Where other bardic traditions inspire courage or joy, the College of Dread weaves terror into every note. Its members draw upon the ancient majesty and menace of dragons, channeling draconic power through haunting songs and theatrical performances. Their voices rumble like thunder, their instruments hiss like wyrms, and their illusions coil around the senses like a serpent tightening its grip. Tales say the first Dread Bard learned from a black dragon that devoured its audience whole, leaving behind only echoes and inspiration. Performances are equal parts spell and spectacle, invoking primal fear and awe in all who witness them.

Dread Bards harness fear not just as a tool of control, but as a medium of expression. Their songs can drive enemies to madness, freeze foes in terror, or awaken the long-dormant instincts of flight or submission. Some even claim to manifest draconic traits in moments of crescendo—spectral wings, reptilian eyes, or a breath weapon infused with arcane force. They often wear masks or face paint evoking dragons, and their performances blend music with shadowy illusions and echoing roars. Whether in grand halls or moonlit ruins, a Dread Bard’s show is unforgettable—and unsettling.

Though many who follow this path lean toward tyranny or sadistic artistry, not all who embrace the College of Dread are evil. Some use fear to protect the innocent, scaring off threats before violence can occur. Others confront horror with horror, turning their terrifying talents on worse monsters. These rare souls walk a narrow road, balancing the seductive power of fear against their conscience. But whether noble or nefarious, all Dread Bards share one truth: they do not merely perform. They unleash.

Level 3: Voice of The Dragon

Your words are laced with draconic authority, compelling those who hear them. You gain proficiency in the Intimidation skill, if you don’t already have it. You also attune your magic to draconic power. You always have the spell Dragon’s Breath prepared. Additionally, when your bard spell deals damage, you can change its damage type to psychic. If the spell targets a creature, you can add your Charisma modifier to the damage dealt to one frightened target.

Additionally, As a bonus action, you can expend a bardic inspiration die to target a creature you can see within 10 feet of you. The creature must then succeed on a Wisdom saving throw against your spell save DC or become frightened of you until the start of your next turn. This (bonus) action will be referred to as "Dragon's roar"

Expanded Spell List

Starting at 3rd level, you gain access to additional spells.

Trepidatious Rapport

Your draconic presence inspires allies to channel fear as a weapon. An ally that has one of your bardic inspiration dice can expend the die to use your Dragon Roar ability. The saving throw DC for the effect is your spell save DC, and the effect ends at the start of the ally’s next turn. Additionally, frightened creatures find it harder to resist your magic. They have disadvantage on saving throws against your bard spells.

Draconic Resolve

The indomitable will of a dragon fortifies your mind and spirit. You can add your proficiency bonus to saving throws you make to resist or end the frightened condition. If you would already add your proficiency bonus to the saving throw, you may add it a second time. Furthermore, if a creature you can see attempts to frighten you and fails, you can use your reaction to attempt to frighten them instead. The creature must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw against your spell save DC or become frightened of you for 1 minute. A frightened creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on a success.