Swordburst

Swordburst

Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Self (see options)
Components: V, S
Duration: Instantaneous (or 1 minute, see special)

Description:

When you unleash Swordburst, spectral or elemental blades erupt into existence — shimmering, spinning, and slicing through the air with deadly precision.
You choose one of three forms when casting the spell.

Form I — Storm of Blades (AOE)

A whirling eruption of spectral swords bursts around you.

• Effect: Each creature of your choice within a 20-foot radius must make a Dexterity saving throw.

• On a failed save: The creature takes 6d10 slashing or force damage (your choice).

• On a successful save: It takes half as much damage.

• The area becomes difficult terrain until the start of your next turn as the blades briefly embed into the ground.

Form II — Blade Seekers (Homing)

You conjure several blades that fly toward your enemies with uncanny accuracy.

• Effect: You create up to 5 homing blades.

• Each blade can target one creature within 120 feet.

• Make a ranged spell attack for each blade.

• On a hit, the target takes 3d8 slashing or force damage.

• You can direct multiple blades at the same target or spread them out among several foes.

• The blades twist around obstacles and cannot be blocked by cover other than total cover.

Form III — Falling Judgment (Random AOE)

You summon blades from the heavens, raining down chaotic destruction.

• Effect: Choose a point within 90 feet.

• Blades crash down in a 30-foot radius area centered on that point.

• Roll 1d6 for each creature in the area:

  • 1–3: Takes 4d10 slashing damage.

  • 4–5: Takes 4d10 force damage and is pushed 10 feet.

  • 6: Takes 6d10 damage (mixed type) and is knocked prone as a massive blade explodes nearby.

The terrain becomes lightly obscured by shimmering blade fragments until the start of your next turn.

Defensive Variant (1/long rest)

When you finish casting Swordburst, you may choose to sustain a portion of the energy as a defensive aura.

• Duration: 1 minute

• Effect: A ring of spinning blades orbits you in a 10-foot radius.

  • Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the area takes 3d8 slashing damage (Dex save for half).

  • You gain +2 AC while the blades orbit you.

• You can end this effect early as a bonus action.

• Once you use this defensive form, you can’t use it again until you finish a long rest.

At Higher Levels.

When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 6th level or higher:

• Increase the damage of each form by 1d10 for each slot level above 5th.

• The defensive aura’s damage increases by 1d8 per higher level.