College of Authority

 Bards of the College of Authority subclass are master manipulators of sound and speech, their voices resonating with a power that can influence minds and bend wills. Unlike other bards who might rely on musical instruments or arcane gestures, these bards understand that the most potent tool they possess is their voice. Trained in ancient techniques and refined through rigorous practice, their vocal commands are infused with a magical essence that compels obedience and inspires action.

From the moment a College of Authority bard steps onto the battlefield, their presence is unmistakable. They bark orders with an intensity that cuts through the chaos, their words carrying an almost tangible force. Allies find themselves driven to act with unprecedented courage and precision, while enemies falter, their resolve crumbling under the weight of the bard’s commands. This unique ability to direct the flow of combat and manipulate friend and foe alike makes the College of Authority bard a strategic cornerstone in any adventuring party.

The power of their voice extends beyond mere commands. At early levels, these bards can cast the *command* spell without expending spell slots, targeting multiple creatures with a single utterance. Their words become a conduit for their Bardic Inspiration, allowing them to empower allies to perform extraordinary feats at a moment's notice. As they grow in power, their vocal prowess deepens, enabling them to issue more complex and far-reaching commands through spells like *suggestion* and *mass suggestion*.

By the time they reach the pinnacle of their abilities, College of Authority bards become nearly unstoppable. Their words can sway entire battalions, their commands enforced with an almost supernatural compulsion. Enemies find it nearly impossible to resist the bard’s directives, and allies are galvanized into performing beyond their normal capabilities. Whether commanding the battlefield or navigating the subtleties of court intrigue, these bards wield their voices like a master swordsman wields a blade, precise and deadly.

 

Bonus Proficiencies

When you join the College of Authority at 3rd level, you gain proficiency with Intimidation and Persuasion.

Voice of Authority

Also at 3rd level, when you join the College of Authority, your words carry an undeniable power, compelling those who hear them to act according to your will. As a bonus action, you can expend one use of your Bardic Inspiration to cast the command spell. Using this ability does not count as casting a leveled spell in terms of casting limitations.

Universal Speech

At 6th level, you have gained the ability to make your speech intelligible to any creature. When you cast the command spell, the chosen target(s) can magically understand you, regardless of the language you speak. This even works against undead targets. 

Greater Authority

Also at 6th level, you gain the ability to pour more magic into your voice. When you use the Voice of Authority feature, you can issue a two-word command. Additionally, you can target two creatures when you use the Voice of Authority Feature. 

 

At 15th level, you can issue a three-word command and target 3 creatures.

Voice of Dominion

Starting at 14th level,  you have mastered the ability to dominate your enemies with the power of your voice. Once per long rest you can cast the dominate monster spell without expending a spell slot.