout their time as such. However, upon gaining full hag powers, the hexblood is allowed to choose their own name. This new name may or may not have any connection to their original hexblood name. It is also worth noting that some hags use different names depending on their guise, but they still have a strong preference for their original name.
To add more detail, it is believed that the process of naming a hexblood is a sacred ritual among hags. The name given to the hexblood is said to hold great power and influence over their life. It is also believed that hags are able to predict the future of a hexblood based on the name they give them. This is why hags often choose names with dark and ominous connotations, as they believe that it will give their hexblood offspring a powerful and foreboding presence.
Additionally, the act of choosing a new name upon gaining full hag powers is seen as a rite of passage among hags. It is a symbol of the hexblood's growth and transformation into a full-fledged hag. Some hags choose names that reflect their new powers or their personality, while others choose names that have a deeper meaning to them. This decision is often made after much contemplation and soul-searching.
Overall, the naming practices of hags are steeped in tradition and symbolism. While the names themselves may seem whimsical or dark, they hold great significance to the hags who give them and the hexbloods who carry them.
To add more detail, it is believed that the process of naming a hexblood is a sacred ritual among hags. The name given to the hexblood is said to hold great power and influence over their life. It is also believed that hags are able to predict the future of a hexblood based on the name they give them. This is why hags often choose names with dark and ominous connotations, as they believe that it will give their hexblood offspring a powerful and foreboding presence.
Additionally, the act of choosing a new name upon gaining full hag powers is seen as a rite of passage among hags. It is a symbol of the hexblood's growth and transformation into a full-fledged hag. Some hags choose names that reflect their new powers or their personality, while others choose names that have a deeper meaning to them. This decision is often made after much contemplation and soul-searching.
Overall, the naming practices of hags are steeped in tradition and symbolism. While the names themselves may seem whimsical or dark, they hold great significance to the hags who give them and the hexbloods who carry them.
Major Organizations
Hags are creatures that prefer solitude and have little regard for others. They love to be alone, except for the company of creatures under their control or those that they can bargain with. Despite their preference for isolation, hags are known to ally with each other to form magical covens. When a group of hags shares a common goal or seeks greater power, they come together, albeit reluctantly, to form a coven. Being part of a coven gives each hag more magic and spellcasting ability, which allows them to achieve more complicated schemes.
If a member of a coven is killed, the surviving members will try to recruit a replacement to keep the group from dissolving. Prospective members must commit cruel acts to impress the remaining coven members. An exceptionally talented mortal sorcerer, warlock, or wizard may get an invitation to join a coven or may be allowed to compete for a vacancy. Although this arrangement is potentially dangerous for the mortal, a pair of hags might agree to it if their needs are served.
Some covens have specific purposes, such as defeating a champion of good, serving as oracles for the delivery of baleful prophecies, or corrupting a pristine wilderness. In such cases, the coven focuses its magic on a theme related to that purpose, making them more powerful and dangerous. Although living and working with other hags can be inconvenient and result in bickering, the benefits of being part of a coven outweigh the drawbacks.
If a member of a coven is killed, the surviving members will try to recruit a replacement to keep the group from dissolving. Prospective members must commit cruel acts to impress the remaining coven members. An exceptionally talented mortal sorcerer, warlock, or wizard may get an invitation to join a coven or may be allowed to compete for a vacancy. Although this arrangement is potentially dangerous for the mortal, a pair of hags might agree to it if their needs are served.
Some covens have specific purposes, such as defeating a champion of good, serving as oracles for the delivery of baleful prophecies, or corrupting a pristine wilderness. In such cases, the coven focuses its magic on a theme related to that purpose, making them more powerful and dangerous. Although living and working with other hags can be inconvenient and result in bickering, the benefits of being part of a coven outweigh the drawbacks.
Beauty Ideals
Hags, which are mythical creatures known for their ugliness, have a strange behavior towards attractive beings. It is believed that they are repulsed by their beauty and have been known to take drastic actions to "help" them by disfiguring or transforming them. This characteristic of hags is often associated with envy and jealousy towards those who possess physical attractiveness. It is also said that hags have the ability to shape-shift into different forms, which they use to deceive and lure their victims.
Common Etiquette Rules
Hags possess unique abilities to detect, appreciate, and evaluate magical spells, items, or individuals with extraordinary magical talent. They utilize all their senses, including smell, touch, taste, and hearing, to thoroughly examine the offerings presented to them. They have an eye for rare and uncommon items and are not afraid to express their interest. When they encounter something they do not have or cannot think of a use for, they highly value it. If visitors come bearing gifts or bribes that appeal to the hag's taste, they are more likely to get a good bargain or avoid the hag's wrath when the real price is revealed.
