CR 8 – Dragon – Shadow Wyrm

**Tier 2 play**

**Monster Name:** Shadow Wyrm

**Size, Type, Alignment:** Large, Dragon, Chaotic Evil

**Core Stats:** Armor Class (AC): 15, Hit Points (HP): 110, Speed: 40 ft., Fly 60 ft.

**Ability Scores:**

Strength 20 (+5),

Dexterity 14 (+2),

Constitution 18 (+4),

Intelligence 12 (+1),

Wisdom 15 (+2),

Charisma 17 (+3)

**Proficiencies:** Strength, Constitution

Damage Resistances: Cold, Lightning

Damage Immunities: Poison, Psychic

Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened

**Senses:** Darkvision 60 ft., Blindsight 30 ft., Passive Perception 15

Languages: Draconic, understands Common but cannot speak

Challenge Rating (CR): 8

**Special Abilities:**

– **Shadow Blend:** While in dim light or darkness, the Shadow Wyrm can take the Hide action as a bonus action.

– **Aura of Dread:** Creatures that start their turn within 20 feet of the Shadow Wyrm must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of their next turn.

**Actions:**

– **Multiattack:** The Shadow Wyrm makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.

– **Bite:** +8 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 2d10 + 5 piercing damage.

– **Claw:** +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2d6 + 5 slashing damage.

– **Breath of Shadows (Recharge 5-6):** The Shadow Wyrm exhales a 30-foot cone of necrotic energy. Each creature in that area must make a DC 16 Constitution saving throw, taking 5d8 necrotic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.

**Description:** The Shadow Wyrm is a creature of nightmares, its dark scales blending seamlessly into the shadows. Born from the remnants of a draconic spirit twisted by dark magic, it stalks the realms where light barely reaches. Cunning and malicious, it uses the darkness to ambush its enemies, relying on fear to weaken those who dare to confront it. Employing hit-and-run tactics, it strikes swiftly before vanishing back into the shadows, leaving behind only despair and the echoes of its terrible laughter.