College of Tactics

Whenever a great victory is won, there are always heralds ready to tell tales of valour. Whenever a terrible war is lost, there are always bards ready to sing songs of woe. Rarer by far are those with the wit to truly learn from such battles, and the will to wield their hard-won knowledge.

Those of the College of the Tactics play from the music sheet of war, leading the clash of spears and shields like an orchestra, their blade a conductor's baton. With wits honed to a razor edge and judgement tempered with the study of minor skirmishes and grand sieges alike, these brilliant campaigners are known far and wide for the ability to snatch victory from defeat.

Where other bards make their name with some great epic or symphony, the tacticians work for a historic victory, a battle plan that will be taught through the ages.

Where other bards master the art of poetry, the art of song, or the art of dance, these strategists dedicate themselves to a singular and stirring beauty: the art of war.

Bonus Proficiencies

When you join the College of Tactics at 3rd level, you gain proficiency in History and one gaming set of your choice.

You also gain proficiency in medium armour and shields.

Tactician's Genius

Starting at 3rd level, you can use tactics from the list opposite. These tactics each target a friendly creature who can see or hear you within 60 feet, called a comrade. Using a tactic expends one use of Bardic Inspiration.

You can only use tactics that you have prepared. You choose three tactics from this list to prepare whenever you complete a long rest, having spent time revising your ideas and considering the battles ahead.

You can prepare an additional tactic at 6th and 14th level.

Commander's Stratagems

Starting at 6th level, when a creature rolls one of your Bardic Inspiration die, they can roll it twice and use either result.

Leader's Battlecry

Also at 6th level, your Countercharm feature improves. Instead of granting advantage, it renders friendly creatures within 30 feet immune to being frightened or charmed, and removes such conditions if they already exist.

General's Flair

At 14th level, you gain an additional use of your Bardic Inspiration feature.

In addition, you can use your reaction to grant a Bardic Inspiration die, or to employ a tactic which would normally require a bonus action.

You can use this feature at any point, including after a die is rolled but before the DM applies its effects.

Tactics