CR 5 – Type – Lava Serpent
Tier 2 play
**Lava Serpent**
Medium, Monstrosity, Chaotic Neutral
Core Stats: Armor Class (AC) 14, Hit Points (HP) 85, Speed 30 ft., swim 60 ft. (lava only)
Ability Scores:
Strength 16 (+3),
Dexterity 15 (+2),
Constitution 18 (+4),
Intelligence 1 (-5),
Wisdom 12 (+1),
Charisma 1 (-5)
Proficiencies: Saving Throws: Constitution +7, Dexterity +5; Skills: Perception +4, Stealth +5
Damage Resistances: Fire; Damage Immunities: Poison; Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened
Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Tremorsense 30 ft., Passive Perception 14
Languages: Understands Ignan but cannot speak
Challenge Rating (CR): 5
**Special Abilities:**
– **Lava Camouflage:** The Lava Serpent has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made in volcanic terrain.
– **Molten Body:** When a creature hits the Lava Serpent with a melee attack, it takes 5 (1d10) fire damage as the serpent radiates intense heat.
**Actions:**
– **Multiattack:** The Lava Serpent makes two attacks: one with its Bite and one with its Tail.
– **Bite:** +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage plus 7 (2d6) fire damage.
– **Tail Swipe:** +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) bludgeoning damage. On a hit, the target must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw or be knocked prone.
– **Eruption (Recharge 5-6):** The Lava Serpent causes a localized eruption in a 15-ft radius centered on itself. Each creature in that area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 27 (6d8) fire damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
**Description:**
The Lava Serpent is a fearsome creature born from the molten depths of active volcanoes, embodying the destructive power of lava flows. Its scales are crusted with cooled magma, giving it a rough texture and a fiery appearance. Primarily residing in lava tubes and volcanic caves, these serpents are ambush predators that strike from the shadows of the molten landscape. When threatened, they unleash torrents of fire, making them a perilous foe for adventurers. Despite their chaotic nature, Lava Serpents are instinctually territorial, often defending their volcanic lairs with cunning tactics and relentless ferocity.