College of the Defender

The College of the Defender is about the defense of your allies through song, banter, and inspiration. You stand to bolster your parties spirits and morale in moments of necessity. Bards of this college are able to increase the defense of their allies through the magic of their music.

Let's just get to the meat of this subclass.

Bonus Proficiencies

When you join the College of the Defender at 3rd level, you gain proficiency with Medium Armor, Shields, and one Martial Weapon of your choice.

Inspiring Defense

Also at 3rd level, any creature that you inspire may use that inspiration die to increase their armor class. The inspired creature gains AC equal to their roll until the end of the round.

Defensive Caster

Thirdly at 3rd level, you become able to cast spells while defending yourself. You gain the main effect of the War Caster feat, allowing you to cast spells while wielding weapons and shields.

Ally Guard

At 6th level, you have learned how to better defend your allies. You may give a creature adjacent to you the AC boost from your shield as a reaction. This lasts until the start of your next turn or until that creature moves away from you.

Improved Countercharm

At 14th level, your ability to defend your allies against their fears and the charms of enemies has improved. The Countercharm Bard ability can now be used as a bonus action. Also, it now gives you and all friendly creatures within 30 feet of you immunity to the Charmed and Frightened conditions.