Hags adhere to an ancient code of conduct that governs their interactions with each other. They announce their presence before entering the territory of another hag, bring gifts when visiting another hag's dwelling, and honor oaths given to other hags (so long as the oath is not given with crossed fingers). However, this code of conduct does not apply to all creatures, and hags may find it amusing to toy with the uninitiated before teaching them a harsh lesson.
It is common knowledge that hags are not to be trifled with, especially for those who seek their help or come across their path. However, those who understand their ways and come bearing gifts and respect may find themselves in a better position to negotiate with these mysterious and powerful beings.
Hags adhere to an ancient code of conduct that governs their interactions with each other. They announce their presence before entering the territory of another hag, bring gifts when visiting another hag's dwelling, and honor oaths given to other hags (so long as the oath is not given with crossed fingers). However, this code of conduct does not apply to all creatures, and hags may find it amusing to toy with the uninitiated before teaching them a harsh lesson.
It is common knowledge that hags are not to be trifled with, especially for those who seek their help or come across their path. However, those who understand their ways and come bearing gifts and respect may find themselves in a better position to negotiate with these mysterious and powerful beings.
Common Dress Code
Hags are known for their fascination with the macabre, and they often adorn their clothing with dead things such as bones, bits of flesh, and filth. Their true form may be considered hideous by some, yet hags care little about their appearance and willfully pick at sores, wear skins and bones as decoration, and even rub refuse and dirt into their hair and clothing.
However, when hags create illusory personas as humanoids, they take on a completely different approach. They meticulously craft these personas to be as beautiful and hygienic as possible, as if to compensate for their true form. Despite the fact that they may wear simple, tattered clothing, they still make sure to keep it clean and in good condition. This contrast between their true form and illusory personas is striking, and it serves to highlight the complexity of hags' personalities and their ability to manipulate their surroundings to their advantage.
However, when hags create illusory personas as humanoids, they take on a completely different approach. They meticulously craft these personas to be as beautiful and hygienic as possible, as if to compensate for their true form. Despite the fact that they may wear simple, tattered clothing, they still make sure to keep it clean and in good condition. This contrast between their true form and illusory personas is striking, and it serves to highlight the complexity of hags' personalities and their ability to manipulate their surroundings to their advantage.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Hags, with their twisted humanoid forms that reflect the evil in their hearts, are considered to be one of the most cruel beings across the multiverse. These creatures are no longer mortal, having been transformed by fey magic and their own selfish desires and vices. Hags take pleasure in seeing the innocent and kind brought low, and they collect and remember secret knowledge to exploit in some way. The depths of their knowledge extends far beyond what we can imagine, and over the course of their endless lifetime, hags discover or create many unusual ways to use magic that even the most seasoned planar travelers have yet to see. Their weird magic comes in various forms and has different means of activation. For instance, some hags may use spoken words to activate their magic, while others may rely on their innate abilities to cast spells.
It is also worth mentioning that hags embrace the Rule of Three, a belief that good or evil magic returns upon its source threefold, and that the casting of many spells requires the same words chanted three times. Planar travelers recognize that many realms and layers of the multiverse are configured in multiples of three. Hags may have learned of this planar-based superstition and adapted it to their own uses, or claim to have invented the concept. Regardless of the origin, this belief holds great importance for hags and greatly influences the way they use their magic.
It is also worth mentioning that hags embrace the Rule of Three, a belief that good or evil magic returns upon its source threefold, and that the casting of many spells requires the same words chanted three times. Planar travelers recognize that many realms and layers of the multiverse are configured in multiples of three. Hags may have learned of this planar-based superstition and adapted it to their own uses, or claim to have invented the concept. Regardless of the origin, this belief holds great importance for hags and greatly influences the way they use their magic.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
When people are in dire need of assistance, they often turn to hags for help, despite the inherent danger in doing so. Hags rarely seek out potential clients themselves, as they know that those who come to them hold less power in the bargain. Visitors to a hag's lair are likely to have approached in secret, fearful of causing a disturbance in the town and eager to return home quickly before anyone realizes they are missing. This puts the hag in a position of power, allowing them to dictate the terms of the bargain, and often presenting an offer that appears reasonable, yet has a tempting loophole or two that can be exploited. Even when a bargain turns sour for a mortal, word of the hag's services still spreads, and new customers continue to seek them out. Some believe they can outsmart the hag, while others think their needs are simple and safe from perversion, or that previous victims were simply too greedy in their proposals.
