Aether Leech
small aberration (none), neutral
Defense
Proficiencies & Senses
Characteristics
Traits
Spell Siphon
Once per round, the Aether Leech can attempt to latch onto a spellcasting creature or a magic item. The target must make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, the leech siphons 1d6 spell slots or charged magic items. For every 3 points drained, it gains 1 hit point (maximum of 20).
Dislodge
To remove the Aether Leech, the victim must succeed on a DC 16 Strength check or use a magic-infused fire to burn it off.
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1d6+2 piercing damage.
Combat Behavior
Tactics
• Ambush spellcasting targets.
• Engage in stealthy approaches to ensure maximum effectiveness of spell siphoning.
Combat Style
Stealthy ambusher that targets magical energies.
Monster Description
Aether Leeches are peculiar aberrations often found in environments rich in magic, such as near ancient runestones or the sites of leyline intersections. These sinewy, silver-lined worms have developed an unusual ability to siphon magical energies from their surroundings and unsuspecting victims. Aether Leeches thrive in the presence of strong magical foci, with each one capable of detecting the very essence of arcane power that emanates far and wide. When an Aether Leech attaches itself to a target, it taps into their magical reserves, draining spell slots or charged items to sustain its life. Each siphoned energy point allows the creature to recover from damage, making it a threatening presence in battles against magic users.Monster behavior
Aether Leeches are typically solitary, preferring to ambush spellcasters or adventurers who wander into their territory. They display cunning tactics by latching onto a powerful enemy to siphon magic and power through quick movements. When dislodged, they will flee into the shadows, returning to their lairs until magic flows abundant again. Despite their hesitation to engage with larger threats directly, they will not hesitate to swarm together if they feel their survival is at stake. The creature's primary strength lies in stealth and evasion, making them skilled at escaping confrontation until they've drained an enemy's magic.Ecology
In the grander scheme of nature, Aether Leeches serve as both a parasite on magic and a component of the magical ecosystem. By draining arcane energy, they play a unique role in controlling the flow of magic in their habitats, often acting as a natural counterbalance to any overabundance of magical power in an area. This siphoning prevents stronger magical entities, like mages and warlocks, from monopolizing the leyline energies entirely. Consequently, Aether Leeches maintain a niche within their environments, ensuring that magic flows evenly and that no single entity becomes overwhelmingly powerful.History
Aether Leeches are said to have originated from the chaotic energies of the Plane of Magic, evolving to survive by siphoning eldritch sources of power. Their legacies intertwine with ancient tales of archmages who sought greater power, only to find themselves prey for these creatures. As magical ruins crumbled and once-majestic towers fell into decay, Aether Leeches began to roam these intertwined realities, feeding on the remains of past epochs. Each encounter with these arcane parasites serves as a reminder of the dangers that lie in the pursuit of excessive magical might.Ready to Unleash Your Dungeon Master Potential?
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