At level 1, the Factotum is already a versatile and quick character, leveraging a high Dexterity for good Initiative and Weapon Finesse to make their attacks accurate. With skills in Iaijutsu Focus, they can already prep for powerful strikes in combat.
Stat Block Level 1:
Hidden Master Factotum: male, human factotum 1; CR 1; Medium humanoid (human); HD 1d8; hp 8; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 14, touch 13, flat-footed 11; Base Atk +0; Grp +0; Atk rapier +3 melee (1d6/18-20); Full Atk rapier +3 melee (1d6/18-20); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Trapfinding; SQ Inspiration; AL N; SV Fort +0, Ref +3, Will +2; Str 10, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Iaijutsu Focus +5, Hide +7, Move Silently +7, Balance +7, Tumble +7; Improved Initiative, Font of Inspiration. Special Attacks and Qualities: Inspiration points (5/day). Possessions: Rapier, chain shirt.
Level 5 Brief:
At level 5, this Factotum is starting to shine with versatile combat and skill capabilities. They can use Inspiration to boost various checks, evade threats with Cunning Defense, and heal with Opportunistic Piety. Their equipment and mobility add survivability.
Stat Block Level 5:
Hidden Master Factotum: male, human factotum 5; CR 5; Medium humanoid (human); HD 5d8; hp 25; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 13, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +3; Grp +3; Atk rapier +6 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +6 melee (1d3/18-20); Full Atk rapier +6 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +6 melee (1d3/18-20); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Trapfinding, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense, Cunning Strike; SQ Inspiration, Arcane Dilettante (2 Spells), Opportunistic Piety; AL N; SV Fort +1, Ref +4, Will +4; Str 10, Dex 17, Con 10, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Iaijutsu Focus +5, Hide +11, Move Silently +11, Balance +11, Tumble +11; Improved Initiative, Font of Inspiration, Weapon Finesse. Special Attacks and Qualities: Inspiration points (5/day), Arcane Dilettante (2 spells), Using Cunning Insight. Possessions: Rapier, gnomish quickblade, chain shirt.
Level 10 Brief:
By level 10, the Factotum has refined Iaijutsu-focused combat and achieved a mastery over a wide range of skills. They can draw weapons swiftly and leverage high Dex for deadly rapid strikes, while also using Inspiration for various tactical advantages.
Stat Block Level 10:
Hidden Master Factotum: male, human factotum 8/samurai 1/fighter 1; CR 10; Medium humanoid (human); HD 8d8+2d10; hp 48; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 20, touch 15, flat-footed 17; Base Atk +8; Grp +8; Atk rapier +11 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +11 melee (1d3/18-20) or katana +11 melee (1d10/19-20); Full Atk rapier +11/+6 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +11/+6 melee (1d3/18-20) or katana +11/+6 melee (1d10/19-20); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Trapfinding, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety; SQ Arcane Dilettante (3 spells), Cunning Surge, Ancestral Daisho Proficiency; AL N; SV Fort +2, Ref +10, Will +6; Str 10, Dex 18, Con 10, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Iaijutsu Focus +12, Hide +12, Move Silently +12, Balance +14, Tumble +14; Improved Initiative, Font of Inspiration, Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (Katana), Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Gnomish Quickblade), Quick Draw. Special Attacks and Qualities: Inspiration points (10/day), Drawing weapons as free action. Possessions: Rapier, gnomish quickblade, katana, chain shirt.
Level 15 Brief:
By level 15, this Factotum build has solidified as a master of Iaijutsu and quick strikes. With abilities like Strike from the Void and numerous Inspiration points, they can deal immense damage quickly. The varied skill set and combat prowess make them highly adaptable.
