Path of the Scale (5e Subclass)
The Scale[edit]
Barbarian Subclass
The Scale is one of twelve closely-guarded fighting styles, known as the Zodiac Of Pain. The Scale is about augmenting the user's body for absolute endurance and destruction. Originally, the Zodiac Of Pain referred to twelve adventurers who used dark magic to slaughter the forces of darkness. They each founded their own school of combat, and they each chose twelve others to lead their school. The hierarchy of a Zodiac Of Pain school is organized in twelve ranks, each containing twelve students who are sub-ranked within that rank. When a student feels ready, they can challenge the one from the rank above that corresponds to their sub-rank to a duel. If the challenger wins, they swap places. If they lose, they decrease in the standings of their rank. When a student is in the twelfth rank, he can challenge a master. If he wins, he becomes a master too and the school searches for a new recruit.
- Zodiac Of Pain Induction
You gain a Zodiac Of Pain charge. You can use it to fuel your Zodiac Of Pain abilities. Your Zodiac Of Pain charges are refilled after you finish a long rest. At 10th level, you gain a second Zodiac Of Pain charge. At 15th level, you regain one after you finish a short rest. At 20th level, you gain a third Zodiac Of Pain charge.
- Scaled Body
Your Unarmoured Defense improves like so: Your Unarmoured AC is 8 + Your Constitution Modifier + Your Dexterity modifier + Your Proficiency bonus.
- Zodiac Blades
At 6th level, you have natural weapons. You are proficient with them, they deal 1d8 Slashing, Piercing or Bludgeoning damage and they have the Light property. They have a bonus to attack and damage rolls equal to the number of Zodiac Of Pain charges you have left.
- Water Affinity
At 10th level, you have the Amphibious trait and a swimming speed equal to your walking speed. Also, you are always under the effects of the Water Walk spell.
- Blade Overcharge
Finally, at 14th level, you can double the attack and damage bonus your Zodiac Blades get from your Zodiac Charges for 1 Minute as a bonus action. During this time, they have the finesse Property. After that time, you lose 1 Zodiac Of Pain charge.
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