CR 6 – Undead – Shadow Warden (4)
Tier 2 play
**Monster Name:** Shadow Warden
**Size, Type, Alignment:** Medium, Undead, Chaotic Neutral
**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 10 (+0),
Wisdom 12 (+1),
Charisma 8 (-1)
**Proficiencies:** Saving Throws: Dex +6, Con +7; Skills: Stealth +6, Perception +4
Damage Resistances: Necrotic, Psychic; Damage Immunities: Poison; Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened
**Senses:** Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
**Languages:** Understands Common and one other language of choice, but cannot speak
**Challenge Rating (CR):** 6
**Special Abilities:**
– **Shadow Meld:** The Shadow Warden can become invisible in dim light or darkness until it attacks or is in bright light.
– **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 melee attacks.
– **Shadow Blade:** Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) necrotic damage. On a hit, the target must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or be paralyzed until the end of its next turn.
– **Necrotic Burst (Recharge 5-6):** The Shadow Warden releases a wave of necrotic energy in a 15 ft. radius. Each creature in that area must make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw, taking 27 (6d8) necrotic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. The Shadow Warden regains hit points equal to half the total damage dealt.
**Description:** The Shadow Warden is a spectral figure cloaked in swirling shadows, remnants of a once-living guardian now bound to protect the secrets of the dark. It is said that these wardens were once noble protectors who fell in battle, their spirits twisted by the very darkness they sought to guard. They use their agility and stealth to ambush intruders, draining the life force of those who dare to trespass into their domain. With a cunning mind, they prefer to strike from the shadows, using their necrotic abilities to weaken foes before revealing themselves in a flurry of dark energy.