Spellcasting. The mastermind casts one of the following spells, requiring no material components and using Intelligence as the spellcasting ability (spell save DC 15):
At will: alter self, light, mage hand
1/day each: comprehend languages, mage armor, zone of truth
Multiattack. The mastermind makes two Arcane Shock or Dagger of the Poisoned Mind attacks.
Arcane Shock. Melee or Ranged Spell Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 60 ft., one target. Hit:26 (4d10 + 4) lightning damage. If the target is a creature, it can't take reactions until the start of its next turn.
Dagger of the Poisoned Mind. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit:6 (1d4 + 4) piercing damage plus 10 (3d6) psychic damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of its next turn.
Scholarly masterminds are the formidable leaders of academic research organizations, responsible for planning and carrying out operations that delve into the secrets of the past. Some masterminds are headmasters at academies or universities. Others operate individually and in secret, pursuing agendas that might diverge wildly from those of the rest of their organization.