Stat Block Level 15:
Hidden Master Factotum: male, human factotum 8/samurai 1/fighter 1/iaijutsu master 5; CR 15; Medium humanoid (human); HD 8d8+2d10+5d10; hp 86; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 22, touch 17, flat-footed 19; Base Atk + 13; Grp +13; Atk rapier +16 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +16 melee (1d3/18-20) or katana +16 melee (1d10/19-20); Full Atk rapier +16/+11/+6 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +16/+11/+6 melee (1d3/18-20) or katana +16/+11/+6 melee (1d10/19-20); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Trapfinding, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety, Lightning Blade; SQ Arcane Dilettante (3 spells), Cunning Surge, Ancestral Daisho Proficiency, Canny Defense, Strike from the Void; AL N; SV Fort +7, Ref +15, Will +9; Str 10, Dex 19, Con 10, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Iaijutsu Focus +18, Hide +14, Move Silently +14, Balance +16, Tumble +16; Improved Initiative, Font of Inspiration, Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (Katana), Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Gnomish Quickblade), Quick Draw, Two-Weapon Fighting, Skill Focus (Iaijutsu Focus). Special Attacks and Qualities: Inspiration points (15/day), Lightning-fast strikes, Cunning Surge for extra actions. Possessions: Rapier, gnomish quickblade, katana, chain shirt.
Level 20 Brief:
At level 20, this Factotum build is the epitome of Iaijutsu mastery. With incredibly high Initiative and multiple strikes that contain the full power of Iaijutsu Focus, they can take down even the strongest foes in a single round. Their versatility and skill mastery make them unparalleled duelists.
Stat Block Level 20:
Hidden Master Factotum: male, human factotum 8/samurai 1/fighter 1/iaijutsu master 10; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human); HD 8d8+2d10+10d10; hp 140; Init +12; Spd 30 ft.; AC 24, touch 19, flat-footed 21; Base Atk +18; Grp +18; Atk rapier +22 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +22 melee (1d3/18-20) or katana +22 melee (1d10/19-20); Full Atk rapier +22/+17/+12/+7 melee (1d6/18-20) or gnomish quickblade +22/+17/+12/+7 melee (1d3/18-20) or katana +22/+17/+12/+7 melee (1d10/19-20); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Trapfinding, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety, Lightning Blade, One Strike, Two Cuts; SQ Arcane Dilettante (3 spells), Cunning Surge, Ancestral Daisho Proficiency, Canny Defense, Strike from the Void, Strike with No Thought; AL N; SV Fort +9, Ref +18, Will +12; Str 10, Dex 21, Con 10, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Iaijutsu Focus +23, Hide +23, Move Silently +23, Balance +20, Tumble +20; Improved Initiative, Font of Inspiration, Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (Katana), Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Gnomish Quickblade), Quick Draw, Two-Weapon Fighting, Skill Focus (Iaijutsu Focus), Dodge. Special Attacks and Qualities: Inspiration points (20/day), Rapid multiple strikes with Iaijutsu Focus, Extra actions with Cunning Surge. Possessions: Rapier, pair of gnomish quickblades, katana, chain shirt.
Critical Milestones of Level Distribution
Factotum 8: The core of your versatility, gaining inspiration points and a plethora of skills.
Samurai 1: For the Ancestral Daisho Proficiency, which is key for wielding your katana and wakizashi effectively.
Fighter 1: A bonus feat to further customize your dueling style.
Iaijutsu Master 10: Your focus on rapid, high-damage strikes, with abilities like Lightning Blade and Strike from the Void.
– Provides +4 AC with a maximum Dexterity bonus of +4. – Light and flexible for mobility and stealth.
Potion of Cure Light Wounds
– Heals 1d8+1 HP for emergencies.
Thieves’ Tools
– Essential for using Disable Device and Open Lock skills.
Mid Levels
Gnomish Quickblades
– Allows for quick draws and rapid attacks. – Deals 1d3 damage with 18-20/x2 critical range. – Essential for Iaijutsu Focus strikes.
Cloak of Elvenkind
– Provides a +5 competence bonus to Hide checks.
Boots of Elvenkind
– Provides a +5 competence bonus to Move Silently checks.
Headband of Intellect +2
– Provides +2 enhancement bonus to Intelligence. – Enhances skill checks, spellcasting, and abilities dependent on Intelligence.
