| Post/Author/DateTime | Post |
|---|---|
| Frobi-Wan Kenobi06-23-06, 02:04 PM | Alain - Breasthide Shifter Barbarian While not the most fitting PC for what we've heard about the faction I think that he'll fit right in after a couple levels. |
| indel200106-24-06, 03:56 PM | I'm going to play a Psiforged Psychic Warrior courtesy of the A FORGED APART campaign card. I think the curiousity of the Psiforged race, as described in Magic of Eberron, will fit in nicely with the CCodex. I don't think the Shifter Barbarian is all that clunky a fit. A Codex mission is definitely going to require at least one heavy, but dumb ones or players who play them dumb might run into some serious problems. Had a chance to playtest Factionmaster Merwin's intro mod and the Psychic Warrior had his uses, albeit the sneaky guys had more opportunities to ...welll....uh..be sneaky. |
| Frobi-Wan Kenobi06-25-06, 10:33 PM | After giving it some more thought I've decided to change to a Psiforged Telepath Psion named Link |
| tilloch06-26-06, 01:16 AM | Thanks for the great starter thread Frobi-wan. Hmm... Seems like there are going to be some Psiforged already, but another Tank never hurts. I saw the list of classes available for this faction and decided right away. Totemist. Not sure what race yet, but I'm fascinated by this class. Steve Deis |
| Marcus Majarra06-26-06, 11:46 PM | My character for the Crimson Codex will be far more interested in making sure the ancient knowledge concerning the Caldyn Fragments (as well as anything else recovered from Xen'drik) does not fall into the wrong hands. Quite simply, it's a Shifter druid who will be turning Moonspeaker, who follows the Gatekeeper tradition. |
| smerwin2906-27-06, 10:54 AM | So far I have seen a lot of good choices. While it is true that the faction and the adventures will place a profound significance on knowledge, that will include all kinds of knowledge, not just arcane. Having knowledge of the natural (and unnatural) world will certainly be valuable. And this is, after all, a D&D Campaign, so having a character that can deal damage never hurts, although I hope to de-emphasize combat as much as I can while still being called D&D. Shawn Crimson Codex Factionmaster Guy |
| Lightblade06-30-06, 03:28 PM | in that case, I'd better wait on my first idea until I get my hands on an Adventuring Prodigy card (can't make it to Indy, might go to So Cal and will most likely head down to Winter Fantasy). My plan was a shifter Druid -> Barbarian -> Totemist -> Totem Rager. Unfortunately, the current build will leave him at 7 int, and the creation card would bump it up to 10, which for a shifter is respectable. Another idea i've been throwing around: Warforged Incarnate, a character trying to answer the question of Warforged and souls. |
| RatShifter06-30-06, 07:02 PM | What do you guys think of the Mindspy? I have a pretty cool idea in mind to build one, but need to find out if they are even available. |
| sentinelmarshal07-01-06, 06:22 PM | Considering the focus on knowledge, I am most strongly contemplating a Gnome Bard. Not yet sure about expansions - but I plan on playing and/or running games for each faction... |
| sentinelmarshal07-01-06, 06:25 PM | Another idea i've been throwing around: Warforged Incarnate, a character trying to answer the question of Warforged and souls. I have to say, this idea intrigues me - a good idea for a unique char from a RP POV. |
| MysticRhythms07-04-06, 08:37 AM | There were just so many options for this faction. It was my hardest choice. In the end, I really wanted to get a free Glyphbook and have it useful and to have an intriguing support character with lots of options. Changeling Bard. And I had an absolute blast playing him in the first faction adventure already. |
| Misroi07-04-06, 06:24 PM | Before the faction information was released, I was wanting to make a shifter druid for the campaign; now that it's out, I'm thinking his best fit would be here. I guess he's a bit more introspective than I originally thought. |
| Mike Czaplinski07-07-06, 01:10 PM | I'm going with a Kalashtar Wilder (I have the People of Mind, Matter and Radiance card). It's interesting that I'm not the only one who's playing a psi in this faction. Of all the characters I've made for XE, this is one that I'm not so comfortable with: I've not played a psi before, and the burning of 3 AP's for the Creation card inspired me to take the Heroic Spirit feat to make up for it. But, my general concept is that he's a Kalashtar who was raised on Xen'drik in isolation from his people, so that will make my lack of comfort and familiarity work for me. MikeC |
| Lightblade07-07-06, 01:35 PM | I'm going with a Kalashtar Wilder (I have the People of Mind, Matter and Radiance card). It's interesting that I'm not the only one who's playing a psi in this faction. Of all the characters I've made for XE, this is one that I'm not so comfortable with: I've not played a psi before, and the burning of 3 AP's for the Creation card inspired me to take the Heroic Spirit feat to make up for it. But, my general concept is that he's a Kalashtar who was raised on Xen'drik in isolation from his people, so that will make my lack of comfort and familiarity work for me. MikeC If you haven't played a psi before, be very careful in your power selection, since you get so few. Many seem to go for Energy Ray at first level, since it is very versatile. |
| Mike Czaplinski07-07-06, 02:34 PM | If you haven't played a psi before, be very careful in your power selection, since you get so few. Many seem to go for Energy Ray at first level, since it is very versatile. You read my mind...... Or my character sheet. Though I did almost take Mind Thrust or Inertial Armor, Energy Ray seemed to be the most useful of the 1st level Psion/Wilder powers to take when you get only one. In trying to read the character descriptions in XPH, it looked like the Wilder was the one that requires the least amount of paperwork and fuss, which is always a good thing when starting something new (and something I always go for with RPGA characters; I guess that's why I've always gravitated to sorcerer and bard in other games). MikeC |
| Lightblade07-10-06, 01:49 PM | Now my thinking rests with a changling. Either i'll go rogue->psion->shadowmind, or wizard->recaster. I think each choice would filt quite well with what we've heard about the faction thus far. |
| Harliquinn07-10-06, 04:39 PM | I plan to dive headlong into the dragon fray and choose a Dragon Shaman. I'm debating on one level of barbarian for the bennies of movement, weapon selection, skill boost, rage (increases DC of breath weapon), and just the coolness factor. |
| Takasi07-10-06, 06:15 PM | Going to use a snooty, flamboyant bookworm from Morgrave University, using all of the stereotypes from RoD to play him as a fancy lad who detests violence (though don't ask him how he learned to use a whip, you probably don't want to know). Loramont Marovore (aka 'The Spectator' aka 'The Spectacle' aka 'Witness to the Prophecy's Unfolding') NG Male Spellscale bard 1 Medium humanoid (dragon blooded) Init +1; Senses Spot +0, Listen +0 Languages Common, Draconic, Giant ---------------------------------- AC 15, touch 11, flat-footed 14 hp 6 (1 HD) Fort +0, Ref +3, Will +2 ---------------------------------- Spd 30 ft Melee +0 Sap (1d6 nonlethal) Ranged +1 Whip (1d3 nonlethal) or +1 shortbow (1d6) Reach 5' (15' w/whip) Atk Options Trip (w/whip), Disarm (+2 w/whip) Base Atk +0, Grp +0 Spells (CL 1st, +1 ranged touch) 0 (2/day) - Daze, Detect Magic, Know Direction, Read Magic ---------------------------------- Abilities Str 10, Dex 13, Con 10, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 16 Feats Research Skills Decipher Script +6, Gather Information +7, Knowledge (history) +6, Knowledge (local) +6, Knowledge (geography) +6, Knowledge (architecture and engineering) +6, Perform +7, Use Magic Device +7 Possessions Combat Gear, Studded Leather, Light Wooden Shield, Shortbow, Quiver with 20 arrows, Crimson Glyphbook (+1 on all knowledge checks, can be used as research library for circumstance bonuses to knowledge checks) |
| PrinceOfBoredom07-16-06, 08:17 AM | Well, prior to the campaign standards I was leaning towards a Gnomish Cleric of Aureon. But, since I don't have any campaign cards (being new to MoH and Xe'ndrik) I fiugre I might as well take advantage of the 'special' options available, so am probably gonna go with a Spellscale Sorcerer with the substitution level. |
| duncansalazar07-19-06, 12:54 AM | Well, I guess after my girlfriend got the "Child of Vulkoor" CC, I decided to be a Drow Wizard. A Female one, since I believe there isn't this "female=cleric, male=wizard" thing from Frealms in Eberron. I believe Secrets of Xen'driks will solve this mystery. Until then, I stick to the drow... |
| duncansalazar07-19-06, 01:03 AM | Well, prior to the campaign standards I was leaning towards a Gnomish Cleric of Aureon. But, since I don't have any campaign cards (being new to MoH and Xe'ndrik) I fiugre I might as well take advantage of the 'special' options available, so am probably gonna go with a Spellscale Sorcerer with the substitution level. Howdy... Why dontcha get to GEn Con front door? There are lost of guys theres trying to exchange CCards. Maybe you got something they want. That's how I started mine collection. Heh, just an idea... Hope you like it though. |
| clem07-19-06, 01:45 AM | I'm considering a half-elven ranger, going into exorcist of the Silver Flame. The bonus Knowledge skills would aid in fulfilling the prestige class requirements and he would end up brandishing a very mean double-bladed sword as his choosen weapon. |
| Harliquinn07-26-06, 08:59 AM | Well my original character concept is pretty much null and void now. I'd wanted a barbarian/dragon shaman from argonessen. I just re-read the V.0.0 of the standards to find Argonessen/Seren are restricted regions of origin for some reason. Back to the drawing board. |