While it is arguable that there is never a good time to make deals with hags, mortals are more likely to come out unscathed if they offer something that the hag needs or desires. Hags are fascinated by creatures of power and enjoy gossip about other hags or influential beings such as dragons, demons, genies, and certain mortals. However, a hag's generosity or willingness to accept a simple task as payment is no guarantee that the deal will be mutually beneficial. In fact, it is often the case that the hag is pursuing a hidden agenda, even when the proposal seems fair.
Hags of great age and renown may know unique rituals that can temporarily or permanently alter or transform a creature, bring back the dead for a limited time, rewrite memories, or siphon emotions. Even a hag of lower status is likely to have strange items that do not follow the normal rules of magic and are impossible to duplicate or replace. These items are carefully guarded by the hag, who takes great pleasure in the macabre nature of their hobbies. If a hag allows another creature to use one of these items as part of a bargain, they must expect a significant return on their investment.
So, while dealing with a hag is always risky, a mortal may stand a better chance of success if they approach them with something of value, whether it be news of a powerful creature or an object that piques the hag's interest.
While it is arguable that there is never a good time to make deals with hags, mortals are more likely to come out unscathed if they offer something that the hag needs or desires. Hags are fascinated by creatures of power and enjoy gossip about other hags or influential beings such as dragons, demons, genies, and certain mortals. However, a hag's generosity or willingness to accept a simple task as payment is no guarantee that the deal will be mutually beneficial. In fact, it is often the case that the hag is pursuing a hidden agenda, even when the proposal seems fair.
Hags of great age and renown may know unique rituals that can temporarily or permanently alter or transform a creature, bring back the dead for a limited time, rewrite memories, or siphon emotions. Even a hag of lower status is likely to have strange items that do not follow the normal rules of magic and are impossible to duplicate or replace. These items are carefully guarded by the hag, who takes great pleasure in the macabre nature of their hobbies. If a hag allows another creature to use one of these items as part of a bargain, they must expect a significant return on their investment.
So, while dealing with a hag is always risky, a mortal may stand a better chance of success if they approach them with something of value, whether it be news of a powerful creature or an object that piques the hag's interest.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Hags are fascinating creatures with vast knowledge and impressive magical abilities. Although some of the oldest hags are accepted into the Seelie and Unseelie courts as courtiers, most of them prefer to be left alone to pursue their own schemes without being constrained by the whims of other fey creatures. When hags enter into deals with other creatures of the Faewyld, they approach the situation with utmost respect, as they are well aware that these creatures are more powerful than common humanoids and can be dangerous if angered by a deal gone bad.
Despite their solitary nature, hags sometimes feel the need for companionship. In fact, they take delight in convincing mortals to bind themselves to service as minions. Thanks to their weird magic, hags can have almost any type of creature serving them – fey, giants, undead, and more. Even creatures that are much more powerful than the hag might be under their command, working off the debt of a bargain for themselves or others. As favors beget favors, a hag might even call upon a blood debt from a dragon, a noble, or another hag by speaking a magic word under duress. This gives them the ability to wield magical, political, or physical power in a way they can’t do by themselves.
Over time, minions who serve a hag near her lair become twisted versions of their former selves, although they are still recognizable as what they once were. The hag might use her magic to alter them, making them tireless, resistant to fire, able to transform into a flock of crows, or able to teleport through shadows – whatever she thinks will best serve her interests and defend her.
Despite their solitary nature, hags sometimes feel the need for companionship. In fact, they take delight in convincing mortals to bind themselves to service as minions. Thanks to their weird magic, hags can have almost any type of creature serving them – fey, giants, undead, and more. Even creatures that are much more powerful than the hag might be under their command, working off the debt of a bargain for themselves or others. As favors beget favors, a hag might even call upon a blood debt from a dragon, a noble, or another hag by speaking a magic word under duress. This gives them the ability to wield magical, political, or physical power in a way they can’t do by themselves.
Over time, minions who serve a hag near her lair become twisted versions of their former selves, although they are still recognizable as what they once were. The hag might use her magic to alter them, making them tireless, resistant to fire, able to transform into a flock of crows, or able to teleport through shadows – whatever she thinks will best serve her interests and defend her.
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Author's Notes
This article mentions several types of hags not found in the Monster Manual of Dungeons & Dragons, 5th Edition published by Wizards of the Coast, but still uses some information from that book. A number of these hags came from other Wizard's of the Coast sources, Mordenkainen Presents: Monsters of the Multiverse and Volo's Guide to Monsters. Beyond that were Kobold Press books, Creature Codex, Tome of Beasts, Tome of Beasts 2, and Tome of Beasts 3. Finally, information contained within EN Publishing's Level Up Advanced 5th Edition Monstrous Menagerie was also used.