CR 5 – Undead – Shadow Warden (7)
Tier 2 play
**Monster Name:** Shadow Warden
**Size, Type, Alignment:** Medium, Undead, Neutral 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, Deception +7
Damage Resistances: Necrotic; Damage Immunities: Poison; Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened
**Senses:** Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
**Languages:** Common, Infernal
**Challenge Rating (CR):** 5
**Special Abilities:**
– **Shadow Step:** As a bonus action, the Shadow Warden can teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space it can see that is in dim light or darkness.
– **Aura of Despair:** Creatures within 10 feet of the Shadow Warden must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on saving throws against being frightened while they remain in the aura.
**Actions:**
– **Multiattack:** The Shadow Warden makes two attacks with its Shadow Blade.
– **Shadow Blade:** Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) necrotic damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or be poisoned until the end of its next turn.
– **Necrotic Blast (Recharge 5-6):** Ranged Spell Attack: +7 to hit, range 60 ft., one target. Hit: 21 (6d6) necrotic damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or have its hit point maximum reduced by an amount equal to the necrotic damage taken until it finishes a long rest.
**Description:** The Shadow Warden is a sinister figure, cloaked in shadows and emanating an aura of dread. Once a powerful sorcerer who dabbled in dark magic, it now exists as an undead entity, bound to protect ancient secrets. The Shadow Warden prefers to ambush its prey, using its teleportation abilities to strike from the darkness and retreat before foes can retaliate. Its demeanor is cold and calculating, often leading its victims into traps of despair and fear.