Gloves of Dexterity +2
– Provides +2 enhancement bonus to Dexterity. – Improves AC, reflex saves, and skills reliant on Dexterity.
Pearl of Power (1st level)
– Allows you to recall a previously cast 1st-level spell once per day. – Increases available spell slots.
Advanced Levels
Katana
– Signature weapon of the samurai. – Deals 1d10 damage with 19-20/x2 critical range. – Works in concert with Ancestral Daisho Proficiency.
Headband of Intellect +4
– Upgrade to +4 enhancement bonus to Intelligence. – Further boosts Intelligence-dependent abilities.
Gloves of Dexterity +4
– Upgrade to +4 enhancement bonus to Dexterity. – Further improves Dexterity-dependent skills and combat effectiveness.
Belt of Physical Might +4
– Provides +4 enhancement bonus to Dexterity and Constitution. – Enhances combat effectiveness and survivability.
Ring of Protection +3
– Provides +3 deflection bonus to AC. – Additional protection in combat.
Cloak of Resistance +5
– Provides +5 resistance bonus to all saving throws. – Significantly enhances survivability against spells and effects.
Rod of Extend Metamagic
– Allows you to extend the duration of your spells. – Useful for spells with short durations like Invisibility or Shield.
Combat Scenarios
Dungeon Crawls: Leverage tight spaces for ambushes and quick escapes. Use Quick Draw to strike from unexpected angles.
Open Field: Utilize superior mobility to outmaneuver and flank opponents. High Dexterity and Two-Weapon Fighting allow for a barrage of attacks.
Ambushes: Quickly turn the tables on attackers with Improved Initiative and Quick Draw. Use Cunning Surge for extra actions when needed.
Defensive Stands: Provide a defensive edge with Canny Defense and quick reflexes, parrying and counterattacking to create a bulwark against foes.
Urban Encounters: Blend into the surroundings with Hide and Move Silently skills. Strike when the moment is ripe and then vanish into the urban landscape.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Weakness
Counter
Limited Hit Points
– Avoid direct confrontations with multiple enemies. – Use mobility to evade attacks, such as Tumble and Balance to move through difficult terrain. – Let other party members keep enemies distracted. – Carry Potion of Cure Light Wounds for emergencies.
Dependency on Surprise
– Work with your party to create opportunities for surprise attacks. – Use ambush tactics and setting traps. – Utilize Hide and Move Silently skills to gain the element of surprise. – Use Darkstalker feat to remain hidden even from creatures with special senses.
Resource Management
– Manage inspiration points wisely. – Prioritize their use for critical moments in combat. – Font of Inspiration to increase the number of inspiration points available. – Carry Pearl of Power to recall spent spells.
Vulnerability to Spellcasters
– Use speed and Cunning Surge to close the distance quickly and disrupt spellcasters. – Equip items that provide spell resistance, such as Cloak of Resistance. – Use spells like Silence to prevent spellcasting.
Antimagic Fields
– Carry mundane tools and weapons for situations where magic is not effective. – Rely on non-magical skills such as Iaijutsu Focus and Weapon Finesse. – Equip a Cold Iron Rapier and Silvered Dagger to bypass some magical defenses.
Roleplaying Themes of the Secret Master
Themes
Honor and Discipline – Since you practice an old martial art, it’s likely that you follow a rigid code of honor and discipline. What impact does this have on their choices and interactions?
Duality of Life – Your character represents the duality of mind and body as a master of both academic pursuits (Factotum) and martial arts (Iaijutsu Master). How do they manage these facets of their lives in balance?
Wanderer – Your character might not have a permanent residence and instead be a nomad, constantly moving in pursuit of new experiences and spiritual growth. What motivates them to travel this way?
Secretive – The ‘Hidden Blade’ aspect of your character suggests a secretive nature. Perhaps they are a spy or an assassin with a mysterious past. How do they keep their secrets while working with a party?
Cultural Ambassador – Your character’s unique skill set may be tied to a specific culture or tradition. How do they represent and share this heritage with others?