| clem07-29-06, 04:10 AM | Well, after some consideration I've decided to drop the Exorcist of the Silver Flame and opt instead for the following build. It's on the level of detail normally reserved for the Character Optimization board -- however, I'm posting it here because I'm more concerned with how it follows the XE character creation guidelines than munchcanism. Perhaps a XE character build board where each character concept can have its own thread is called for? In any case, the character is intended to be a plot driver that keeps the adventure from getting bogged down. He bluffs past problem NPCs, finds and disarms traps, opens locked doors, discovers vital clues and has a fairly wide assortment of arcane spells for the odd emergency. I'm also hoping he can hold his own in a combat scenario. ___________________________ Name: Wik Race: Changeling Faction: Crimson Codex Faction Bonus Skills: Knowledge(Arcana), Knowledge(Dungeoneering), Knowledge(Nobility and royalty) Region of Origin: Aundair Campaign Cards Required: Aundairian Arcanist, Uncommon Changeling Racial Favored Class: Rogue Secondary Favored Class: Spellthief Stats: Str 9, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 10 1 Changeling Rogue(1) Investigate; +1d6 SA; Bonus skills 2 Rogue(2) Evasion 3 Changeling Wizard(1) Scribe Scroll(B); Practised Spellcaster(3); Favored Schools: Illus, Ench; Forbidden Schools: Necr, Evoc, Abjur; Familiar: Rat (+2 Fort) 4 Wizard(2) 5 Wizard(3) 6 Spellthief(1) Weapon Finesse(6); +2d6 SA; Trapfinding; Steal Spell 7 Wizard(4) 8 Wizard(5) Extraordinary Artisan(B) 9 Changeling Rogue(3) Great Fortitude(9); +3d6 SA; Bonus Skills 10 Arcane Trickster(1) Ranged legerdemain 1/day 11 Arcane Trickster(2) +4d6 SA 12 Arcane Trickster(3) Impromptu SA 1/day; Silent Spell(12) 13 Arcane Trickster(4) +5d6 SA 14 Arcane Trickster(5) Ranged legerdemain 2/day 15 Arcane Trickster(6) +6d6 SA; Quicken Spell(15) 16 Arcane Trickster(7) Impromptu SA 2/day 17 Arcane Trickster(8) +7d6 SA 18 Arcane Trickster(9) Ranged legerdemain 3/day; Craft Wand(18) 19 Arcane Trickster(10) +8d6 SA 20 Wizard(6) Comments welcome... |
| Herrbard07-29-06, 09:02 AM | In any case, the character is intended to be a plot driver that keeps the adventure from getting bogged down. He bluffs past problem NPCs, finds and disarms traps, opens locked doors, discovers vital clues and has a fairly wide assortment of arcane spells for the odd emergency. I'm also hoping he can hold his own in a combat scenario. Comments welcome... I like at so much I'm thinking of stealing it... I've already got the changling rogue started, but I never thought of it past the first few levels. This looks like a fun build! |
| clem07-31-06, 05:05 PM | I like at so much I'm thinking of stealing it... I've already got the changling rogue started, but I never thought of it past the first few levels. This looks like a fun build! Thanks, I hope it is fun. I've been tweaking it a bit, particularly as concerns the feats: 1. Investigate 3. Scribe Scroll (B), Practiced Spellcaster 6. Point Blank Shot 8. Silent Spell (B) 9. Precise Shot 12. Rapid Reload (or Quick Draw) 15. Great Fortitude 18. Quicken Spell I yanked Weapon Finesse as a d4 hp character has no business in melee. Rather, he should have a concealable ranged weapon (such as a hand crossbow or thrown daggers) and try to flank from a distance. The one thing I'm really uneasy with is the Investigate feat. It's really gambling on the campaign adventures providing enough opportunities to use it. In Mark of Heroes there's really only been a couple of adventures that I'm aware of that took advantage of the feat. Any non-spoiler insight as to whether this feat is worth delaying the ranged attack feat tree? I'm wondering whether to yank Investigate and start the ranged tree earlier, possibly putting in Spontaneous Caster as the 9th level feat. |
| Lightblade07-31-06, 05:30 PM | If you've got the card, you can always stick in Amateur Inquisitive. Hopefully a mod won't have more than one or two crime scenes to investigate. |
| Naarg08-01-06, 12:23 AM | And to think at one time I thought my changeling rogue might be the only non-spellcaster at the table. It's starting to look like we'll have groups of 6 of them... :D |
| clem08-01-06, 03:24 AM | If you've got the card, you can always stick in Amateur Inquisitive. Hopefully a mod won't have more than one or two crime scenes to investigate. Hey, that's not a bad idea. In fact, I have an Amateur Inquisitive card lying around. Thanks for the idea. Here's the revised feat selection: 1. Point Blank Shot 3. Practiced Spellcaster, Scribe Scroll (B) 6. Precise Shot 8. Silent Spell (B) 9. Great Fortitude 12. Rapid Reload 15. Quicken Spell 18. Spontaneous Caster |
| bertman408-03-06, 05:25 PM | Well my original character concept is pretty much null and void now. I'd wanted a barbarian/dragon shaman from argonessen. I just re-read the V.0.0 of the standards to find Argonessen/Seren are restricted regions of origin for some reason. Back to the drawing board. Looks like you're in luck with v1.0 of the Campaign Standards. Seren is allowed region for Crimson Codex! Bertman |
| clem08-03-06, 05:32 PM | Well, looks like the newly released campaign documents put a kink in my character plans. Using "Audairian Arcanist" to unlock the Spellthief as a secondary favored class is now officially ruled out. I'd hoped to be able to fit this in as it gives the build the following benefits: 1. Gives trapfinding, which is sacrificed with the first Changeling Rogue level. 2. Offers some extra Sneak Attack oomph right when most Arcane Trickster builds are in their doldrums. Now I'm considering my options: 1. Substitute Artificer for Spellthief at 6th level. This would give the character the ability to find and disarm traps > DC20, but otherwise doesn't offer a lot of synergy to the build. 2. Substitute two levels of Rogue with levels of Spellthief. This works, although it loses the character Evasion and a lot of skill points. I'm not certain that the additional Spellthief abilities are worth it. 3. Take the level of Spellthief at 12th level. This would commit to three levels of Arcane Trickster beforehand, by which time the character is pretty much out of the aforementioned doldrums. Could be worth it, though. 4. Leave out Spellthief altogether. Given my experiences with MoH, most of my levels will probably be awarded through level bumps, which means some of the doldrums are going to be skipped altogether. Character doesn't get trapfinding, but RPGA modules have so far been very sparse with the traps. Hmm... Well, tough design choices are part of the reason I like this game. :-) BTW, I apologize if anyone feels I'm hijacking this thread. I'll happily continue this (and other character build ideas) in another thread if that'd be appropriate for this forum. Perhaps a XE Character Build forum open to all the factions could be created? |
| araelethe08-03-06, 10:05 PM | I am working on a Warforged Dragon Shaman, focusing on the Copper Dragon totem (though Brass is still an option). As Eberron is a world comprised of the three dragons and warforged are integral to Eberron's martial history, it seemed an appropriate combination, albeit a bizarre one. I am also working on a warforged druid for the faction, working toward the landforged walker in the Secrets of Xen'drik sourcebook. A little more straightforward. Now, which one will I play? |
| Cainin08-04-06, 08:25 AM | I'm planning on a Drow (Green Dargon) Dragon Shaman that will likely prestige into Scorpion Heritor. Though it seems that most of the drow players are playing on being Cabals. |
| Dragon_Watcher08-04-06, 01:29 PM | Hey, I am really new to all of this, and Gen Con will be my first event. It seems to me that paries are going to need some stealth and mobility skills on hand. With so many players creating such cool Thumpers and Spell casters, I thought a small character who might just be underestimated could be fun to try. I got the idea out of Races of the Dragon in the Kobolds of Eberron sidebar, and looking at the Kobold Rogue racial substitution levels. It seemed like a natural fit for the Crimson Codex, but I am not completely sure on how to get it done. I hope everything that I am thinking will be allowed. I would appreciate any insight from the boards. |
| smerwin2908-04-06, 01:41 PM | Someone please correct me if I am wrong on this. I love kobolds, but I don't think there is any card or other sources that unlocks kobolds. Otherwise I think it would be a great PC! |
| Harliquinn08-04-06, 01:55 PM | You can technically make a kobold from the Fast Play (if they are allowed in the Character Creation pull down online). There is a Fast Play Kobold Wizard, and assuming XE allows the same Fast Plays, you could by a very careful selection of choices, be able to use the Fast Play as your character creation card, choose "RACE AS DEFINED ON CARD" and then pick whatever class you want. I'm not sure if this is 100% legal but it should work. If Kobolds were unlocked by something, I would certainly have one :) Harli |
| Skerrit08-04-06, 02:11 PM | There is no kobold wizard fastplay for XE. |
| Harliquinn08-04-06, 02:15 PM | Oh, the MoH Fast Plays are not included? Okay well that makes it impossible then as far as I know. |
