This greatsword is a marvel of craftsmanship, forged from polished steel that seems unnaturally pristine. The blade is unnervingly smooth, its mirror-like surface reflecting distorted images of those who gaze into it. Runes etched along the fuller pulse faintly with a dim, silvery light, as if alive with latent magic. The hilt is wrapped in dark leather, and the crossguard is shaped like two angular, interlocking gauntlets, symbolizing the bond between weapon and wielder.

When held, the sword feels unnaturally heavy, as though burdened by an ancient purpose. A faint hum of arcane energy emanates from the blade, resonating with the wielder's heartbeat. Those attuned to the sword often report hearing the faint clanking of armor in their dreams, as if the sword itself seeks to awaken something long dormant. Zarathustra is a masterpiece of artifice, a weapon forged from dark steel and inlaid with glowing crimson runes. The blade’s surface seems to ripple like liquid metal, and it hums faintly with an ominous resonance. The hilt is wrapped in black leather, and a crimson gem embedded in the crossguard pulses like a heartbeat. The sword exudes an aura of authority and menace, and those who wield it feel an irresistible pull toward power.

• Animated Guardian: When a creature touches or wields Zarathustra, the sword magically summons and binds the wielder to an Animated Vengeful Vanguard. The summoned creature is under the control of the wielder and remains active until the sword is no longer wielded or the summoner dies. The armor is loyal but retains a cautious sentience, refusing to perform self-destructive actions unless commanded in combat.
• Armor’s Insight: While attuned, the wielder gains proficiency in Heavy Armor if they do not already have it. If they are already proficient, they gain a +1 bonus to their AC while wearing heavy armor.
• Sentient Resonance: Once per long rest, the wielder can use an action to command the sword to release a pulse of energy. Each creature within a 15-foot radius must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be pushed 10 feet away and knocked prone.

  Sentient Weapon. Zarathustra is a sentient greatsword (Intelligence 14, Wisdom 12, Charisma 18; hearing and darkvision 120 ft.). It communicates telepathically with its wielder and speaks Common and Infernal.

  Master of the Awakened. Any time a creature wields Zarathustra, they can command Animated Armors and other constructs as if using the Dominate Monster spell (no concentration required). The effect lasts while the sword is held.

  Awaken the Guardian. When a creature wields Zarathustra, they awaken the Bound Guadian. This creature serves the wielder loyally unless commanded otherwise.

  Devastating Strikes. Zarathustra grants a +7 bonus to attack and damage rolls made with it. Additionally, when it hits a creature, the target takes an extra 3d6 force or slashing damage (wielder’s choice).

  Aura of Fear. As an action, the wielder can activate Zarathustra’s aura, forcing all creatures of the wielder’s choice within 30 feet to make a DC 18 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. Creatures can repeat the saving throw at the end of their turns. This ability recharges after a long rest.

Cursed Awakening: If the wielder dies while attuned to Zarathustra, the Animated Vengeful Vanguard turns hostile, attacking all creatures it can sense. The sword becomes dormant and loses its magic until the armor is defeated.

Proficiency with a Greatsword allows you to add your proficiency bonus to the attack roll for any attack you make with it.

Notes: Proficiency: Heavy Armor, A creature with a strength score of 15 or higher, Damage, Combat, Heavy, Two-Handed, Graze