Thunder Master
What it is
The Thunder Master fights at a quick, even tempo and punishes groups that bunch up. Its signature plants lightning rods around you, and the bolts jump between allies who stand too close. It has 26 named techniques. It raises its guard after every third attack.
At the start of the trial it tells you its lesson: it plants three rods, so leave each circle before its bolt, and never crowd an ally.
How to get it
Sneak and use a wandering duelist who breathes Thunder, or type /master challenge thunder. You need Aura Form or Heart Circle VIII. See Sword Masters for the full trial rules.
Thunder students gather at the Wind Gate, a hall it shares with Gale. Look for it in windswept hills, forests and savannas. To reach it, climb the posts. See Masters sites.
Thunder Chain
Three lightning rods that strike one after another. The banner reads “Leave the rod circles and spread out from allies.”
- The Master uses it when you’re 2 to 8 blocks away. It stands still while it casts.
- It plants one rod under you and one 3.5 blocks to each side of you, across its line of aim.
- Each rod has a circle with a 1.6-block radius, marked by a pale ring and a vertical line.
- The rods strike in turn at about 1.8, 2.1 and 2.4 seconds.
- A strike deals 24 damage before armor. One chain can strike each challenger only once.
- The bolt jumps. Anyone within 2.5 blocks of a struck player is hit too.
Jumping doesn’t help, because the bolt reaches well above the ground. Step out of each circle before its rod strikes, and keep your distance from allies. The Master is open for about 0.8 seconds after the last strike. It can’t use the chain again for 7 seconds.
Other moves
- Techniques: chains of two to four strikes. Wind-ups take about 0.6 seconds, and the Master stays open for 0.7 to 0.8 seconds after each one. Its finisher is Last Thunder. See Reading a Master.
- Pursuit dash: if you hold a spell too long, it may dash up to 4.8 blocks at you, at most once every 7 seconds.
- Crescent volley: it throws flying blades if you stay more than 6 blocks away or well above or below it.
Rewards for a clear
- Your first Thunder clear teaches the Pierce technique part.
- The Thunder Master has no Master Form.
The breathing method
The Master teaches Thunder Breath, a storm method. Sparks from coated blows jump to a nearby foe. Its arts unlock as your Aura grows:
| Stage | Art |
|---|---|
| Glow | Crackle |
| Flow | Skyfall |
| Edge | Static Riposte (a counter) |
| Form | Bolt Step |
| Sovereign | Heaven’s Spear |
Full details are on Breathing methods.
Tips and counterplay
- The middle rod is always under you, so your first move is always off the spot you’re standing on.
- The side rods sit across the Master’s aim. A step toward or away from the Master often clears all three.
- In a group, spread out before the chain starts. Two players side by side share every bolt.
- The Thunder Master guards after every third attack. Flank it or use an axe.