Swarm of Nyssian Scarabs

Medium swarm of Tiny undead, unaligned

Armor Class 12 (natural armor)
Hit Points 22 (5d8)
Speed 20 ft., climb 20 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
3 (-4)	13 (+1)	10 (+0)	1 (-5)	7 (-2)	1 (-5)

Damage Resistances bludgeoning, piercing, slashing
Condition Immunities charmed, frightened, grappled, paralyzed, petrified, prone, restrained, stunned
Senses blindsight 10 ft., passive Perception 8
Challenge ½ (100 XP)

SPECIAL TRAITS

• Swarm. The swarm occupies a 10-foot cube, can occupy another creature’s space and vice versa, and can move through any opening large enough for a Tiny insect. The swarm can’t regain hit points or gain temporary hit points.

ACTIONS

• Scarab’s Protection. Undead that are occupying the same space as the swarm of scarabs have advantage on saving throws against any effect that turns undead and have a +2 bonus to AC. The swarm can choose to surround one undead creature. In this state, the swarm only occupies the space of that creature and may use its reaction to move up to 60 feet with that creature when that creature moves. An undead creature surrounded by the swarm in this way has immunity to any effect that turns undead and has a +5 bonus to AC.

ABOUT

Deep beneath the sands of Nys, the most ancient tunnels and tombs are home to swarms of Nyssian scarabs, guardians of the undead. The cobalt blue carapace of these undead insects is recognized by adventurers and graverobbers throughout Nys as a warning to explore elsewhere, as scarabs never stray far from other undead creatures.

Scions of the Worm God. Nyssian scarabs are as old as the sands of Nys, having fed aeons ago on the corpse of the Worm and received its immortal gift. In addition to the Worm’s immortality, the scarabs radiate its dark power to bolster the undead. Their protection as undeniable as the will of the titan itself, undead shielded by the scarabs are not easily turned by the gods or their champions.

Treasures Lost to Time. Nyssian scarabs are favored by the undying pharaoh kings of Nys both for the protection they grant and as priceless symbols of power and influence. As hosts of the Worm God’s secret, the scarabs never truly die, instead turning to stone when their animating energy leaves them.

Petrified Nyssian scarabs are seen as holy relics and good luck charms to worshipers of the Worm and are used to adorn Nyssian clothing, jewelry, and weapons.