| clem08-04-06, 06:46 PM | I am working on a Warforged Dragon Shaman, focusing on the Copper Dragon totem (though Brass is still an option). As Eberron is a world comprised of the three dragons and warforged are integral to Eberron's martial history, it seemed an appropriate combination, albeit a bizarre one. I am also working on a warforged druid for the faction, working toward the landforged walker in the Secrets of Xen'drik sourcebook. A little more straightforward. Now, which one will I play? The druid could be interesting, although the racial wisdom penalty would hurt. If you have Races of Eberron, I'd suggest looking at "Ironwood Body" as your first level feat. I wonder if you could get some synergy with wild shape and the warforged's slam attack. I believe "Improved Natural Attack" and the druid spell "Magic Fang" boost the slam attack. You could also consider taking the "Jaws of Death" feat in Races of Eberron that gives your warforged a bite attack and follow that up with "Improved Multiattack". |
| araelethe08-04-06, 09:14 PM | f you have Races of Eberron, I'd suggest looking at "Ironwood Body" as your first level feat ... You could also consider taking the "Jaws of Death" feat in Races of Eberron that gives your warforged a bite attack and follow that up with "Improved Multiattack". I never purchased Races of Eberron after reading (on the Eberron boards) that it was riddled with errors and contradictions. Kind of wish I didn't read those posts (usually rules lawyers and such). Do you think I should add this to my collection? Sounds like a useful text. Am I straying off topic? Thanks for the input, Clem! |
| clem08-05-06, 03:53 AM | I never purchased Races of Eberron after reading (on the Eberron boards) that it was riddled with errors and contradictions. Kind of wish I didn't read those posts (usually rules lawyers and such). Do you think I should add this to my collection? Sounds like a useful text. Am I straying off topic? Thanks for the input, Clem! I just got my copy a week ago, and so far I've enjoyed it. A number of interesting prestige classes and some decent feats. I'm not a compulsive D&D supplement junkie, but I'd consider this one worth the money. I've been thinking more on the warforged druid as far as feat progression. This would work as either straight druid or you could throw one or two levels of barbarian into the mix. 1. Ironwood Body 3. Jaws of Death 6. Improved Natural Attack (Slam) 9. Second Slam 12. Multiattack 15. Improved Natural Attack (Bite) |
| raalynthslair08-06-06, 02:52 PM | I never purchased Races of Eberron after reading (on the Eberron boards) that it was riddled with errors and contradictions. Kind of wish I didn't read those posts (usually rules lawyers and such). Do you think I should add this to my collection? Sounds like a useful text. Am I straying off topic? Thanks for the input, Clem! I would recommend it. I got it a few weeks ago (I am a HUGE fan of the world, very much like two or three home-brew game worlds I custom made for my game(s)) and I love it. It has a lot of very good information for the casual player and GM alike. I found SOME stuff to be a little contraidictory on the surface, but it appears more like that the earlier books (core book especially) just did a quick "polish over" of things and there was a lot that wasn't detailed very well (and understandably from the size constraints and the scope of the book - and as a "literature work" I understand the phenomena as well; - Look at history books that contain the entire history of Europe compared to one of the history of say the near-history of Europe, or just the socio-poli-ethnic (as the "Races of Eberron" is more like) groups of peoples of Europe... A LOT would seem to be contradicting the "general" ideas of the quick once-over book, but in fact be more accurate in the frame that the data is presented. This is more or less my impression of these rather few incidents in the RoE book (and Player's Guide to Eberron for that matter - a GREAT "this is the world and the KEY THINGS to know as a player" kind of book). But over all, I'd say it's worth it for the key elements of the races and how they are different from the "old school" D&D worlds for players and GMs to read over if nothing else. It does make some nice divisions between what is assumed and what really is; and it makes some nice points about the groups (within thier race and to "outside races") attitudes and opinions of others (like how Halflings that are "city bred" are NOTHING like thier "wild" Talenta-bred kin in many ways; but in other ways they are no different - and they KNOW who is who almost no matter what (kinda like how a Cambridge Bostonian can tell a Charleston Bostonian by their accent when to everyone else it's "North Easterner" (unless you're a NE'er then it's "just a Bostonian") - but you get the idea, I hope). I'd say... on a 1-to-10 scale (10 = :w00t: ) I'd give it probably an 8.5 or so. |
| deguello08-07-06, 02:38 PM | Dragon Shaman But what color to be....... Probably half orc.... No skills for me.... Blue Red or Green |
| dreamwolf08-07-06, 11:50 PM | A quick read-through of ideas here shows me a paucity of divine energy. Druids are wonderfully powerful, and bring much needed knowledge of nature, but I haven't seen a single cleric build plan (unless I missed it.) Thus, I am thinking of creating a cleric of Aureon, figuring that would be the best fit for the Codex. If I take Magic and Knowledge as my domains, it gives me the glyphbook, and allows a fun concept of a holy crusader searching for understanding of the arcane spells he can't cast himself, and thrilled to have the ability to at least use the items created through arcane magics. I can totally see him lecturing the party's arcane casters about how lucky they are to have been given the gift of magical aptitude... Now all I have to do is decide on a race. Do I go with the bitter resentment of a spellscale who can't access the powers others like him toss around effortlessly? A human? A skarn (I have to read up on the skarn, as I never bought Magic of Incarnum . I think any of the three could be a lot of fun. And the cleric component will likely lead to me being a welcome addition at most tables. |
| smerwin2908-08-06, 08:16 AM | One of my local players went with a cleric of Aureon, but I haven't seen a lot of divine casters so far. And I think such a character is a wonderful fit for the Codex. |
| Cainin08-08-06, 08:36 AM | One of my local players went with a cleric of Aureon, but I haven't seen a lot of divine casters so far. And I think such a character is a wonderful fit for the Codex. Well between a Dragon Shaman or two and an Incarnate with the lay on hands soulmeld, your party should be relatively covered for the after combat healing. Though missing the other fix-it spells may cause my local group some issues. |
| smerwin2908-08-06, 09:37 AM | Just as a general reminder about dragon shaman, the vigor aura only helps PCs who are at less than 1/2 their hit points. I have seen this played wrong on more than one occassion, so I just thought I would throw that out there . . . :cool: |
| Harliquinn08-08-06, 09:51 AM | Definitely a good point to make. I'm looking forward to my Dragon Shaman :) I have noticed that Dragon Shamans suffer from Multiple Ability Dependency though *laugh*. I wanted every attribute to be at least 12 when making the character. :D Strength: Dragon Shamans are suppose to be 2nd tier warriors so need to carry all the armor/weapons/shields Dexterity: Not critical but higher AC/Initiative always helps Constitution: Eventual breath weapon DC and HP Intelligence: As a Codex member, I wanted to take advantage of my Knowledge skills Wisdom: Would normally dump this but am trying out Dragon Prophesizer goodness :) (I really like the flavor of the feats) Charisma: Need this for good Touch of Vitality later on I have a couple 'niches' for him to follow, some most depend upon the eventual restricted list for XE. Only 2 more days!! Harliquinn |
| dreamwolf08-08-06, 12:58 PM | I think I've settled on the spellscale, with a 10 charisma (despite the waste of the racial bonus vs. point buy value). That way there's a clear reason for him not to be able to access the arcane power he feels should be his birthright. It also gives me a way to keep him from being too bitter (i.e. he'll work toward improving that force of personality so that he can finally cast some sorcerous spells). So, a cleric/sorcerer when he gets a high enough CHA. And after reading the 'History of Power' page, he was obviously a Tome before being tapped as a Serpent, specializing in Arcane and Religious knowledge. A very studious and noncombative cleric (I picture him with a crossbow and maybe a light mace, and a STR of 9). He won't be your typical cleric, but he'll still be able to heal and buff, so it's all good. |
| Moribund08-08-06, 06:04 PM | Well we clearly need more incarnates with all the dragon shamans around because Lifebond Vestment soulmeld plus Vigor aura is such an awesome combo: infinite healing for everyone but the incarnate. Personally I think I'm going to be a razorclaw shifter totemist, there is some good synergy between shifter and totemist abilities. Besides every Crimson Codex group needs someone with a low intelligence to listen to all the brainiacs explaining everything. |
| smerwin2908-08-06, 07:24 PM | Besides every Crimson Codex group needs someone with a low intelligence to listen to all the brainiacs explaining everything. "You're that smart?" "Let me put it this way. Have you ever heard of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates?" "Yes." "Morons!" |
| Randall Montgomery08-09-06, 11:00 AM | I am playing Reinhardt Deschain, a Paladin of the Silver Flame, formerly of the nation of Cyre. Since the destruction of his homeland he has dedicated himself to the reformation of the kingdom of Galifar, believing that only through the rule of a single unified and orderly goverment can the tragedy of Cyre be prevented from happening again, and feels that an affiliation with the Crimson Codex is the only way to achieve this goal. He is also hoping that his positive influence can help keep the Codex on the straight and narrow, keeping them from degenerating as they did prior to the Last War. I played the first mod with this character, and I must say I had a blast. As others have mentioned, my party was short a Cleric, so it was probably the closest to a TPK we've ever been, but we managed to make it through with everyone alive, and had a great time doing it. And I must say, I really loved how the mod ended. Looking forward to seeing what happens from here! |
