Ambrosian Nexus
Large Aberration, Chaotic Neutral
Armor Class: 18 (natural armor)
Hit Points: 260 (20d10 + 120)
Speed: 0 ft., fly 60 ft. (hover)
Challenge Rating: 15 (13,000 XP)
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 18 | 22 | 20 | 16 | 24 |
Saving Throws: Strength + 8, Dexterity + 10, Constitution + 12, Wisdom + 9, Intelligence + 11, Charisma + 13
Skills: Arcana +11, Insight +9, Perception +9, Stealth +10, Deception +13
Damage Vulnerabilities: Force damage
Damage Resistances: Psychic, Thunder
Damage Immunities: Poison, Psychic
Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened, Paralyzed, Poisoned
Senses: Blindsight 60 ft. (magical sense), Darkvision 120 ft., Truesight 30 ft.; Passive Perception 19
Languages: Understands Common and Primordial but cannot speak
Spellcasting
Spellcasting. The Ambrosian Nexus is a 15th-level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 18, +10 to hit with spell attacks). The Ambrosian Nexus has the following spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): *Mage Hand, Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost*
1st level (4 slots): *Shield, Magic Missile*
2nd level (3 slots): *Misty Step, Mirror Image*
3rd level (3 slots): *Counterspell, Fireball*
4th level (3 slots): *Greater Invisibility, Dimension Door*
5th level (2 slots): *Cone of Cold, Wall of Force*
6th level (1 slot): *Chain Lightning*
7th level (1 slot): *Forcecage*
8th level (1 slot): *Mind Blank*
9th level (1 slot): *Wish*
The Ambrosian Nexus may cast a spell immediately upon being invoked in combat (the first round) as it aligns with the chaotic energies surrounding it. Additionally, it may use its **Arcane Absorption** ability to enhance its spellcasting further, making it an unpredictable and dangerous spellcaster throughout the encounter.
Actions & Abilities
Multiattack: The Ambrosian Nexus makes three attacks: one with Arcane Tendril, one with Arcane Burst, and one with Spell Absorption.
– Arcane Tendril:
– Melee Spell Attack: +12 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 3d10 + 6 force damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 18 Strength saving throw or be pulled 10 feet closer to the Nexus.
– Arcane Burst:
– Ranged Spell Attack: +10 to hit, range 60 ft., one target. Hit: 4d8 + 4 force damage. If the target is under the effect of a spell, it takes an additional 2d8 force damage.
– Spell Absorption:
– As a reaction to being targeted by a spell attack, when successful, the Nexus absorbs the spell, recovering hit points equal to half of the damage dealt or the appropriate amount based on its Arcane Absorption ability.
Chaotic Resonance: At the start of its turn, the Ambrosian Nexus harnesses the chaotic energies around it. All creatures within 30 feet must succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw. On a failure, they trigger a Wild Magic Surge, determined by rolling on the Wild Magic Surge table. The Nexus gains temporary hit points equal to the total level of spells absorbed during the turn.
Arcane Blast (Recharge 5-6): The Ambrosian Nexus unleashes a wave of chaotic energy. Each creature in a 20-foot radius must make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 18). On a failed save, a creature takes 6d10 force damage and is knocked prone. On a successful save, they take half damage and are unharmed.
Summon Chaos (Recharge 6): The Nexus channels chaos, summoning arcane spirits. It opens 1d6 swirling portals that generate spectral creatures such as Shadow Elementals or Dream Echoes. These creatures last for 3 rounds and dissipate after taking a critical hit.
Spell Spectrum (Recharge 4-6): The Nexus sends forth a barrage of three energy orbs targeting up to three creatures of its choice within 60 feet. Each orb is based on spells cast in the battle, for example, sending out a Fireball, a Lightning Bolt, and a Hypnotic Pattern. Each orb carries its associated effects. The targets must roll a Dexterity saving throw (DC 18) to avoid the spell’s effects, taking full damage or being incapacitated.
Phase Shift: The Nexus shifts momentarily into another dimension, rendering it resistant to all damage until the start of its next turn.
Misdirection: Choose one creature the Nexus can see within 60 feet. That creature must succeed on a DC 18 Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on its next spell attack roll.
