CR 5 – Undead – Harbinger of Despair
**Tier 2 play**
**Monster Name**: Harbinger of Despair
**Size, Type, Alignment**: Medium, Undead, Chaotic Evil
**Core Stats**: Armor Class (AC) 15, Hit Points (HP) 85, Speed 30 ft.
**Ability Scores**:
Strength 12 (+1),
Dexterity 16 (+3),
Constitution 14 (+2),
Intelligence 10 (+0),
Wisdom 15 (+2),
Charisma 18 (+4)
**Proficiencies**:
Saving Throws: Wisdom +5, Charisma +7
Skills: Stealth +6, Intimidation +7
Damage Resistances: Necrotic, Psychic
Damage Immunities: Poison
Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened, Poisoned
**Senses**: Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
**Languages**: Common, Abyssal
**Challenge Rating (CR)**: 5
**Special Abilities**:
– **Aura of Despair**: Creatures within 10 feet of the Harbinger must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or suffer disadvantage on saving throws against fear effects.
– **Life Drain**: Melee attacks against living creatures deal an extra 1d6 necrotic damage and heal the Harbinger for half the damage dealt.
**Actions**:
– **Multiattack**: The Harbinger makes two attacks: one with its Shadow Blade and one with its Life Drain.
– **Shadow Blade**: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1d8 + 3 psychic damage.
– **Life Drain**: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2d6 + 4 necrotic damage, and the Harbinger regains hit points equal to half the necrotic damage dealt.
– **Terrifying Visage (Recharge 5-6)**: Each creature of the Harbinger's choice within 30 feet must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. A frightened target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success.
**Description**: The Harbinger of Despair is a spectral figure cloaked in tattered robes that seem to absorb light. Born from the anguish of countless souls, it wanders the realms, feeding on fear and despair. Tactically, it uses its Aura of Despair to weaken foes before striking with its shadowy blade. It delights in watching its victims succumb to terror, often taunting them with whispers of their deepest fears. The Harbinger is relentless, stalking its prey until they are brought to their knees in hopelessness.