Beyond the battlefield, your Secret Master of the Hidden Blade isn’t just a mere combatant; they are a bearer of traditions and a storyteller of their own saga. Your character can bring a rich cultural tapestry to the gaming table, adding depth to every encounter, negotiation, and even the quiet moments in between.
“The blade is not just for battle; it’s a brush with which to paint one’s legacy. Every draw, every strike, tells a story. Yours is a tale of honor, skill, and an unyielding quest for perfection.”
Cultural Influence & Traditions
Each culture in D&D has its own distinct practices and philosophies that influence the way a character is played. Here are some cultural touchstones that could shape your Secret Master:
Ancestral Honor: Paying homage to your forebears by upholding their fighting techniques and values.
Discipline of the Blade: Daily practices that refine your skills and sharpen your mind.
Martial Philosophy: A personal code that guides your actions and decisions both in and out of combat.
Ceremonial Garb: Wearing attire that signifies your dedication to the art of the blade.
Rituals of Preparation: Pre-battle rituals that focus your mind and honor the weapon you wield.
FAQ
How does equipment progression affect the Secret Master?
Your choice of equipment is pivotal to your effectiveness as a Secret Master. Starting with a rapier and progressing to gnomish quickblades and a katana, each weapon is selected for its compatibility with your abilities. The gnomish quickblades, in particular, are designed for speed, complementing your quick draw and rapid attack style. As you level up, acquiring better weapons and armor will significantly enhance your combat capabilities.
What are the top strategies for utilizing the Secret Master in combat?
Here are three strategies to maximize your Secret Master’s potential:
Surprise is your ally. Use your Quick Draw and Iaijutsu Focus to ambush unsuspecting foes.
Control the battlefield with Cunning Surge, taking extra actions to outmaneuver your opponents.
Conserve your inspiration points for crucial moments, such as enhancing your attack rolls or bolstering your defense.
How can I incorporate the Secret Master’s culture and traditions into my roleplay?
Embrace the cultural aspects of your build by weaving them into your character’s backstory and daily practices. Perhaps your Secret Master begins each day with a meditative kata, reflecting on their training and the battles ahead. Maybe they carry a family heirloom that serves as a constant reminder of their heritage. Let these cultural elements guide your interactions and choices within the game, creating a character that is as rich in history as they are in combat prowess.
Joining a group of players who share your interests can be very beneficial for those who want to learn more about the subtleties of the Secret Master of the Hidden Blade[1] build. Come chat with us on our Discord if you’d like to share your experiences, offer advice, or are just looking for a group to enjoy the art of the blade with!
Writer, Editor, GM, Technologist – Andrew’s been playing TTRPGs since as far back as he can recall… at least sometime in the nineties… or was it the early 2000s?
Everyone in the Capital knows of the wanderer, a master duelist.
He who can strike faster than lightning, and with that single strike cut through any opponent.
But in the Capital, it is rumored that the Wanderer inherited his fighting style from his father, the now deceased lord of a distant city.
This lord, himself, learned this fighting style at the feet of a simple potter living on the outskirts of the Capital.
The true master of the blade whose skill bends space-time itself. This, then, allows him to strike true from three different angles at once.
Race
Human
Class
Factotum 8/Samurai 1/Fighter 1/Iaijutsu Master 10
Ability Scores
Str 10/Dex 16/Con 10/Int 16/Wis 10/Cha 14
Skills
Iaijutsu Focus 9
Equipment
At first a rapier, then a pair of gnomish quickrazors, a Daisho, and a Chainshirt.
Goal
With ‘One Strike, Two Cuts’, Cunning Surge, and Strike with No Thought, you can attack three times with your blade as part of rolling initiative. Each applies the full might of your Iaijutsu Focus. This throws your damage so high, you can one shot most Great Wyrms.
With your pair of Quickblades, you can pretend to play Assassin’s Creed in DnD. So don’t forget to pick skills like Hide, Move Silently, Tumble, Balance, and so on.
In turn, you’ll be a stronger assassin than most builds who use the Assassin class…
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