monster

Kelp Stranglers

Kelp Strangler

CR 4

Large undead, Neutral Evil

Reveal Stat Block

Armor Class

Hit Points

Speed

10 ft., swim 40 ft.

str

dex

con

int

-2

wis

cha

-3

Saves CON +5

Skills STEALTH +3

Damage Resistances bludgeoning, piercing

Damage Immunities poison

Condition Immunities poisoned, prone

Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 10

Languages None

Traits

Amphibious.The Kelp Strangler can breathe air and water.

False Appearance.While the Kelp Strangler remains motionless, it is indistinguishable from normal kelp or seaweed.

Aether-Infused.When the Kelp Strangler dies, it explodes in a burst of corrupted Aether. Each creature within 10 feet of it must make a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw, taking 10 (3d6) necrotic damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one.

Actions

Multiattack.The Kelp Strangler makes two slam attacks or uses its Strangling Tendrils.

Slam.Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage.

Strangling Tendrils.Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d4 + 4) bludgeoning damage, and the target is grappled (escape DC 14). Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained and takes 9 (2d4 + 4) bludgeoning damage at the start of each of its turns. The Kelp Strangler has two tendrils, each of which can grapple one target.

Kelp Stranglers

Undead or plant-based creatures that lurk in the depths of the Broad Swells. Animated by corrupted Aether, they drag unsuspecting sailors from the decks of ships into the suffocating deep.