CR 5 – Undead – Protesting Specter

Tier 2 play

**Monster Name:** Protesting Specter

**Size, Type, Alignment:** Medium, Undead, Chaotic Neutral

**Core Stats:** Armor Class (AC) 15, Hit Points (HP) 85, Speed 30 ft.

**Ability Scores:**

Strength 10 (+0),

Dexterity 16 (+3),

Constitution 14 (+2),

Intelligence 12 (+1),

Wisdom 15 (+2),

Charisma 18 (+4)

**Proficiencies:** Saving Throws: Wisdom +5, Charisma +7; Skills: Persuasion +7, Intimidation +7

Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from Nonmagical Attacks;

Damage Immunities: Poison, Psychic;

Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened.

**Senses:** Darkvision 60 ft., Ethereal Sight (can see into the Ethereal Plane), Passive Perception 13

Languages: Understands Common and Deep Speech but cannot speak

Challenge Rating (CR): 5

**Special Abilities:**

– **Rallying Shout:** Once per day, the Protesting Specter can rally other undead within 60 feet, granting them advantage on their next attack roll.

– **Veil of Madness:** As a reaction when an enemy targets the Protesting Specter, they must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or be frightened until the end of their next turn.

**Actions:**

– **Multiattack:** The Protesting Specter makes two Spectral Grasp attacks.

– **Spectral Grasp:** +7 to hit, range 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) necrotic damage. On a hit, the target must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or be drained 5 (1d10) hit points, which are added to the Specter’s HP.

– **Ethereal Surge (Recharge 5-6):** The Protesting Specter can move through the Ethereal Plane and reappear in an unoccupied space within 30 feet, affecting all creatures in a 10 ft. radius with a wave of despair. Each creature must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or take 18 (4d8) psychic damage and be frightened until the end of their next turn.

**Description:** The Protesting Specter is a restless spirit of a once confident leader who fought passionately for their cause. Now, they drift between the material and ethereal planes, their form flickering with energy reflecting the discontent of the masses. The Protesting Specter employs fear and manipulation tactics to turn the tide of battle, sowing discord among foes, reminiscent of the way they once inspired fervor in their followers. Their presence on the battlefield is marked by echoes of distant chants and cries for justice that unsettle those opposing them.