The Hexblade Cult Leader build combines arcane curses with leadership abilities to control the battlefield.
Starting with a Tiefling Hexblade, the build progresses through Bard, Fiend of Possession, Fiend of Corruption, and Fiend of Blasphemy classes.
Key feats include Weapon Finesse, Skill Focus (Knowledge: Religion), and Dreadful Wrath to bolster both combat and social influence.
Early equipment focuses on boosting charisma and defensive capabilities, while later levels prioritize items that enhance spellcasting and control.
Effective strategies involve using Hexblade’s Curse and Bardic Music to debuff enemies and bolster allies, with a focus on manipulating encounters to the party’s advantage.
A charismatic infiltrator with a focus on social manipulation and curses.
Stat Block Level 1:
Cult Leader: female, Tiefling Hexblade 2; CR 2; Medium outsider (native); HD 2d10; hp 10; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 16, touch 13, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +2; Grp +1; Atk rapier +5 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or dagger +5 ranged (1d4+1/19-20); Full Atk rapier +5 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or dagger +5 ranged (1d4+1/19-20); SA Hexblade’s Curse 1/day, Dreadful Wrath; SQ Arcane Resistance, Darkvision 60 ft., Fiendish Bloodline; AL CE; SV Fort +0, Ref +6, Will +4; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 14, Cha 16.
Skills and Feats:
Bluff +10, Disguise +10, Hide +6, Knowledge (Arcana) +6, Knowledge (Religion) +10, Sense Motive +10; Weapon Finesse, Skill Focus (Knowledge: Religion), Dreadful Wrath. Special Attacks and Qualities: Hexblade’s Curse (1/day), Dreadful Wrath (enemies within 20 ft. must make a Will save or be shaken for 1 minute). Possessions: Chain Shirt, Rapier.
Level 5 Brief:
A versatile infiltrator and social manipulator with strong combat capabilities.
Stat Block Level 5:
Cult Leader: female, Tiefling Hexblade 2/Bard 1/Fiend of Possession 2; CR 5; Medium Outsider (Native, Evil); HD 2d10+1d6+2d6; hp 24; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 13, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +2; Grp +1; Atk Rapier +5 (1d6+1/18-20) or Dagger +5 (1d4+1/19-20); Full Atk Rapier +5 (1d6+1/18-20) or Dagger +5 (1d4+1/19-20); SA Hexblade’s Curse 1/day, Bardic Music, Possess Object; SQ Arcane Resistance, Ethereal Form, Hide Presence; AL LE; SV Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +6; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 14, Cha 16.
A master infiltrator and social manipulator, capable of possessing creatures and granting wishes.
Stat Block Level 15:
Cult Leader: female, Tiefling Hexblade 2/Bard 1/Fiend of Possession 6/Fiend of Corruption 6; CR 15; Medium Outsider (Evil); HD 15d6+0; hp 52; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 13, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +10; Grp +9; Atk Rapier +13 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Possess Creature; Full Atk Rapier +13/+8 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Possess Creature; SA Hexblade’s Curse, Possess Creature, Control Creature, Grant Wish; SQ Arcane Resistance, Ethereal Form, Fiend’s Favor, Fiendish Graft, Major Creation, Geas, Temptation; AL CE; SV Fort +5, Ref +8, Will +12; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 14, Cha 20.
Skills and Feats:
Bluff +20, Disguise +20, Hide +9, Knowledge (Arcana) +9, Knowledge (Religion) +20, Sense Motive +20; Weapon Finesse, Skill Focus (Knowledge: Religion), Dreadful Wrath, Fiendish Bloodline, Imperious Command, Leadership, Darkstalker, Skill Focus (Intimidate). Special Attacks and Qualities: Hexblade’s Curse 1/day, Arcane Resistance, Ethereal Form, Hide Presence, Possess Object, Control Object, Animate Object, Possess Creature, Control Creature, Alternate Form, Fiend’s Favor, Suggestion, Mind Shielding, Outsider Wings, Mark of Justice, Fiendish Graft, Major Creation, Geas, Temptation, Grant Wish, Soul Bargain. Possessions: Chain Shirt, Rapier.
Level 20 Brief:
A master infiltrator and social manipulator, capable of possessing creatures and granting wishes.
