Post/Author/DateTime	Post
JackRipper 12-26-04, 09:43 PM	Well, I'm trying to create a monk/druid character. I am aware of the PHB stating that monks have restrictions concerning multiclassing, but I have consulted my DM and he agreed that if I create a good background to support the idea he would disregard the restrictions. Why did I want to play this type of multiclass so readily? Because I wanted to think about what would happen when a character gets born in a druid grove and raised as such, but then leaves of his own volation and joins a monastery of monks. You need not worry about how it could have come to be that this character has been part of both these 'philosophies': my background already explains that quite well, though I see no need to post it here entirely. Why? Cause my question is about something else. I have not yet designed the exact characteristics of the ways of this particular druid grove and of this particular monastery. So my questions to you are: do you have any great ideas about the more detailed philosophies of druids and monks? I know druids seek to protect nature and strive for balance in the world, but hey, if that's their entire approach to life then why do people call them the in general wise and studied men? They must have more, like written books of wisdom etc. The same for monks: so at a monastery they teach personal perfection, but what then IS personal perfection? It can't be just to learn the hardest way to kick someone in the balls, right? What would the tutors tell their student monks when they inspire them to their commitment? Also, I'm aware that it could be possible that different monasteries or druid groves would have different views. Do you have any good ideas for such specific monasteries or groves? And last, but not least, what would happen when a single character has spend enough time with both of these groups and their approaches to life, and has learned to respect both? (Take into consideration that my character starts at age 49 as a human, so this is quite possible I think) My general idea on this last question is that monks focus more inward, trying to find balance in their body and soul and thereby gain powers, while druids try to focus outward, trying to use their powers to create balance in their surroundings. This would surely create conflicts, or not? Just tell me your thoughts on those subjects, and I'll be very thankful, cause I need inspiration for creating the approach to life for my character. -JackRipper
Iron_Peanut 12-28-04, 03:09 AM	Well, I'm trying to create a monk/druid character. I am aware of the PHB stating that monks have restrictions concerning multiclassing, but I have consulted my DM and he agreed that if I create a good background to support the idea he would disregard the restrictions. You can get around this quickly and legally with the Monastic Training feat (and a LN alignment) out of Eberron Campaign Setting. It's setting-neutral so no worries. They must have more, like written books of wisdom etc. Not as I understand it. Most of the druidic principles and traditions are passed down through ritual. Which are held in Druidic, which no one but druids speak. Any kind of published material would be in violation of the crazy level of secrecy with which the durids apparantly enjoy so much. When the idea of two different methods/religions coming together arises, I look towards Japan. Only place in the world where most of the population practices two or more religions per person. You'll have a Shinto new year, a Christian wedding, and a Buddist funeral. So, consider that druidism advocates living in harmony with the natural world. Whatever faith was advocated at the monestary advoctes preparing oneself for the next world. Monks focus on perfection, and nature is such a conspicuously perfect (as in balanced) system that there must be something there that the monk would see worthy of study or emulation.