Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Callorissi 01-20-04, 10:10 AM	Hello: I really enjoy playing this Human Swashbuckler - 3/ Sorc - 3 character. He uses his spells for defense and the odd magic missle. (This is from memory, so be kind if I forget something) My stats are: ST 16 IN 16 WS 10 DE 20 CO 14 CH 19 Comliness 17 (we use this stat as it alters interactions with members of the opposite sex). My feats are: Weapon Finesse (for free) Dodge Two Weapon Fighting Combat Expertise The character uses a Masterwork Rapier and a +1 Short Sword. His spells are: Mage Armour, Shield, Magic Missile My question is: Since I will be going up next level as a Sorc (still get +1 BAB and a 2nd Level Spell). What spell would be most useful? The party has a Barb 5/Rogue 1, Rogue 7, Cleric 6, and Mage 4. I am the very hard to hit 2nd Fighter who does decent damage. I lean towards Cat's Grace (+2 AC and +2 to hit ). Our party is a hit and run group (heavy on the hit, then run if needed). To give you an idea of my style of play: I am very brash and use a very high tumble to my advantage. The craziest thing I ever did was have myself lowered out of a Rope Trick to Magic Missle a Dire Bear in our camp. (Worked well the first 3 times, but I got bit on the fourth attempt). I am the last to run from a fight and usually have to tumble to safety. What would you recommend for my ONE 2nd level spell?
Gilrion 01-20-04, 10:37 AM	Other options: Mirror Image is a staple defense spell Alter Self has many uses both in and out of combat, but it may not suit your style to polymorph into something for the natural armor Invisibility should help with the ambushes Resist Energy now lasts longer and protects better Cat's Grace also grants you +2 to initiative, besides the benefits you've mentioned. Doesn't last much in 3.5, though, and is superceeded by a magical item you will undoubtedly get sooner or later Hope it helps
Callorissi 01-20-04, 10:53 AM	Thanks for the reply. Alter Self was my usual first 2nd level spell because flight is so handy. I like the idea of altering into something for the natural armour bonus, but the fact that you can now only alter into another humanoid makes the pickings slim. I do not have the new MM 3.5 yet, so if someone can list a few of the forms that a human can alter into (and maybe one benefit), it may pull me back towards picking my old favourite ALTER SELF.
Snow Savant 01-20-04, 12:40 PM	Phaerlock from the Underdark book gives you Natural Armor +7. And that's nothing to sneeze at. The Troglodyte (MM) gives you N.A. +6, but much better racial skills (especially if underground). So if you claim you are "hard to hit" now, with Alter Self you'll get even more crazy-go-nuts hard to hit.