CR 5 – Undead – Shadow Warden (6)
**Tier 2 play**
**Monster Name:** Shadow Warden
**Size, Type, Alignment:** Medium, Undead, Chaotic Neutral
**Core Stats:** Armor Class (AC) 15, Hit Points (HP) 85, Speed 30 ft.
**Ability Scores:**
Strength 14 (+2),
Dexterity 16 (+3),
Constitution 12 (+1),
Intelligence 10 (+0),
Wisdom 15 (+2),
Charisma 8 (-1)
**Proficiencies:** Saving Throws: Dexterity +6, Wisdom +5
Skills: Stealth +6, Perception +5
Damage Resistances: Necrotic, Psychic
Damage Immunities: Poison
Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened, Poisoned
**Senses:** Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
**Languages:** Understands Common and one other language of its choice, but cannot speak
**Challenge Rating (CR):** 5
**Special Abilities:**
– **Shadow Meld:** The Shadow Warden can become invisible in dim light or darkness until it attacks or until its concentration ends (as if concentrating on a spell).
– **Life Drain:** When the Shadow Warden hits a creature with a melee attack, it regains hit points equal to half the damage dealt.
**Actions:**
– **Multiattack:** The Shadow Warden makes two attacks with its Shadow Blade.
– **Shadow Blade:** Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) necrotic damage. On a hit, the target must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or have disadvantage on the next attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.
– **Shadow Burst (Recharge 5-6):** The Shadow Warden releases a wave of necrotic energy in a 15-foot radius. Each creature in that area must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw, taking 27 (6d8) necrotic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
**Description:**
The Shadow Warden is a spectral guardian of forgotten realms, born from the souls of those who perished in darkness. Cloaked in swirling shadows, it stalks the living, seeking to reclaim lost energies. It employs stealth and cunning, often ambushing its foes from the shadows. The Warden's demeanor is cold and calculating, using its abilities to sap the strength of its enemies while remaining elusive. It is said that those who fall to its blade may find their spirits trapped, forever serving the darkness.