Ashen Shield

*Unique to Sunderwake.* When a creature hits you with a melee attack, you can use your reaction to conjure a burst of searing ash and cinder around yourself. You gain resistance to the triggering attack's damage. Additionally, the attacker must succeed on a Dexterity saving throw or take 2d6 fire damage as the ash detonates outward in a scorching ring. The ash doesn't burn clean; it smolders with the dull, persistent heat of embers in a dead fire. This is the magic of the Ashen Church, of Verath's remains raining down as divine cinder. The shield smells of burnt offerings and old grief.