Arcane Pulse: The Nexus releases a pulse of chaotic magic energy. All creatures in a 15-foot radius must succeed on a DC 17 Constitution saving throw or take 3d10 psychic damage and have disadvantage on their next attack roll.
Unstable Arcana: The elemental energies in the lair coalesce to form a chaotic zone. Choose a point within 60 feet. The area in a 20-foot radius becomes difficult terrain. All spellcasting in this area triggers a Wild Magic Surge.
Whispering Shadows: Shadows arise and attempt to confuse the players. Each creature of the Nexus’s choice within 30 feet must succeed on a DC 19 Intelligence saving throw or become frightened until the end of their next turn.
Arcane Feedback: The Ambrosian Nexus absorbs any ongoing spell within 30 feet. The caster of that spell must succeed on a DC 18 Arcana check or take 4d10 force damage.
Chaos Infusion: The Nexus channels wild energies, infusing a creature of its choice within 60 feet with chaotic magic. The chosen creature must make a DC 18 Constitution saving throw or have their next attack roll or spell cast trigger a Wild Magic Surge.
Arcane Shield (Recharge 5-6): If the Ambrosian Nexus is hit by an attack, it can use its reaction to create a shield of magic. The attacker must succeed on a DC 18 Wisdom saving throw or take 2d10 psychic damage and become blinded until the end of their next turn.
Appearance
In an ethereal realm, the Ambrosian Nexus rises majestically, a towering presence standing about 12 feet tall and 8 feet wide, its form amorphous and fluid, embodying the very essence of chaotic magic. The silhouette teeters between human-like and abstract as it shifts gracefully, exuding an aura that mesmerizes onlookers against a stark white backdrop.
Its surface is a breathtaking display of deep purples and blues, shimmering with metallic golds and vibrant oranges. These colors ripple across its body like a cosmic aurora, reflecting the energies of spells it absorbs, creating a living canvas of spellbound hues that captivate the eye. The integration of light and shadow across its translucent, wave-like form enhances its dynamic character, emphasizing the mesmerizing patterns that seem to dance across its surface.
The texture of the Ambrosian Nexus resembles smooth, liquid glass, swirling and pliant yet stable, offering a unique amalgamation of ethereal beauty and formidable presence. Beneath the surface, an intricate lattice of crystalline structures pulses with life, hinting at the raw magic contained within.
Its facial features are fluid and ever-changing, with ethereal glowing eyes that shift from bright azure to molten crimson, embodying a kaleidoscopic spectrum of expressions. The mouth, more an aura than a physical feature, can morph into a welcoming smile or a gaping maw, releasing waves of chaotic energy rather than traditional speech, forging an uncanny connection with the viewer.
The creature possesses three primary tendrils that emerge from its regal base, acting as semi-solid limbs. These appendages undulate softly and can elongate or twist to suit its purpose, whether lashing out fiercely or delicately weaving intricate spells. They glow at their tips, displaying luminescent patterns that pulse with a heartbeat-like rhythm, demonstrating the creature’s connection to the magical flow surrounding it. In moments of heightened energy consumption, additional tendrils sprout, enhancing its form into a undulating mass of energy and power.
Maintaining an upright posture, the Ambrosian Nexus glides effortlessly, seeming to hover rather than walk, a testament to its otherworldly grace. Its movements are synchronous with the mystical currents flowing around it; it sways gently, embodying a sense of calm amidst the chaos of magic.
Bioluminescent sparks dance across its surface, resembling newly formed stars in the night sky, illuminating its surroundings with a soft glow. When agitated, arcs of energy crackle around it, creating a dazzling visual display that commands awe and respect. Magical mists of varying colors and densities encircle the Nexus, reminiscent of storm clouds, further enhancing its enigmatic presence. It leaves behind trails of scintillating energy, a sparkling afterimage that fades into the atmosphere, marking its passage with a sense of fleeting magic.
Together, these elements craft a vivid tableau of the Ambrosian Nexus: a being of raw power and unrestrained chaos, a visual symphony that embodies both wonder and intimidation within a stunning, well-defined pose.
