Oath Archdragon
CREATURE 22Oath dragons are the embodiment of a cause that they pursue with unerring determination. They draw their power not from mere words, but from the meaning and ideals that those words carry. Their dedication has led to the widespread imagery of oath dragons fighting alongside noble champions trying to bring goodness where only corruption is thought to dwell. Yet, there is nothing more terrifying than the power of an oath dragon who swears to a violent cause or who is dragged into damnation by their loyalty.
While an oath dragon can theoretically be dedicated to multiple ideals, they usually choose a single cause that they pursue with incredible devotion. They provide aid to those who share their dedication and fight fiercely against those who oppose it, all to uphold their ideals. Regardless of the causes they embrace, these dragons do so wholeheartedly. This unwavering determination gives them an intensity that is rarely matched by other creatures, spurring even the most reluctant ally to action.
The dragon forges a bond with a willing creature over an hour-long ceremony, making them a bonded companion. The dragon can always sense their distance from the companion and if they're moving closer or farther away. A bonded companion automatically critically succeeds on basic saving throws against the oath dragon's abilities and spells. This link is permanent and neither can form a new link until one member dies. If the dragon or the bonded companion dies, the survivor learns the identity of the killer, but the shock leaves the survivor Stupefied 2 for 24 hours and prevents forming a new link for 1 month.
Effect: Binding Oath
50 feet. All allies in the aura gain a +2 status bonus to attack and damage rolls. The dragon's bonded companion also gains fast healing 20.
Effect: Shielding Wing
The dragon unleashes a pronouncement that strikes at the soul of its enemies, dealing 15d10 spirit damage in a 60-foot cone (DC 45 basic Will save). The dragon can't use Castigating Breath for 1d4 rounds.
The dragon makes two claw Strikes and one tail Strike in any order.
Whenever they score a critical hit with a Strike, the dragon recharges their Castigating Breath.
The dragon's roar shakes the resolve of all those who oppose them. The roar can be heard up to 1 mile away under the open sky. Any enemy who hears it is cowed by the dragon's resolve and must attempt a DC 45 Will save.
Critical Success The creature is unaffected and becomes temporarily immune for 1 hour.
Success The creature becomes Frightened 2.
Failure The creature becomes Frightened 3 and is Immobilized for as long as it's frightened.
Critical Failure The creature becomes Frightened 4 and is Fleeing for as long as it's frightened.
All allies within the dragon's heartening aura become Quickened for 1 round. Allies can use this extra action to Raise a Shield, Step, Stride, or Strike.
If a bonded companion willingly breaks their oath, they retain the benefit of being a bonded companion but are immediately cursed with no initial saving throw. The cursed creature can attempt saving throws as noted to prevent the curse from worsening.