Stat Block Level 20:
Cult Leader: female, Tiefling Hexblade 2/Bard 1/Fiend of Possession 6/Fiend of Corruption 6/Fiend of Blasphemy 5; CR 20; Medium Outsider (Evil); HD 2d10+1d6+6d6+6d6+5d8; hp 90; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 13, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +12; Grp +11; Atk Rapier +15 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Possess Creature; Full Atk Rapier +15/+10/+5 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Possess Creature; SA Hexblade’s Curse, Bardic Music, Possess Object, Control Object, Control Creature, Fiendish Graft, Grant Wish; SQ Arcane Resistance, Ethereal Form, Hide Presence, Alternate Form, Fiend’s Favor, Outsider Wings, Blood Oath, Transfer Spell-Like Ability, Mind Shielding; AL CE; SV Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +12; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 14, Cha 20.
Skills and Feats:
Bluff +23, Disguise +23, Hide +19, Knowledge (Arcana) +14, Knowledge (Religion) +20, Sense Motive +20; Weapon Finesse, Skill Focus (Knowledge: Religion), Dreadful Wrath, Fiendish Bloodline, Imperious Command, Leadership, Darkstalker, Skill Focus (Intimidate). Special Attacks and Qualities: Hexblade’s Curse 1/day, Arcane Resistance, Bardic Music, Ethereal Form, Hide Presence, Possess Object, Control Object, Animate Object, Possess Creature, Control Creature, Alternate Form, Fiend’s Favor, Suggestion, Mind Shielding, Outsider Wings, Fiendish Graft, Major Creation, Geas, Temptation, Grant Wish, Soul Bargain, Blood Oath, Undetectable Alignment, Locate Cultist, Transfer Spell-Like Ability, Sponsor Worshiper, Scry on Cultist, Torture Cultist. Possessions: Chain Shirt, Rapier.
Critical Milestones of Level Distribution
Levels 1-2: Hexblade – Establishes the foundation with curses and arcane resistance.
Level 3: Bard – Introduces Bardic Music and knowledge abilities for greater control.
Levels 4-9: Fiend of Possession – Grants ethereal form and the power to possess objects and creatures.
Levels 10-15: Fiend of Corruption – Enhances the ability to manipulate and corrupt others.
Levels 16-20: Fiend of Blasphemy – Maximizes leadership and intimidation, commanding respect and fear.
Equipment Progression for Hexblade Cult Leader
Level Range
Item
Details
Why
Early Levels
Cloak of Charisma +2
Increases Charisma by +2.
Enhances the effectiveness of curses and Bardic Music.
(Levels 1-5)
Leather Armor
Light armor with a +2 armor bonus.
Keeps the Hexblade mobile and protected in combat.
Rapier
Finesse weapon that allows use of Dexterity for attack rolls.
Complements the Hexblade’s combat style and maximizes damage potential.
Wand of Cure Light Wounds
50 charges of Cure Light Wounds.
Essential for healing in early levels.
Mid-Campaign
Rod of the Pact Keeper +1
Increases spell attack rolls and the saving throw DCs of your warlock spells by +1.
Enhances spellcasting abilities.
(Levels 6-10)
Cloak of Charisma +4
Increases Charisma by +4.
Further boosts the effectiveness of curses and Bardic Music.
Ring of Protection +2
Provides a +2 deflection bonus to AC.
Enhances overall defense.
Wand of Dispel Magic
50 charges of Dispel Magic.
Essential for removing magical effects that hinder the Hexblade or allies.
Late Game
Mantle of Spell Resistance
Grants Spell Resistance 21.
Provides significant protection against enemy spells.
(Levels 11-15)
Ring of Mind Shielding
Immunity to detect thoughts, discern lies, and alignment detection.
Protects against detection and manipulation.
Amulet of Health +4
Increases Constitution by +4.
Boosts hit points and Fortitude saves.
Final Ascent
Crystal Ball
Allows scrying with True Seeing.
Essential for gathering information and planning.
(Levels 16-20)
Staff of Power
Grants a variety of powerful spells and a +2 enhancement bonus to AC and saving throws.
Provides both offensive and defensive capabilities.
Cloak of Charisma +6
Increases Charisma by +6.
Maximizes the effectiveness of curses and Bardic Music.
Robe of the Archmagi
Provides spell resistance, +5 resistance bonus on all saving throws, and +2 armor bonus to AC.
Offers significant protection and boosts spellcasting power.
