CR 5 – Fiend – Abyssal Wretches
**Tier 2 play**
**Monster Name**: Abyssal Wretches
**Size, Type, Alignment**: Medium, Fiend, Chaotic Evil
**Core Stats**: Armor Class (AC) 15, Hit Points (HP) 85 (10d8 + 40), Speed 30 ft.
**Ability Scores**:
Strength 14 (+2),
Dexterity 16 (+3),
Constitution 18 (+4),
Intelligence 6 (-2),
Wisdom 12 (+1),
Charisma 10 (+0)
**Proficiencies**: Saving Throws: Dex +6, Con +7; Skills: Stealth +6, Intimidation +3
Damage Resistances: Cold, Fire; Damage Immunities: Poison; Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened
**Senses**: Darkvision 60 ft., Truesight 10 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages: Abyssal, Telepathy 60 ft.
Challenge Rating (CR): 5
**Special Abilities**:
– **Abyssal Step**: Once per short rest, the Abyssal Wretch can teleport up to 30 ft. to an unoccupied space it can see.
– **Aura of Despair**: Creatures within 10 ft. of the Abyssal Wretch must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on saving throws against being frightened for 1 minute.
**Actions**:
– **Multiattack**: The Abyssal Wretch makes two attacks: one with its claws and one with its Abyssal Gaze.
– **Claw Attack**: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
– **Abyssal Gaze**: Ranged Spell Attack: +5 to hit, range 60 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d10) necrotic damage and the target must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or be poisoned until the end of its next turn.
– **Cacophony of Madness (Recharge 5-6)**: Each creature of the Wretch’s choice within 30 ft. must make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw, taking 21 (6d6) psychic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
**Description**: Abyssal Wretches are twisted fiends that crawl from the depths of the Abyss, bringing chaos and horror to the realms of mortals. With burned skin and an unsettling presence, they thrive on fear and despair, often employing subterfuge to stir panic among their foes. In battle, they employ hit-and-run tactics, using their teleportation to avoid direct confrontation while weakening opponents from a distance with cursed attacks. They revel in creating confusion and fright, making them formidable opponents for any adventuring party.