| Butterface08-13-06, 07:35 PM | Human Dragon Shaman from Seren. Although I'm a little annoyed that in order to use dragon totem rituals, you have to be able to spontaneously cast 1st level arcane spells. I just didn't see myself taking sorcerer or bard levels. :O I'll be playing Cadar for the first time at dragoncon in atlanta, maybe I'll see some of you there! |
| bertman408-14-06, 05:26 PM | Well I didn't make it to GenCon but will make it to GenCon SoCal. Looks like my local RPGA club will be concentrating on a single faction and that faction will be Crimson Codex. We only have 1 primary judge for Eberron stuff. Another judge has offered to run another faction so Blackwheel Company mods may also be run. So I'm deciding on my PC for CC faction. I'm thinking Human Dragon Shaman form Seren following the Bronze tradition. However, I find it really strange that Dragon Shaman do not get Knowledge Arcane as a class skill. How are they supposed to learn of dragons? Bertman |
| Aethan08-15-06, 12:27 AM | Nauv, orc totemist...possibly to eventually add levels of Barbarian and the Shadow Marches Warmonger feat. Possibly ending up a Totem Rager. We shall see. - Andy |
| Peter_Seckler08-15-06, 07:55 AM | Hey Randall, I think you were in my group. I was Teel, the halfling rogue. I have to admit I enjoyed playing with all of the other players. I was a bit disappointed that we weren't able to talk our way out of anything in the first few encounters. (I'm kinda blaming the GM for this). I had the impression that we (as a party) all clearly made every effort to avoid battle, and kinda got screwed over for it- at one point we ended up with 4 out of 6 characters unconscious? Hah. :) Sadly, I ended up activating my Blackwheel character for Well of Woe based on my experience in Prophecies. |
| Harliquinn08-15-06, 08:28 AM | Well I had a lot of fun with Rachisk (Ra-Keesk'), Human Copper Dragon Shaman from Seren. I found the Dragon Shaman made a worthy addition to the group with its Auras and moderate combat abilities. Of particular help was the "Aura of the Dragon's Eye" (as Rachisk calls it) for Spot, Listen and Initiative bonuses and the "Aura of the Dragon's Heart" for the Fast Healing 1 (You get to decide who is an ally :) ). I look forward to seeing how far he's leveled after 5 adventures and can't wait to play him in some of the DM Mark's adventures as well as future modules! I was lucky enough to group with some great people both during Well of Woe and Forbidden Knowledge! Thanks to everyone! Harliquinn |
| Randall Montgomery08-15-06, 01:23 PM | Hey Randall, I think you were in my group. I was Teel, the halfling rogue. Sorry man, wasn't me. I played the mod with my weekly retail group. Our party consisted of me, a Drow Rogue, a Kalashtar Psion, a Gnome Barbarian, and a Sorcerer (don't remember his race). Our barbarian was the only person to actually drop, although I was very close, and since our Psion and Sorcerer had exausted their spells/pp, if I fell they would be dropping soon after (poor 4 HP SoBs). I'm a little bummed there's another one of me, since I thought the idea of a CC Paladin was pretty original, but on the plus side, at least I'm not the only one responsible for maintaining the morality of the Codex! :D |
| Dragon_Watcher08-15-06, 01:40 PM | Every group should consider having a Dragon Shaman along for the ride. My Well of Woe's One group had one, and let me tell you all of those aura's can make a difference. Our's had three to transition in and out of, and those little bonuses make a difference. I really loved the fast heal, although we seemed to rest and heal after every battle. I was actually playing a Tiefling Duskblade (from another faction), which I expected to have a greater contribution. I made the mistake of holding spells back for a greater need (which never came), and kept worrying about hitting our ever-charging barbarian. My character turned into a weak fighter who just seemed afraid to take a hit. My Crimson Codex character ended up just being an elf rogue, which worked out well but I will be loading him up on Knowledge skills for the future. Everything written already says it so I am not spoiling anything to say knowledge is key to the Crimson Codex. - Dragon_Watcher |
| Harliquinn08-15-06, 01:48 PM | I heard of one table of Well of Woe that had several Codex members but none of which had any knowledge skills or languages. I thought that was a bit odd, but I guess not everyone took the faction to heart :) Even 1 rank in several knowledge skills can be helpful early on. |
| raalynthslair08-16-06, 02:30 PM | I heard of one table of Well of Woe that had several Codex members but none of which had any knowledge skills or languages. I thought that was a bit odd, but I guess not everyone took the faction to heart :) Even 1 rank in several knowledge skills can be helpful early on. Considering you get 1 free class skill per INT bonus to select from (Knowledge skills that is) and you get a +1 on those (all of this hinges on being literate of course, Barbarians are S-O-L); and you get the language(s) of your race, plus on per INT bonus... so I can't see this being as much as "not taking the faction to heart" but more of "not knowing the full benefits of it mechanically." And let's face it, if you're a fighter or Cleric, or Wizard... Are you going to "waste" skill points (2+ per level) on several different knowledge skills (often making up what they are, b/c there is no "good knowledge topics" list (though I could come up with a few VERY good ones for someone if they are needing some)) to refer to. And furthermore, there wasn't much time to sit and use them and use that book (and what was the deal, BTW, with the book in the first CC mod being a Campaign Card item for some people and not for all of us? - entirely off topic, I know and apologize, it just struck me and if I don't write it, it's gone...) or the time to "research" things off the Glyphbook (in the case of a Wizard or Bard - the only two classes that "get all knowledge skills as class skills" as is required to get it). |
| Herrbard08-16-06, 02:48 PM | (and what was the deal, BTW, with the book in the first CC mod being a Campaign Card item for some people and not for all of us? - entirely off topic, I know and apologize, it just struck me and if I don't write it, it's gone...) or the time to "research" things off the Glyphbook (in the case of a Wizard or Bard - the only two classes that "get all knowledge skills as class skills" as is required to get it). The Campaign Card is usable by anyone that has it, and is the "999 YK Edition" of Stormrider's Chapbook. It gives more benifits than the one in the Codex mod, which is the "998 YK Edition". The book that Crimson Codex members can get as a Faction bonus is the Crimson Glyphbook, which is another thing altogether, and is explained in the XenEx Campaign standards. Dan Erbacher |
| Harliquinn08-16-06, 03:46 PM | Actually, there are very well defined Knowledge topics to take (Arcana, Dungeoneering, History, etc) as listed in the Player's Handbook. Each has specific areas of expertise to which it applies and one or more types of creatures for which it's useful. Even if you put 1 rank into the knowledge skill itself, that lets you make rolls for any DC check and you can always add an action die to the total. My Dragon Shaman took Education as a Feat (Gives all knowledge skills and +1 to 2 of them), received the Glyphbook (gives +1 to all knowledge checks), had a story object and the Chapbook Campaign Card :) I also put some of my measley 2+ skill points a level into certain knowledges that seemed both useful and flavorful for a dragon shaman (history, arcana, nature, dungeoneering). As for the story object and campaign cards, the story object gives additional benefit if used with the campaign card, so having both is better than having just 1 :) (Go Crimson Codex!). The Glyphbook adds even more, so that Codex members tend to be the most learned even with just a little effort. I know not everyone in Codex will have the chance (or desire) to be all-knowledgable, but the opportunity exists to at least be passable at a few. :) Harliquinn |
| ajpopp08-19-06, 09:16 PM | I thought it's about time for me to chime in. My Crimson Codex character is Selekhad, a Kalashtar Psychic Warrior. Yeah, I'm burning 3 action points to play this character. Yeah, I'm totally going against type for this faction. But in our first adventure we had 2 bards (one with no weapons), a dragon shaman and a cleric who couldn't fight well. I figure every group needs a combatant, and if I'm really lucky, I'll be the beneficiary of all kinds of cool buffing! And I won't have to waste anyone's time failing knowledge checks, especially without any action points to spend on them ;) -Al |
| elfinchilde08-29-06, 10:14 PM | Anyone gonna be at DragonCon this weekend? Playing my Crimson Codex char there ... Xerafina the spellscale bard. ~amber |
| Moribund08-30-06, 05:24 PM | I shall be at Dragon*Con. With Loëss the shifter totemist for the Crimson Codex Hooray for wonky characters that I wouldn't be able to play in any of my local games! (Though they aren't too restrictive other current characters include a gnome dragon shaman and a combat waitress) |
| Butterface08-31-06, 12:10 AM | Moribund - I too will be at Dragoncon - maybe we'll all be at the same CC table! I'll be playing Cadar, Human Dragon Shaman. :O |