Combat Scenarios for the Hexblade Cult Leader
Dungeon Encounters
Strategic Hexblade’s Curse
Identify and curse the most dangerous enemies to cripple their effectiveness.
Survival Gear and Positioning
Equip defensive items like light shields and leather armor.
Position yourself in spots that maximize your curses and spells.
Open Field Strategy
Choke Point Control
Identify and exploit natural choke points with control spells.
Bardic Support and Mobility
Use Bardic Music to boost allies’ combat effectiveness.
Stay mobile and avoid direct confrontation.
Countering Ambushes
Immediate Ethereal Form
Cast Ethereal Form to avoid initial damage and assess the ambush.
Hide and Reposition
Use Hide Presence to disappear from enemy view.
Move to a strategic position for counter-attacks or support.
Defensive Stands
Maximizing Arcane Resistance
Absorb incoming spells with Arcane Resistance.
Bardic Inspiration and Curses
Use Bardic Music to strengthen allies’ resolve.
Apply Hexblade’s Curse to key enemies to reduce their threat level.
Urban Encounters
Stealth and Ambush
Use Darkstalker feat to move unseen through urban environments.
Environmental Advantage
Leverage buildings, alleys, and rooftops for cover and strategic positioning.
Party Synergy for the Hexblade Cult Leader
The Cult Leader build is not just about personal power—it’s about elevating the entire party. Your curses weaken foes, making them easier for your allies to defeat. Your bardic abilities provide much-needed boosts to morale and effectiveness.
Maximizing Team Dynamics
Communication is key. Always keep your party informed of your plans and abilities. Let them know how you can support them, whether it’s through buffs, debuffs, or control spells.
Encourage your allies to funnel enemies into your traps. With your Fiend of Possession and Fiend of Corruption abilities, you can turn the environment and even enemies into weapons for your team.
Strategic Class Combinations for Enhanced Cohesion
Pair your Cult Leader with classes that can capitalize on the chaos you create. Rogues and Rangers benefit from the distractions you provide, while spellcasters can take advantage of the openings to land devastating spells.
Communication and Collaboration for Infiltration and Manipulation
Use your abilities to infiltrate enemy ranks and sew discord. Share your insights with your team so they can strike precisely and effectively. Your Leadership feat isn’t just for NPCs; it’s for guiding your party to victory.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Weakness
Counter
Limited Direct Damage Output
– Focus on enabling allies to deal damage through support and control spells. – Utilize items that enhance allies’ abilities, such as Rod of Splendor for morale bonuses or Amulet of Teamwork.
Vulnerability to Holy Magic
– Use Arcane Resistance to boost saves against holy magic. – Seek protective gear like a Cloak of Resistance +3 to further enhance saves. – Acquire a Ring of Spell Turning to reflect harmful spells.
Dependency on Charisma
– Equip items that boost Charisma, such as a Headband of Charisma +6. – Use spells like Eagle’s Splendor to temporarily increase Charisma. – Carry Potions of Eagle’s Splendor for emergencies.
Complexity of Abilities
– Practice and plan strategies in advance to maximize skillset effectiveness. – Use Pearl of Power to recall used spells and have a backup plan. – Maintain detailed notes on abilities and their uses.
Requirement for Preparation
– Take time to scout and study enemies to tailor curses and control spells. – Use Divination spells like Augury to gain insights before encounters. – Equip a Crystal Ball for scrying enemies.
Limited Physical Strength
– Focus on Dexterity-based combat with Weapon Finesse. – Equip a Mithral Rapier to maximize attack effectiveness with Dexterity. – Wear Gloves of Dexterity +4 to enhance Dexterity further.
Low Hit Points
– Use Amulet of Health +6 to boost Constitution and increase hit points. – Cast False Life for temporary hit points. – Keep Potions of Cure Serious Wounds for emergency healing.
Dependence on Spell Slots
– Use Rod of Absorption to absorb and store enemy spells for later use. – Equip Pearl of Power to recall spent spells. – Carry Scrolls of Key Spells for additional casting options.
Limited Mobility in Combat
– Use Boots of Striding and Springing to enhance mobility. – Cast Dimension Door or Teleport for quick repositioning. – Carry a Ring of Blink to avoid attacks and move freely.
Roleplaying Themes
Roleplaying a Hexblade Cult Leader is a rich and rewarding experience. Your character is not just a combatant but a schemer and a leader, with deep ties to the darker forces of the world.
