Blaze of the Righteous
0-level (Cantrip) Evocation
Casting Time: 1 bonus action
Range/Area: Self
Components: V, S, M
Materials: a melee weapon worth at least 1 sp
Duration: 1 round
Damage/Effect: fire
Upon casting Blaze of the Righteous, you invoke the purifying power of the Cleansing Flame, causing your melee weapon to become sheathed in flickering flames that are cool to the touch and shine with divine light. The next time you hit a creature with a melee weapon attack before the spell ends, the target suffers the weapon's usual effects, and you can invoke the flame to deal an extra 1d8 fire damage to the target. This fire is divine and purifying, burning only the wicked; it does not ignite flammable objects.
Additionally, if the target is a creature known for its evil nature (such as demons, devils, undead, or any creature at the DM's discretion that is particularly vile), it must succeed on a Constitution saving throw against your spell save DC or be frightened of you until the end of your next turn as the divine flame illuminates the righteousness of your cause.
At Higher Levels: The spell's extra damage increases by 1d8 when you reach 5th level (2d8), 11th level (3d8), and 17th level (4d8).
Special Notes: Blaze of the Righteous serves as a symbolic manifestation of the Cleansing Flame's commitment to eradicating evil through purification and justice. The spell's ability to cause fear in creatures of evil nature highlights the power of righteousness and the moral clarity that followers of the Cleansing Flame bring to their confrontations with darkness. This cantrip combines the physical prowess of the wielder with their spiritual dedication, making it a favorite among clerics and paladins who walk the path of the Cleansing Flame.