Beast Rider ◄𝕲𝖔𝖇𝖑𝖎𝖓►

The Wilds of Krynn

Hidden within the dense forests, vast plains, and rugged mountains of Krynn lie the sanctuaries of the Beast Riders. These enigmatic rangers inhabit remote regions, far from the bustling cities and the intrigues of courtly life. Their chosen domains include:

Verdant Canopy of Silvanesti:

Among the ancient elven trees, Beast Riders form their bonds. Here, the air is thick with the scent of pine and the whisper of leaves. They ride swiftsilver wolves dodging the large trees trunks at great speeds, their silvery fur blending seamlessly with moonlight.

The Plains of Solamnia:

Beneath the vast sky, where grass stretches to the horizon, the Beast Riders mount their earthward drakes. These armored reptiles bear the scars of countless battles, their loyalty unwavering. Together, they patrol the borders, defending against marauding goblins and dark knights.

The Stony Peaks of Thorbardin:

Here, the earth trembles with the footsteps of the Beast Riders’ basilisks. These stone-skinned creatures, with eyes like polished gems, emit an aura that turns enemies to stone. The riders, clad in granite armor, forge unbreakable bonds with their reptilian companions.

Bonding in the Wilds

The process of bonding between Beast Rider and mount is a sacred ritual, passed down through generations. It unfolds as follows:

The Calling:
A young ranger ventures into the heart of the wilds, seeking a connection. They listen to the wind, watch the flight of eagles, and wait for a sign. When the moment arrives, they encounter their destined mount—a swiftsilver wolf, an earthward drake, or a basilisk guardian.

The Trial:
The ranger must prove their worth. They track the beast, matching its movements, mirroring its instincts. Upon finding their destined mount they share food, shelter, and danger. Only when the bond deepens, when the mount recognizes the ranger as kin, does the true connection begin.

The Pact:
Under the moon’s gaze, the ranger and mount make a pact. They exchange vows—the ranger promising protection, the mount pledging loyalty. The beast's aura envelops them, sealing the bond. From that moment, they are one—a symbiotic force against the encroaching darkness.

Mounted Mastery

At 3rd level, you gain proficiency with riding creatures. You can mount and dismount as a bonus action on your turn. While riding a creature you gain the following benefits;

• You gain +2 to your Armor Class
• While using a shortbow or longbow, you do not attack at disadvantage if there is an enemy in melee range of you.
• While using a shortbow or longbow, you gain advantage on attacks if your mount is not missing any hit points.

Bonded Mount

Starting at 3rd level, your bond with your mount deepens. As you gain experience, your mount gains additional abilities and stats. Choose one of the following options for your bonded mount:

• Earthward Drake: A sturdy land drake with thick scales.
• Swiftsilver Wolf: A sleek and agile wolf that moves like a shadow.
• Rock Basilisk: A fearsome basilisk with a petrifying gaze.

Earthward Drake

The Earthward Drake is a formidable reptilian creature that roams the vast Plains of Solamnia. Its massive body is covered in thick, earth-toned scales, blending seamlessly with the grassy landscape.

With powerful legs and a sinuous tail, the Earthward Drake moves with surprising speed across the plains. Its eyes, like polished amber, scan the horizon for any signs of danger.

Rock Basilisk

The Rock Basilisk is a fearsome creature that inhabits the treacherous Stony Peaks of Thorbardin. Its body is a fusion of stone and reptilian flesh, resembling a living statue.

Its eyes, cold and unyielding, are like polished obsidian. The basilisk’s stony hide is adorned with jagged ridges and sharp spikes, making it nearly indistinguishable from the rocky terrain.

The basilisk’s aura is its deadliest weapon—a field of petrifying energy that turns foes to stone upon contact. Those who venture too close risk becoming permanent fixtures in the mountain landscape.

Swiftsilver Wolf

The Swiftsilver wolf is a rare and enchanting species found deep within the heart of the Silvanesti Forest. Its appearance is a blend of ethereal beauty and primal grace.

The Swiftsilver wolf moves with a fluid elegance, its lithe body gliding through the forest underbrush. Its paws barely make a sound as it navigates the dense foliage, leaving no trace of its passage.

Despite its elusive nature, the Swiftsilver wolf occasionally reveals itself to those with pure hearts or urgent quests. Some say that those who glimpse this mystical creature are blessed with good fortune, while others believe it to be a harbinger of significant events.

Mounted Strike

At 7th level, when you make a bow or melee attack while riding your bonded mount, you deal an extra 1d6 damage. This damage increases to 2d6 at 11th level and 3d6 at 15th level.

Beast's Resilience

At 11th level, your bond with your mount grows even stronger:

• You have advantage on saving throws against being knocked prone or dismounted.
• You can mount or dismount your bonded mount as a free action during your turn.
• You may use your reaction to grant your mount temporary hit points equal to your Ranger level when it would take damage.

Apex Predator

At 15th level, you become the ultimate predator of the wilds. Your bond with your mount reaches its zenith, and you gain the following features:

• Predatory Instincts: While riding your bonded mount you have advantage on initiative rolls. When you roll initiative, your bonded mount can take the Dash or Disengage action as a reaction.
• Unrivalled Team: While riding your bonded mount, your and your mounts attacks are considered magical for the purpose of overcoming resistances and immunities.