| Reylance09-01-06, 11:36 AM | I'll be at Dragon*Con, but I don't think I'll be able to fit in a round of Crimson Codex. For the Crimson Codex, I think I'll build a character I've been wanting to play, a sorcerer with the Draconic Heritage feat chain. I'll make use of the Crimson Codex's bonus knowledge skill for Knowledge: Religion, allowing me to take the Divine Oracle prestige class at 6th level. At 11th level, I'll probably go Fatespinner. |
| Marcia_S09-07-06, 11:40 AM | I've finally decided on a half-giant psychic warrior. It seems the best "fit" for the concept I'm going for. I still want her (him?) to be a sort of misfit that is uncomfortable in big cities and crowds of people (like Joshua in "Dark Angel") because they don't trust her/him and she/he is "different" and scary looking. I've never played a psy warrior, so, any recommendations for starting feat, weapon selection, psychic abilities, PrCs to aim for, etc? Thanks, Marcia |
| Butterface09-07-06, 02:08 PM | I'll be at Dragon*Con, but I don't think I'll be able to fit in a round of Crimson Codex. For the Crimson Codex, I think I'll build a character I've been wanting to play, a sorcerer with the Draconic Heritage feat chain. I'll make use of the Crimson Codex's bonus knowledge skill for Knowledge: Religion, allowing me to take the Divine Oracle prestige class at 6th level. At 11th level, I'll probably go Fatespinner. Hope you had fun at Dragoncon Reylance, I know I did. And fatespinner is awesome PrC. I have no idea what PrC if any I'm going into with my Dragon Shaman. Any ideas? |
| Timlagor09-12-06, 11:55 AM | Gnome Artificer I was sorely tempted by the Spellsscale Sorceror -and woudl have gone iwth a Spellscale Beguiler if it was available but I just couldn't pass up my first chance to play an Artificer and this faction certianly suits them. I'm rather surprised that no one else sys they're playing one. (I didn't even see one in the few complete party lists that were posted). I suppose others have already done them elsewhere.. I am somewhat worried about the power when 5-6th level comes along though. I may have to retire him if it gets too embarassing. [NB I'm worried he'll be too powerful not underpowered and the peak isn't til at least 13th level] |
| Timlagor09-12-06, 11:58 AM | Hope you had fun at Dragoncon Reylance, I know I did. And fatespinner is awesome PrC. I have no idea what PrC if any I'm going into with my Dragon Shaman. Any ideas? Seems to me that, auras aside, Dragon Shamen build primarily for melee (archery is probably doable too though). I don't think there is anything else will advance your Auras so if you multiclass at all I'd be looking at Melee PrCs. I couldn't see any obvious point to drop out the Dragon Shaman (admittedly I haven't looked very closely). |
| Butterface09-12-06, 07:01 PM | Seems to me that, auras aside, Dragon Shamen build primarily for melee (archery is probably doable too though). I don't think there is anything else will advance your Auras so if you multiclass at all I'd be looking at Melee PrCs. I couldn't see any obvious point to drop out the Dragon Shaman (admittedly I haven't looked very closely). That's the same conclusion I came to, I 'll probably just stick with Dragon Shaman all the way. I'm doing a combination of Dragon Prophesier feats and Toughness, Improved Toughness etc. to sort of reflect the idea of someone who is from a barbarian tribe (Seren) but is in touch with the Prophecy and doesn't necessarily act like the barbarian class. It seems to me that they didn't really have any good PrC's in mind when the class was made. |
| ameobaslayer09-17-06, 03:56 PM | Psiforged Psion Shaper, working towards Ectopic Adept from Complete Psionic. Should be fun in a couple of levels. |
| Istaran09-21-06, 02:58 PM | An impure spellscale sorceror. Impure in that I'm taking Dragon Shaman at level 1 (+6 HP will be quite welcome, and the defensive auras will help keep me not-dead), and monk at level 6 (w/Ascetic Mage.. mmm... +6 AC (5 from Cha)). It will set me back a bit on the spells, but I think it's worth it for the extra not-death. Still not sure what feats to take though (aside from the aforementioned Ascetic Mage.. and probably Force of Personality for an effective +6 to will saves once I get my level 4 bump to Cha) |
| clem09-21-06, 03:23 PM | Still not sure what feats to take though (aside from the aforementioned Ascetic Mage.. and probably Force of Personality for an effective +6 to will saves once I get my level 4 bump to Cha) Practised Spellcaster from Complete Divine isn't a bad option when you're multiclassing. It allows up to four levels in other classes to stack with your spellcasting class levels for determining caster level. This keeps your damage, range, and duration from suffering when you dip into other classes, not to mention overcoming spell resistance. |
| smerwin2909-21-06, 05:32 PM | Combat Casting or Skill Focus (Concentration) or both are always helpful for anyone planning to cast spells in combat. |
| Timlagor09-24-06, 09:21 AM | Combat Casting or Skill Focus (Concentration) or both are always helpful for anyone planning to cast spells in combat. YUKK! Those are horrible feats for virtually everyone -they just degrade too quickly and get lost in the sea of skill ranks. It's also very rarely even difficult to get our of melee to cast your spells. Combat Casting is something I'd only take to qualify for a PrC and I would never take SF(C). I think you'll regret taking 2 non-casting levels with a Sorceror. I'd definitely drop the Monk level but I concede that the Dragon Shaman does offer a lot as a 1-level dip [I'm sure you have the healing in there] and is certainly thematic. Think for a moment about how much AC you can get from a top-tier spell (or 3). |
| smerwin2909-24-06, 10:59 AM | The original question was what feats should he take with a PC with classes of sorcerer/dragon shaman/monk and the ascetic mage feat. That feat means the person wanted monk levels. To me, that looks like someone who is planning to be in combat. If planning to be in combat with that mix of classes, I assume some spellcasting is happening. If spellcasting is going to happen in combat, and you want to be able to cast defensively in combat with almost no chance of failure, those two feats are essential. Mobile spellcasting is also a feat that I have seen used well. |
| Timlagor09-24-06, 06:16 PM | No the Monk level was because he wanted the Feat. Even if he was building a 'Gish' I wouldn't recommend those Feats (except inasmuch as CC is required for many of the relevant PrCs) - there are too many other Feats you need - Concentration skill ranks (and Constitution with the amulet) quickly devalue them - if you're a melee character you want to spend your turns full-attacking (+swift spells) when you're next to the enemy - if you're not a melee character then you don't want to be anywhere you'd have to use those Feats ..and if you are then getting out is your only concern. If the monk level is purely defensive, don't take it. The Dragon Shaman level is thematic enough and offers such a lot that it might be worth it if it really takes your fancy though you may well find yourself regretting it (for the spells you can't yet cast) Dropping spell levels is something to be done only with great caution and forethought and that's all the more important for Sorcerors (being a spell-level behind already) If this was a strictly low level campaign or allowed Feats to be changed later they would be ok but I really hate the idea of taking Feats that will become worthless. If you must take one, Take the Skill Focus: it's less bad. Other Feats that I would recommend basically come down to Improved Initiative and Metamagic. (Practiced Spellcaster is essential if you drop more than one spell level) The Metamagic Specialist option from PHB2 is far far better than the Familiar or the Spellscale Sorceror stuff but my understanding is that you would have to take Sorceror at first level -Dragon Shaman at level 2 would give you very nearly everything (-2hp) that your current plan does and be well worth the change imo [if you haven't played yet]. If you still want a Familiar then take the Obtain Familiar Feat. EDIT: For further opinions I recommend The Character Optimisation Board (http://boards1.wizards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=339) |
| salp09-25-06, 02:51 PM | My character is Redmar, a Dwarven Rogue, from house Kundarak, working to increase his house' influence. His main stats are (Strength, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom) [14 in each before racial adjustments] He is not the face of the party, (even though Gather Information is, by necessity, one of his primary skills), neither is he the best at opening locks, but he ain't no slouch either. Don't ask him to be stealthy (He's a dwarf already!) I took the investigator feat from the PH, and plan on taking one level in cleric before I take the Shadowbane Stalker prestige class (from CAdv) upon reaching 6th level. I also took the Disruptive attack ability from the PHII, as my 1st level expansion slot. The Shadowbane stalker PrC is essentially a Rogue, Cleric combo. BTW Crimson Codex faction, LG alignment (by necesstiy of the SStalkerClass) This character is a trap finding, and trap disabling specialist. He uses his search skills to uncover clues, and his sense motive to figure when someone is being less than honest. I plan on trading cards i should get later this month to get a Amateur Inquisitive campaign card. What do you think about this Character concept? sincerely Sal. |
| smerwin2909-25-06, 03:24 PM | I like it! I like when players think of their characters as characters in the dramatic sense, instead of just numbers on the page to be optimized and tweaked. |