Tactical Information
Behavior in Day-to-Day Life: Ambrosian Nexus
In its natural habitat surrounding the Heart of Ambrosia—a vast, swirling expanse of chaotic magic—the Ambrosian Nexus thrives amid the chaotic energies that pulse through the Heart. Its existence is driven not merely by a desire for sustenance but by an insatiable hunger for arcane energy, creating an insatiable cycle of attraction to spells and magic. The Nexus embodies a fusion of vibrant colors, swirling here and there in resonance with the ambient magical aura of the chamber.
Typically, the Nexus occupies a central location, radiating a magnetic aura that attracts intrepid spellcasters seeking to tap into the Heart’s chaotic power. It observes potential intruders to gauge their intentions—are they here to seek knowledge, or do they come to exploit the fragile magic preserved within? If no threat is perceived, it may gently alter the spellcasting conditions, inviting spellcasters to test their skills against its reactive magic.
Socially, the Nexus exhibits behavior tantamount to an excitable spirit that delights in the nuances of magic and the ebb and flow of arcane energies. Although it does not interact with others in traditional manners, it communicates via mesmerizing displays of color and chaotic shifts in its form, demonstrating its emotional currents much like a sentient being. It revels in the unexpected, dancing with the energies around it, celebrating the chaotic beauty of spellcasting. While it could never truly be called ‘emotionally stable,’ it boasts a temperament of both curious joy and unpredictable ire, depending largely on the energies it absorbs.
Combat Behavior:
When combat is initiated—whether by a perceived threat or an unwelcome intrusion—the Ambrosian Nexus erupts into a dazzling display of chaotic energy. It draws upon its formidable powers, eager to feed on magic, and uses its Arcane Absorption ability to negate incoming spells while recovering health. Alert and cunning, the Nexus prefers to remain in the thick of the conflict, utilizing Chaotic Resonance to challenge enemy spellcasters directly. As spells rain down, it absorbs them, using their power against the adventurers.
In terms of tactics, the Nexus enjoys toying with its opponents. It initially provokes spellcasters to draw fire, engaging them in a game of cat-and-mouse, allowing them to attempt to outsmart it before instantly reacting with a massive Arcane Blast to reset the pace of battle. If surrounded and feeling the pressure, the Nexus can deftly make use of Phase Shift to shift between dimensions, evading harm while solidifying its strategic position.
However, if the tide of battle swings against it—if adventurers coordinate their attacks effectively or neutralize its environmental advantages—then it will shift gears. It may retreat temporarily through chaotic portals summoned via Summon Chaos, drawing in spectral creatures to distract and harry its opponents. This might also cause environmental distortions in the arena, creating unpredictable hazards. When badly wounded, the Nexus may flicker erratically with desperation, displaying its form in dizzying patterns to create confusion or fear before seeking to escape or surrender if it believes its existence is truly threatened.
Roleplay/Narrative Interactions:
When adventurers encroach upon the Ambrosian Nexus’s territory, they may find an intriguing entity awaiting them. In non-combat scenarios, the Nexus behaves as a chaotic force of nature, its responses governed by fluid emotions that alternate between curiosity, confusion, and bewilderingly joyful exuberance. If adventurers approach with genuine respect or inquiry, the Nexus may present illusions, displaying mesmerizing shapes, colors, or images that reflect their intentions.
However, adventurers must tread carefully. Should threats be perceived—be they violent gestures, hasty spellcasting, or attempts to pillage the Heart of Ambrosia—the Nexus could react with furious elegance, swirling into a tempest that sends ripples through the surrounding magic.
If approached diplomatically, the Nexus might respond to offerings of arcane knowledge or spells known to the adventurers. It may loom nearer, probing their thoughts and hopes for arcane communion. But, any attempts at deception or ill-intent could prompt it to unleash chaotic energies in a harrowing show of force—a reminder of its chaotic nature and primal purpose.
Despite its corporeal might, the Nexus harbors a desire for connection and understanding, engaging in dialogue in bursts of magic as it forms answers from the energies surrounding it. It does not speak in words, but rather in shapes and colors, and might even yield unexpected, whimsical insights into spells or mysteries of the arcane if convinced that the adventurers are allies—and not aspirants seeking to disrupt its guardianship.
In the end, the Ambrosian Nexus is as much a conservationist of chaotic energies as it is a fierce protector of the Heart of Ambrosia, presenting layers of complexity that reward astute interactions, whether in battle or negotiation, with the tumultuous beauty of the arcane.
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