Essa-Construct
Forge Sentinel
CR 5
Medium Essa-Construct — Unaligned (obeys creator)
In the World
Deployed constructs built using Machinist Forge Techniques. A Forge Sentinel operates semi-autonomously within parameters set by its Machinist — patrol zone, threat priority, engagement rules. It has no personality and no initiative beyond its directive. Empire Forge Sentinels carry an imperial serial stamp; independent Sentinels are unmarked. The distinction matters in citadels where construct registration is enforced. Finding an unmarked Sentinel operating in an Empire territory is either a licensing violation or evidence of something considerably worse.
Traits
Essa Core
The Forge Sentinel is powered by an Essa core equivalent to one T2 vial per day. If deprived of Essa recharge for 24 hours, it shuts down. The core can be accessed and removed with a DC 15 thieves' tools check or Rig Maintenance Kit.
Construct Nature
The Sentinel does not need to breathe, eat, drink, or sleep. It does not fail death saving throws — it either functions or it does not.
Directive Lock
The Sentinel cannot be charmed or redirected by any means short of accessing its directive core (a physical component in the chest housing). A creature within 5 ft can attempt to override the directive with a DC 18 INT (Arcana) or DEX (thieves' tools) check as an action.
Actions
Multiattack
The Forge Sentinel makes two Force Strike attacks.
Force Strike
Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft, one target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage plus 7 (2d6) force damage.
Essa Burst (Recharge 5–6)
The Sentinel fires a force discharge in a 15 ft cone. Each creature in the area must succeed on a DC 15 DEX saving throw or take 21 (6d6) force damage (half on success).