| Butterface09-25-06, 03:50 PM | My character is Redmar, a Dwarven Rogue, from house Kundarak, working to increase his house' influence. His main stats are (Strength, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom) [14 in each before racial adjustments] He is not the face of the party, (even though Gather Information is, by necessity, one of his primary skills), neither is he the best at opening locks, but he ain't no slouch either. Don't ask him to be stealthy (He a dwarf already!) I took the investigator feat from the PH, and plan on taking one level in cleric before I take the Shadowbane Stalker prestige class (from CAdv) upon reaching 6th level. I also took the Disruptive attack ability from the PHII, as my 1st level expansion slot. The Shadowbane stalker PrC is essentially a Rogue, Cleric combo. BTW Crimson Codex faction, LG alignment (by necesstiy of the SStalkerClass) This character is a trap finding, and trap disabling specialist. He uses his search skills to uncover clues, and his sense motive to figure when someone is being less than honest. I plan on trading cards i should get later this month to get a Amateur Inquisitive campaign card. What do you think about this Character concept? sincerely Sal. Awesome idea Sal - KUDOS to you for taking the investigator feat! And yeah, tweaking out RPGA characters especially is just silly. What's the point? It's 25 point buy, just have fun. |
| Qworg09-26-06, 02:37 AM | A Warforged Dragon Disciple Mostly Fighter. Anyone know if you can unlock Warmage with an unlock slot? |
| boolean09-26-06, 03:41 AM | Anyone know if you can unlock Warmage with an unlock slot? Nope. There is a list on p. 10 of the Campaign Standards (v1.0) that tells you what items can be placed on the expansion list. This list does not include base classes. Expansion slots can only be used to unlock magic items, mundane items, feats, spells, or prestige classes (at every fifth level). I'd suggest trying to get the "Forged of War" expansion card, from Mark of Heroes set 3. This unlocks Warmage, as well as most of the Warforged specific items (feats, substitution levels, etc) from Races of Eberron. |
| Skerrit09-26-06, 09:24 AM | The above is true.... for now. We will be drastically expanding what you can put into unlock slots in the next CS (which I hope to finish up by the end of the week and get to the other FMs for their edits). |
| Timlagor09-26-06, 12:31 PM | Will you be allowing people retroactively take up these options? |
| Qworg09-26-06, 03:09 PM | Woo! I look forward to it. =) |
| BobD71609-27-06, 10:16 AM | Dale A Changeling Bard with a growing list of alternate identities, including other party members (yea, Dale liked playing “Hey! I’m You!” as a kid.):schemes: Being a Bard, Dale is the consummate “backup”. Ranged weapon skills and “Inspire Courage” add to the party’s combative abilities. A broad range of knowledge skills and the Crimson Glyphbook aid in finding & understanding clues. Even the limited range of Bard spells will help support our Psi-Forged. I chose the Heroic Spirit feat after noticing that I have 2x copies of the Amateur Inquisitive reward card, along with the Y999 Chapbook and several other cards that looked like they could be handy…and the ability to spend 2 AP to reuse a class feature caused members of my group to encourage Dale to Inspire Courage several times. (The poor guy’s throat was seriously parched by the end of the first adventure.) I like to think of my Characters as personalities, this one should be a challenge, as each identity mentioned above will develop its own persona (if I play it right, which I hope I will.:D ) |
| boolean09-27-06, 12:17 PM | The above is true.... for now. We will be drastically expanding what you can put into unlock slots in the next CS (which I hope to finish up by the end of the week and get to the other FMs for their edits). Personally, I hope you don't go too far with that. Part of the flavour of each faction is which class options they can choose from. I'd be a little disappointed if all it took to play a dragon shaman or a warlock was to add it to my expansion list. |
| Mherduwynn09-30-06, 07:50 PM | Don't worry. One of our guiding principles is keeping the factions both seperate and unique. Options will exist but the original choices available for members of each faction will always remain special. -August |
| EberronMoses10-01-06, 01:49 AM | I plan on making a shifter rogue and model him after Indiana Jones. I'll take the education feat as my first feat and spend all my ranks in knowledges. Eventually, I'll probably go for extreme explorer. Either htat or a Cyran bard with white hair and some of that fancy Cyran clothes. After all the Caldyn fragments may reveal what happened to my homeland. |
| Tarvok10-14-06, 09:50 PM | I don't have PHB2, and I'm curious as to why there are so many dragon shamen. Is it unbalanced in terms of power, or is it just so kewl that all the kids are doing it? As to my character, I have no supplemental books, nor am I even remotely familiar with Eberron, so I'm all PHB. Human fighter, DEX 17, INT 16, STR 10, REST 8. Weapon finesse (wields a rapier), Dodge, Mobility. Knowledge: Geography, History, Royalty/Nobility. Planning to level him alternately in rogue and fighter, climbing the int and dex fighting feat trees (ulimately toward whirlwind attack). Also carries a heavy crossbow, which he typically only fires once before drawing his rapier. He's both extremely quick with a rapier, and has a brilliant mind. Though he's trained as a fighter (he absolutely loves fine swordplay), his curiosity and ability drives him to keep company with scholars, such as the Crimson Codex. In combat, he'll whiz behind enemy lines and set up flanks as quickly as possible. Are there any prestige classes this guy should be shooting for? I'm sure there's got to be something better than just alternating fighter and rogue. |
| dreamwolf10-15-06, 08:14 PM | Human fighter, DEX 17, INT 16, STR 10, REST 8. Weapon finesse (wields a rapier), Dodge, Mobility. Knowledge: Geography, History, Royalty/Nobility. Planning to level him alternately in rogue and fighter, I usually try to avoid the whole min/max game in favor of roleplaying decisions, but in this case I would recommend remembering the skill point difference. With a 16 int, it would give you 48 skill points at first level, and then 6 more at second level when you take a fighter, rather than 24 at first and then 12 more at second when you take rogue. |
| Tarvok10-15-06, 11:14 PM | I usually try to avoid the whole min/max game in favor of roleplaying decisions, but in this case I would recommend remembering the skill point difference. With a 16 int, it would give you 48 skill points at first level, and then 6 more at second level when you take a fighter, rather than 24 at first and then 12 more at second when you take rogue. Yeah, I agonized over this decision for some time. I know that taking rogue as my first level gives me a load of extra skillpoints, while taking fighter as my first will simply give me a few more hitpoints and the opportunity to start off in the role I desire: front line (or, should I say, back line,given he's starting out with mobility) fighting. I considered taking rogue at first, but I just couldn't wrap my roleplaying head around it. He is, first and foremost, a master of the rapier. I know rogues are proficient with rapiers... Dang it. Now you got me all mixed up again. :p |
| GenerallyUnique10-17-06, 03:25 AM | I doubt I'll actually be playing XE anytime soon (I recently moved away from my group, and while they play every new adventure -- in a group of six players, all factions are played every month, fairly cool -- I can't find anyone that plays Eberron here) but I know what I would play. A skarn monk. I mean, how can you not go totally nuts over the sheer kickassery of that? I would be heading into the Spinemeld Warrior class, and be a very lawful (not ethical lawful, annoyingly law abiding to the very letter of the law sort) guy focused on perfecting himself and finding out everything he can about the mishtai. I love the Skarn, and the fact that you can play them in this faction has me really wanting to go all kung fu spine guy on the baddies. |
| Timlagor10-17-06, 03:41 PM | I don't have PHB2, and I'm curious as to why there are so many dragon shamen. Is it unbalanced in terms of power, or is it just so kewl that all the kids are doing it? As to my character, I have no supplemental books, nor am I even remotely familiar with Eberron, so I'm all PHB. Human fighter, DEX 17, INT 16, STR 10, REST 8. Weapon finesse (wields a rapier), Dodge, Mobility. Knowledge: Geography, History, Royalty/Nobility. Planning to level him alternately in rogue and fighter, climbing the int and dex fighting feat trees (ulimately toward whirlwind attack). Also carries a heavy crossbow, which he typically only fires once before drawing his rapier. He's both extremely quick with a rapier, and has a brilliant mind. Though he's trained as a fighter (he absolutely loves fine swordplay), his curiosity and ability drives him to keep company with scholars, such as the Crimson Codex. In combat, he'll whiz behind enemy lines and set up flanks as quickly as possible. Are there any prestige classes this guy should be shooting for? I'm sure there's got to be something better than just alternating fighter and rogue. OUCH! Not 'optimizing' I can understand but you are looking at a world of hurt with this build. I would strongly urge you to chop 2 points off your intelligence whatever else you do. Your strength could use a boost but [b]that Constitution will get you killed[b] (especially with Rogue HD). Whirlwind attack is also generally considered pretty weak but it's not what's going to get you killed. PrCs to consider: Dervish, Duellist, Invisible Blade (though you'd have change weapon) Or to put is another way: if the guy's that intelligent why hasn't he worked out he should be a wizard (/artificer)? Dragon Shaman: It's new. It's Shiny. It's only available in the Codex. I don't think it's really overpowered except perhaps as a 'dip' but it's not bad and it is interesting. |
