Helmed Horror

Overview

This construct possesses intelligence, the ability to reason and adjust its tactics, and unswerving devotion to its maker that persists even after its maker’s demise. Resembling an animated suit of empty plate armor, a helmed horror serves without ambition or emotion.

Magical Purpose

Though it takes more magical resources to create a helmed horror than a lesser suit of animated armor, the helmed horror requires less direction and maintenance as it carries out its appointed tasks. A helmed horror follows its orders with complete loyalty, and is intelligent enough to understand the difference between an order’s intent and its exact wording. Unlike many constructs, it seeks to fulfill the former rather than slavishly follow the latter.

Tactical Cunning

A helmed horror fights with the cunning of a skilled warrior, taking to the air as it attacks weaker characters and spellcasters first. However, a helmed horror lacks the insight to change its environment, fortify it, or otherwise take active measures to improve its defensive position.

Constructed Nature

A helmed horror doesn’t require air, food, drink, or sleep.

Helmed Horror CR: 4 (1,100 XP)

Medium construct, neutral

Armor Class: 20 (plate armor, shield)

Hit Points: 60 (8d8 + 24)

Speed: 30 ft , fly: 30 ft

STR

18 +4

DEX

13 +1

CON

16 +3

INT

10 +0

WIS

10 +0

CHA

10 +0

Skills: Perception +4

Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from nonmagical weapons that aren't adamantine

Damage Immunities: Force, Necrotic, Poison

Condition Immunities: Blinded, Charmed, Deafened, Frightened, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Stunned

Senses: Blindsight 60 feet (blind beyond this radius), Passive Perception 14

Languages: Understands the languages of its creator but can't speak

Challenge Rating: 4 (1,100 XP)

Magic Resistance. The helmed horror has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
Spell Immunity. The helmed horror is immune to three spells chosen by its creator. Typical immunities include fireball, heat metal, and lightning bolt.

Actions

Multiattack. The helmed horror makes two longsword attacks.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 feet, one target. Hit: 1d8 + 4 slashing damage, or 1d10 + 4 slashing damage if used with two hands.

Lifespan

Immortal

Average Height

5 to 7 feet

Average Weight

75 pounds