Monks who follow the Way of the Gladiator live and die on the bloody sands of the arena in pursuit of glory, gold, and perfection of their martial art. From the dirty fighting of the pits to the flashy spectacle of grand coliseums, there are few who can match their skill with a bronze blade and wrapped fist. Monks who partake in this way are branded with a tattoo that shows the Ludus that they were trained in. Initially, these Ludus would only take in orphans and free slaves. Through time they ended up opening the doors to others who they thought were worthy of receiving their training and hopefully partake in the glory of the arena.

Ludus Training

Starting at 3rd level you specialize in an exotic signature weapon, such as a trident, net, or khopesh. The weapon can be any simple or martial melee weapon that does not have the heavy or two handed property. Weapons of the chosen type are considered monk weapons for you. The first attack you make each round with a monk weapon has advantage.

Fascina (Trident) Expertise

You are an expert using the fascina

Hasta (Spear) Expertise

You are an expert using the hasta

Khopesh (Longsword) Expertise

You become an expert using the khopesh

Laculum (Net) Expertise

You become an expert using the Laculum

Sica (Scimitar) Expertise

You become an expert using the Sica

Xiphos (Shortsword) Expertise

You become an expert using the xiphos.

Strong Performance

At 3rd level, you learn how to effectively perform in front of the crowd and at the same time diminish the opponent's pride. You become proficient in Performance or Intimidation checks. Additionally, as a bonus action, 1 ki point can be spent to attempt to knock the opponent prone. The save is DC 8 + Strength or Dexterity modifier + proficiency. 

Intimidation

You have proficiency in Intimidation skill checks.

Perfomance

You are proficient in Performance skill checks

Heroic Steps

Starting at 6th level your attacks with monk weapons count as magical for the purpose of overcoming resistance and immunity to nonmagical attacks and damage. Additionally, whenever your health decreases below 50% you can spend 1 ki point to use the Heroism spell. To increase the spell level you must spend 2 ki points per spell level increase. 

Grappling Chances

Starting at 11th level, you have learned to take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves during combat. if your opponent misses you with their melee attack you can use your reaction to spend 2 ki points and attack them back once with advantage. You also gain an advantage on rolls involving grappling or being grappled using the Acrobatics. 

Prime Palus

At 17th level, through training, and near-death experiences in the arena you are now considered to be one of the most prominent gladiators in your Ludus. You are now able to to substitute your monk weapon for any unarmed attack and deal bonus damage equal to your Martial Arts die.