| Tarvok10-17-06, 10:39 PM | Your strength could use a boost but [b]that Constitution will get you killed[b] (especially with Rogue HD). Whirlwind attack is also generally considered pretty weak but it's not what's going to get you killed. Hmm. I suppose I *could* lower the INT, but I really like the idea of this guy having a massive number of skill points to put into obscure knowledge. I think you can see what I'm going for here; how would you build him? PrCs to consider: Dervish, Duellist, Invisible Blade What source do I find these in? Remember: I am running of PHB only here (and having read the SRD, I know they're not in the DMG) (though you'd have change weapon) Ha! Never! :D Or to put is another way: if the guy's that intelligent why hasn't he worked out he should be a wizard (/artificer)? Umm... I like swords! :P I happen to think the "high INT rogue" build can be an extremely useful build... in the right campaign, that is. I'm not sure XE is exactly the right campaign for this, though. |
| smerwin2910-18-06, 07:29 AM | I think you are going to find that the Crimson Codex is going to be the right Faction to have a high INT and lots of Knowledge skills in. |
| dreamwolf10-18-06, 04:16 PM | I would keep the INT and resulting skills. Of course, you could drop your DEX to 16 and use the extra points to boost CON. Going to 18 DEX at 4th level would be great, but so would surviving to 4th level... |
| Jaramin10-23-06, 01:27 AM | I was thinking up a character and here are some of the beliefs/traits I would assign to him : - Considers elemental binding (airships and the like) to be slavery; - Doesn't have a high estime of predatory instincts (think of shifters and dragons); - Never misses a chance to have a talk with a warforged or kalashtar. - Argues first, fights after, unless someone's life is in peril. - Isn't too fond of worship; - Is sometimes brooding, often pondering; - Would most likely be chaotic good. Care to say if he would fit in the Crimson Codex, and if not, where? Thanks :) |
| Tarvok10-23-06, 09:58 PM | I was thinking up a character and here are some of the beliefs/traits I would assign to him : <snip> Care to say if he would fit in the Crimson Codex, and if not, where? Thanks :) Now, I am nowhere near an Eberron Expert (my first exposure is via the XE campaign which has yet to begin in my area), but I see two possibilities. First is, ironically enough, Covenant of Light. If his oppostion to "worship" is simply to "traditional" modes of worship, with him merely having his "own way" of worshipping, I could see him being CoL, with all those other pieces in there. Heck, he could even be a non-aligned cleric. Crimson Codex seems to have more to do with the study of prophecy and ways to undo some Past Wrong (probably having to do with the Last War) than with exploring warforged and kalashtar psychology, so I'm not sure where he would fit. But, if you think this guy is a genuine misfit, there's always the Cabal of Shadows. :evillaugh |
| Donald_Cannith10-26-06, 07:57 PM | I think what you have right there is a good old agnostic bard. I would go gnome and totally just hammer some of your knowledge skillsin like knowledge history and knowledge psionics, but also set aside somethnig for diplomacy, sense motive ,andbluff. Remember in eberron the bard isnt the wandering minstrel anymore. And i think crimson codex would beperfect for that kind of build. You like knowledge and think caldlyn fragments could open up a whole new window into the past incarnations of warforged and also the first quori invasion. Perfect fit. |
| Istaran11-09-06, 09:07 PM | I don't have PHB2, and I'm curious as to why there are so many dragon shamen. Is it unbalanced in terms of power, or is it just so kewl that all the kids are doing it? For a one level dip you can get a few lovely auras, probably best of which is the healing aura. As long as you are concious (and have that aura up instead of one of your other two picks) you and all your allies have fast healing 1 if they are below half life. This means your party members auto-stabilize when downed, and will get back to half life without spending any spells or potions after combat. For those that take the class longer, they get a breath weapon every 1d4 rounds, which grows with the class level. And according to the 1.1 draft CS, the metabreath feats from Draconomicon should be available to tweak it out (one gives a -1 round delay between breaths, the rest add to the delay between breaths to give bonuses akin to metamagic.) In short, level 1+ dragon shamans have defensive/healing powers that are weaker than a clerics but are unlimited use. Level 4+ dragon shamans have breath weapons which are not as devastating as a high level wizard/sorc's spells, but again are unlimited use. And they have d10 HD, no penalties from armor (and medium armor prof if I recall correctly). Doesn't hurt either that their key stat is Con (for breath save DC. They use Cha for some side powers too). So.. they've got a good mix of offensive and defensive powers, don't need to worry about conserving powers, but none of their powers are devastating powerful. But mostly they're just new and shiny. |
| bertman412-05-06, 02:54 PM | I just finished making my character. Never played him but he's second level now. Previously I took one for the team and played a fastplay. Brennus Human Male from Seren Bronze Dragon Shaman Str 14, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 13 Skills: Knowledge Nature +7, Knowledge Dungeoneering +7, Survival +10 Feats: Heroic Spirit, Track, Skill Focus Survival (bonus) Auras: Energy Shield, Senses, Vigor I've seen lots of brainy CC members but few that can fight and few that are good outdoors. I figured Track would be useful in the wilds of Xen'drik. And I can fight. 20HP at 2nd level is not bad. Hopefully we won't fight too many things that can give Con damage. Oh wait, we're in Xen'drik, monstrous scorpions are everywhere! Senses Aura will be up before combat. Switch to Energy Shield Aura during combat. If things look dire, switch to Vigor Aura. Keep Vigor Aura up before Cleric heals, or start using consumables. Switch back to Sense Aura. Repeat. Bertman |
| the truthseeker12-10-06, 02:22 PM | What do you guys think of the Mindspy? I have a pretty cool idea in mind to build one, but need to find out if they are even available. Not to worry; as per the Xen'Drik Campaign Standards 1.1, the Prestige class is simply Limited via Locked which you could request Unlocked via 3 expansion slots. I'd suggest making this your L5 choice. The only "restricted" Prestige classes are undead and evil ones (the latter permitted for evil Shadow Faction members) Enjoy, Josh R |
| the truthseeker12-10-06, 02:27 PM | Deleted |
| the truthseeker12-10-06, 02:54 PM | A Warforged Dragon Disciple Mostly Fighter. Anyone know if you can unlock Warmage with an unlock slot? Nope. There is a list on p. 10 of the Campaign Standards (v1.0) that tells you what items can be placed on the expansion list. This list does not include base classes. Expansion slots can only be used to unlock magic items, mundane items, feats, spells, or prestige classes (at every fifth level). I'd suggest trying to get the "Forged of War" expansion card, from Mark of Heroes set 3. This unlocks Warmage, as well as most of the Warforged specific items (feats, substitution levels, etc) from Races of Eberron. The above is true.... for now. We will be drastically expanding what you can put into unlock slots in the next CS (which I hope to finish up by the end of the week and get to the other FMs for their edits). As per 1.1: "Every time you gain a level you gain another expansion slot. You can use these slots to unlock non-restricted classes, domains, prestige classes, magic items, mundane items, feats, or spells by adding it to your expansion list." Thanks for updating this, so now you CAN be a warmage by card OR by 3 expansion slots. |
| the truthseeker12-10-06, 05:18 PM | Thanks for your patience with my other two replies before I answered the thread. As insane as it sounds, I'm making a Spellscale Sorcerer Adventuring Prodigy with the Educated feat. I know I'm bucking the trend with Dragon Shamans, fighters and thieves here, but I'm going to stand firm on this :) Sidney Arcanson: The Storycaster M SS Sorc 1 (Adv Prod 1st Lvl Racial Sub Dragbl Sorc.) S 8 D 12 C 10 I 16 W 8 CH 18 Blood Quickening Meditations: Varies, but mainly Aasterinian, Chronepsis, and Hlal Skills: Bluff +8, Knowledge Arcana +11, Perform (Oratory-Storytelling)+6, Spellcraft +7 Use Magic Device +8 Feats: Education [+1 added to Kn: Arcana and Kn: Dungeoneering or Planes](Provides access to all knowledge skiills as well as a Crimson Glyphbook) *Draconic Heratige (Pyroclastic Sonic if allowed, Platinum Sonic or Acid if not) Background: Sidney Arcanson "The Storycaster" was born to "human" parents (one of them a sorcerer of course,) and emerged as a Spellscale. It was quite clear that Sidney "matured" rather quickly.... ...between his mother asking when he was going to "settle down" and "marry a nice girl...did you want me to set you up," and the frequent "disagreements" he and his father had on how to focus sorcerous abilities (and nearly ending in the expected father-son brawl and definitely ending in the histrionics/departure of Sidney.) Wanting to go as far as possible from humanity, yet still have beings admire his simply fabulous Turquoise/Aquamarine "skin" coloring perfectly offset by the mother-of-pearl white outfit with silver trim, Sidney moved to Seren at the ripe old age of 13. There, he frequently admired (although with some gruesome shock) the tenacity of the (non Dragonblood non local non barbarian) outsiders frequently attempting to enter the realm that was not welcomed to them under pain of a very messy death. His favorite quote from one of them still is, "I shall not fail," moments before he was ripped apart by