Shadow Hydra

Shadow Hydra

Description: The shadow hydra is a fearsome creature that resembles a six-headed serpent. Each of its heads is wreathed in dark energy that seems to absorb light, creating an aura of darkness around the creature. The shadow hydra’s scales are hard as stone, and its eyes glow with an ominous red light.

Nature: The shadow hydra is a solitary predator that dwells in dark places such as caverns, ruins, or underground lairs. It is a cunning and stealthy creature that uses its shadowy abilities to hunt prey and avoid detection. The shadow hydra is highly territorial and will fiercely defend its territory against any intruders.

Stats: The Bloodthirster is a CR 5 creature with the following stats:

Actions:

Multiattack:	The shadow hydra can use its action to make three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.
Bite:	Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (1d10 + 6) piercing damage and 7 (2d6) necrotic damage.
Claws:	Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d4 + 4) slashing damage and 7 (2d6) necrotic damage.
Darkness Aura (1/day):	The shadow hydra can create an aura of darkness in a 30-foot radius around itself. The darkness lasts for 1 minute or until the shadow hydra dismisses it as a bonus action. Creatures that rely on sight have disadvantage on attack rolls and Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight while within the aura.
Shadow Blend:	While in dim light or darkness, the shadow hydra can take the Hide action as a bonus action.
Shadow Stealth:	While in dim light or darkness, the shadow hydra can use the Disengage action as a bonus action.

Tactics: The shadow hydra is a cunning and dangerous foe that prefers to attack from ambush or in dim light. It uses its shadow blend ability to hide in the darkness and its shadow stealth ability to move quickly and silently. When it attacks, it uses its bite and claws to inflict both physical and necrotic damage. The shadow hydra also has the ability to create an aura of darkness, which it can use to cover its retreat or to ambush its enemies.