Way of the Lightning Step is an elemental style, being a "hard" style whose philosophy is based on finding and harnessing "The Spark". The vivid flash of lightning shows in the style's breathtaking displays of raw speed and athleticism.

The way started long ago in an eastern nation, being inspired when a monk witnessed a lightning strike while meditating. The strike ignited a drive for efficiency and explosiveness, for testing limits of reaction speed and body conditioning. The monk's first breakthrough came when he was cooking, and cracked an eggshell: the physical connection with that instant of action was what helped to define the first techniques of the way. The interior supplementary theory focused on awareness and readiness, being able to spot and react to threats before danger approached.

The way began to slowly expand from its home. Its monks were known for their generosity and bravery, willing to make sacrifices few others would. Their speed allowed them to overwhelm opponents and rescue the helpless. Once word began to spread of the way's heroics, the blinding speed they are known for today became their calling card. As a Way of the Lightning Step monk, you must be prepared to make use of all of your training and step up to defend the defenseless at a moment's notice.

The Time of An Eggshell

The seemingly random assignment of cracking eggshells over and over has finally lead to a breakthrough, revealing the cornerstone of the whole way.

Beginning at 3rd level when choosing this tradition, you become unable to be Surprised while you are conscious and not Incapacitated. In addition, you can roll twice for Initiative and take either roll.

Minor Premonition

At 6th level, your training has given you superior speed, and an edge over slower foes who previously thought they were in the same league as you. During the first round of combat you have advantage on melee attack rolls against enemies that have not yet acted, gain advantage on Initiative rolls, and you win Initiative ties.

Speed of Thought

Starting at 11th level, you’ve honed your awareness and reflexes through mental aptitude and pattern recognition, allowing you to react almost subconsciously. Once per turn, if you’ve already taken your reaction, you may spend 1 ki point to take an additional reaction.

Flash Step

When you reach 17th level, you have become adept at using the maximum possible efficiency of movement for explosive speed. You can take two turns during the first round of any combat. You take your first turn at your normal initiative and your second turn at your initiative minus 10.