Besides that, the roleplaying aspect of the Hexblade Cult Leader allows you to delve into a character with a complex moral compass. Your heritage as a Tiefling and your chosen path of darkness give you a unique perspective on the world and its power structures.
Embrace the shadows and let your influence spread like a silent plague, bending others to your will with a mix of fear, respect, and arcane might. Your character’s backstory should be as intriguing as their abilities, filled with pacts made in hushed tones and ambitions that reach into the very heart of the abyss.
As a Tiefling, your character’s demonic ancestry will affect how the world perceives them. Use this to your advantage, playing into the fears and superstitions of NPCs to manipulate situations in your favor.
Moreover, your dark heritage can open doors that are closed to others. Secret societies and cults may see you as a natural ally or even a leader, providing you with resources, followers, and hidden knowledge. However, be wary, for such alliances can come with their own dangers and entanglements.
The ideal scenario is one where you can use your influence and control abilities to their fullest. This might be a situation where you can turn the tide of battle with a well-placed curse, or manipulate the environment to create chaos among your enemies. Your goal is to weaken foes before they even reach you, allowing your allies to finish them off with ease.
How does The-Cult-Leader synergize in a diverse party?
Your abilities complement those of your teammates, allowing for a dynamic and effective group. These curses debilitate enemies, making them easier targets for your allies. Your bardic music and leadership skills provide buffs that enhance the party’s overall performance.
Coordinate with spellcasters to combine your curses with their spells for devastating effects.
Work with stealthy characters like rogues to set up ambushes while you distract and confuse the enemy.
Use your knowledge skills to assist the party in navigating social encounters and unraveling mysteries.
To address your weaknesses, you must be prepared. Ensure you have a variety of equipment and spells to counteract any resistance you encounter. Keep a low profile when necessary and use your minions to gather information and protect yourself from direct threats. Always have an escape plan, and don’t be afraid to use your ethereal abilities to avoid a fight you can’t win.
Are there any specific traditions or rituals to follow while roleplaying The Cult Leader[1]?
As a character steeped in dark arts and leadership, your rituals and traditions should reflect your connection to the infernal powers. You might have specific phrases you utter when casting curses, or you may require a token of fealty from those you dominate. Perhaps you observe esoteric holidays or perform sacrifices to bolster your power.
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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?
“What was that thing?” The man inquired desperately to the elder brother, as they departed the scene of battle.
“That was a fraction of the problem we are dealing with right now. Hence why we need to ask your … wife … questions.”
“You don’t think she’s affiliated with that do you?“
“No, but she definitely knows what’s up.”
Shortly afterwards, they entered the Inn. Whereinn a beautiful woman was serving customers.
“Honey, we need to talk,” the man intoned.
She raised her head towards her husband and noticed his friends. A wicked smile crossed her face.
“Of course, let’s go upstairs.“
Arriving in the private room, she locked the door behind them with a quick turn of the latch. With the same smirk on her face, she turned towards the group.
“So, what’s going on?“
Before her husband could talk, the elder brother replied.
“I would like to have this conversation face to face if you don’t mind. “
Hearing this, her smile grew yet more, “He’s clever, I like him.”
The woman’s body fell to the ground, unconscious. Next to her fallen form, a female Tiefling with dark red, leathery wings, and a vicious hooked tail stood tall. She smelled of the stench of the abyss, with a hint of sulfur emanating from her.
“You’re as beautiful as ever honey.“
-“You flatterer. Now speak mortal, I don’t have eternity here…“
Race
Tiefling+Ritual of Alignment
Class
Hexblade 2/Bard 1/Fiend of Possession 6/Fiend of Corruption 6/Fiend of Blasphemy 5 (1 LA Buyback)
Yep. You are playing, what’s essentially, a Succubus. There’s a bit of a need to shenanigan the Ritual of Alignment to get the Evil Subtype. If your GM allows it from the get go, however, its fine.
Otherwise a DC 20 Knowledge(Religion) check lets you know about Pazuzu appearing if you say his name three time in succession to grant you a wish. There ya go.
You are the perfect infiltrator and social character, capable of bluffing, intimidating and persuading your way in and out of most situations. All the while still remaining a more than capable combatant.
You can buff your allies with Fiendish Grafts and even grant them wishes. Furthermore you’re able to share your spell-like abilities, and possess other creatures to fight for you. A ridiculously strong build.
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