CR 8 – Undead – The Matrimonial Wraith
Tier 2 play
**Monster Name**: The Matrimonial Wraith
**Size, Type, Alignment**: Medium Undead, Chaotic Neutral
**Core Stats**: Armor Class (AC) 15, Hit Points (HP) 85 (10d8 + 40), Speed 30 ft. (fly 60 ft. ethereal)
**Ability Scores**:
Strength 10 (+0),
Dexterity 14 (+2),
Constitution 18 (+4),
Intelligence 12 (+1),
Wisdom 16 (+3),
Charisma 20 (+5)
**Proficiencies**:
Saving Throws: Constitution +8, Charisma +9
Skills: Insight +7, Persuasion +9, Stealth +6
Damage Resistances: Necrotic, Psychic
Damage Immunities: Poison
Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened, Paralyzed
**Senses**: Darkvision 60 ft., Ethereal Sight, Passive Perception 15
**Languages**: Common, understands but cannot speak
**Challenge Rating (CR)**: 8 (3,900 XP)
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**Special Abilities**:
– **Phantom Grasp**: When a creature within 5 ft. fails a Wisdom saving throw (DC 17), it is charmed for 1 minute. While charmed, it cannot attack the Wraith and must use its action to defend it.
– **Aura of Regret**: Any creature that starts its turn within 10 ft. of the Wraith must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw (DC 17) or take 10 (3d6) psychic damage and become frightened until the end of its next turn.
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**Actions**:
– **Multiattack**: The Matrimonial Wraith makes two Ethereal Touch attacks.
– **Ethereal Touch**: Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 22 (4d10) necrotic damage. On a hit, the target must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 17) or have its maximum HP reduced by the damage taken until the creature finishes a long rest.
– **Wail of Discontent (Recharge 5-6)**: The Wraith emits a chilling wail. All creatures within a 30-ft. radius must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 17) or take 27 (6d8) psychic damage and be stunned until the end of their next turn.
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**Description**: The Matrimonial Wraith is the restless spirit of a dowry victim, embodying the pain and sorrow of unfulfilled promises and societal constraints. Swathed in tattered bridal garb, it drifts silently in the shadows, manifesting only when its emotions are stirred. The Wraith uses its charm to manipulate foes, convincing them to protect it while broadcasting waves of despair through its aura. It employs cunning tactics, striking fear and regret into the hearts of adventurers, reminding them of the societal ties and burdens they themselves may carry.