Way of the Turtle (5A)

This is an original Monk monastic tradition for 5A.

Way of the Turtle monks wear armor and use heavier weapons than other monks. Often found in military settings, turtle monks are less spiritual, focusing on raw power and martial mastery.

Greyhawk Common in the military of the Celestial Empire, turtle monks usually have the demeanor and career of military officers.

Subclass Features

Turtle Armor

Starting when you choose this monastic tradition at 3rd level, you gain proficiency in light armor and medium armor. You can use any monk ability in armor you are proficient with, ignoring the normal restrictions on monk class features. The exception is Unarmored Defense, you still cannot use Unarmored Defense in armor.

If you are already proficient in medium armor, you gain proficiency in Athletics. If you are already proficient in Athetics, you gain proficiency in any one skill of your choice.

Turtle Power

Starting at 6th level, you gain proficiency with all martial melee weapons, and melee weapons you wield count as magical weapons for the purpose of overcoming resistance and immunity to nonmagical attacks and damage

Turtle's Bite

At 11th level, when you hit with an unarmed attack, you can attempt to Grapple without expending an action. When you hit with a melee weapon attack, you can attempt to Shove without spending an action. You can only attempt one free grab or one free shove each round, recharging the ability at the start of your turn.

Turtle Shield

At 17th level you can use Deflect Missiles without having to spend your reaction.

Designer's Notes