the horde of waiting barbarians not interested in the explorer's passionate untranslated (to the barbarian's tongue at least) speech--when one reflects on the wisdom of the macabre moments of course! But eventually, even this experience would pass as the dragonshards fell to earth and more information leaked to the non-draconic about the Caldyn Fragments and the dragons of Argonnessen. Sidney Arcanson, now knew it was time to step into a new role: the sage of the arcane and saviour of Argonnessen from itself! (...And, End story!.....) Any-way, even if that didn't IMMEDIATELY come true, the tale is simply FAN-tastic, and who can stay silent to such a charismatic person as I...yes, tell me all about your similar tale...... (Planned levels) 1-5 Sorcerer [1 Racial Substitution 4 Racial Substitution] 6-8/9-Dracolexi 9/10-10/11-Dragonheart Mage 12+-Dragonheart Mage,? (If ever bumped that high.) So, that's my concept. As you can see, I'm thinking on actually splitting the advancement between two Prestige Classes: 3-4 Dracolexi and 2 Dragonheart Mage. I'm traversing a little off the beaten path here (no I'm NOT initially expecting to take all/most of the DH feats.) At L 3, I plan on taking the (required) feat Eschew Materials over Silent Spell. At 6th level, I will take the Jack-of-all-Trades feat, allowing me to roll on almost ANYTHING trained or not (which makes the "Let's Try That Again" card now another one in my stack along with all the other map/book/second wind cards.) At 6th Level, I plan on taking the Draconic word Renthisj (also a good addition to the comp languages spell later for a personal poor man's Tongues.) At 7th level I get the free Dracolexi metamagic feat Still Spell. At 8th level, I plan on taking the Power Word Disable as a future Level 4 known Spell At 9th level I will take the Research Feat or the Energy Substitution Feat. At 9th Level I plan on taking the Draconic word Ssearth (to either heal others/myself or use as a no-level/casting time-adjusted Extend Spell Feat. If I choose to start Draconic Mage now, I get Draconic Breath +2d6/level At 10th Level I will either start the Dragonheart Mage Prestige Class (and receive the Draconic breath as above) or be on its second level receiving my bonus Draconic Feat (of which I then will take Draconic Power to both offset the two level loss as well as increasing my sonic/Acid DC saving throw.) At 11th level I will either (most likely) receive the abovementioned second level bonus Draconic Feat (Draconic Power) or take another level [3] of Draconic Mage. And if by some amazing miracle we actually bump up high enough/I advance to 12: At 12th level I will take the third level of Dragonheart Mage or get the fourth level of Dragonheart Mage and take Draconic Toughness At 12th level I will take the Draconic Toughness feat if not obtained by a Prestige Class, or Draconic Resistance if the former feat was received by the Prestige Class. Although possibly unclear at first, I plan to up my bluff to 5 ranks minimum giving me another +2 bonus to my (currently unaltered by anything else) current +4 future +6 diplomacy with no ranks needed yet. This is for the those times to put people at ease when somebody feels they are "being tricked" by his "fast talkin'." I possibly plan in future levels above 2nd to take 5 ranks in Knowledge Nobility and Royality to keep it even higher, but most likely plan on starting another Knowledge skill asap (either planes or dungeoneering which will be the recipient of the other Educated bonus.) So that's my build on how to offset the SS Sorc/PrC build 2-level loss with the caster level bump and the power word achieved at an earlier caster level. I may skip the 4th level racial substitution/spell-like ability due to the fact I will be so behind the casting curve as it is. Of course, this is just a framework and I'm open to any tweaks and/or suggestions. The two main things I was wondering about were: 1) I rarely play a sorcerer. This one-while certainly will definitely need boom spells-is more than just a walking cannon. Based on my potential advancement build, can I get some "spells known" suggestions? 2)Technically, is there any way to NOT have to take a prestige class' required minimum three levels? Thanks all; I can't WAIT to start playing my Codex Faction PC! I know it's an evil act, but I planed on channeling a bit of Robert Cantone into him (and hopefully it won't send the player to the lower pits after the player's life has ended :) ) Having fun, Josh |
| Fiery_Fighter_Drake12-20-06, 01:07 AM | Since the character rebuild, I've turned my character from a human bard/CSI-wannabe to a tough, powerful Bronze Dragon Shaman. Bronze seems like a popular totem dragon thanks to the skill set and possibly the draconic adaptation as well. He's currently level 3, as I used him in Well of Woe. Loki Dy'thel, CG Human Bronze Dragon Shaman (http://www.thetangledweb.net/profiler/view.php?id=5121) Background A lone baby boy was found was found on Totem Beach one day by Serens. He lay under the shadow of a great statue, that of a bronze dragon. When they brought him out of the shadow, his brown hair shone like bronze in the bright morning light. Taking this as an omen, the Serens brought the child back to them to their village and showed him to their shaman. Hearing their story, their village dragon shaman declared the boy a child of the dragons and he would be trained as a dragon shaman! Other dragon shamans from neighbouring villages were brought to see the boy, and each did concur with the old shaman's conclusion. Years pass as the boy they called Bronze grew quickly. He was smart and intelligent, at least more so then the primitive Serens. What his teachers thought him, he learned quickly. Upon reaching the age of 12, the old shaman, now nearing the end of his life, gave Bronze the belongings that had been with him when the Serens had found him on Totem Beach. Among them was a blanket with a name stitched into a corner; Loki Dy'thel. The old mystic told Bronze that, in fact, that was likely his real name, for he had been found wrapped in the blanket. He had chosen not to reveal this until now so as not to effect the boy's training. He had guessed that his family had been caught in a storm while at sea, for it had been raining heavily the night before they found him. By some miracle, he had been survived. With his last breath, he tells the boy, "Loki Dy'thel, go to Totem Beach alone, and call for your benefactor, the one they call Watcher" The same day, Loki goes to Totem Beach alone, saying to the villagers that he must go and commune with the dragons. As he landed on Totem Beach, he called out. "Come out, Watcher." Suddenly, with a rush of air and the flap of wings, a huge bronze dragon appeared. Loki knew it was a bronze dragon, for he himself wore adornments of bronze and they matched the color of the great wyrm's scales. He was immediately cowed by the presence of the dragon and began to cower, but the dragon said "Do not be afraid, little one. I am the one you called, the one called Watcher. I saved you those many years ago as I was returning to Argonessen from an errand. I saw pieces of a ship floating upon the water near Totem Beach and I went to investigate. I found no survivors and just as I was about to return, I heard the cry of a human babe. That was you, little one." The dragon saw that the boy had stopped cowering and was now looking in awed silence at the dragon. He continued to speak, "I carried your basket in my claw, as gently as I could, as I placed you under the shelter of a great bronze dragonhead. The storm stopped and morning came and I knew the Serens would come that morning to pay homage to my brethren and I, so I left you to their care. I have observed you many times and have even been one of your teachers, guised as a human. In return for saving your life, I have a request to make of you." The boy reached his hand up and the dragon lowered his head until his beak-like mouth was mere inches from the boy's face. Anyone who came across this scene would find it peculiar indeed, for it would seem that the dragon was bowing his head towards the child. Touching his snout, Loki said, "Father Watcher, you saved my life and tought me things I would have otherwise have never known. My life is yours to do with as you wish." The dragon seemed to smile and a rumbling, like laughter, came deep from within his belly. "Very well then, little wyrmling, my request is simple. When you have come of age, your totem shall be the bronze dragon. Then, you shall go to Khorvaire, the land in the west, and aid an organisation known as the Crimson Codex. Their leader has gathered fragments of the draconic Prophecy, and we, the dragons of Argonessen, have taken an interest in ther activities, for the Prophecy concerns us as well. Ensure that they continue to gather the fragments of the Prohecy and let none stand in your way." Nearly 6 years later, Loki Dy'thel has become a full-fledged bronze dragon shaman and works within the Crimson Codex as a Serpent, the elite members of the Codex. Due to his age, many of the senior members look down on him, thinking that a young upstart like him would not be able to make worthy contributions to the Codex. However, he has proven time and again that he is a strong ally, his budding draconic powers giving him an edge over the enemies of the Crimson Codex. What wll his impact upon the Prophecy be? Only time will tell... |
| Butterface12-20-06, 03:11 AM | Very nice background. :) |
| Fiery_Fighter_Drake12-22-06, 01:20 PM | Thank you kindly Butterface. I take pride in writing up my characters background, be they level 1 or level 10. I always think off all those fantasy movies and books I've read and draw inspiration from them. |
| Hellcast01-06-07, 10:01 PM | I was planning on half-orc druid gatekeeper from the shadow marches. An old fashioned gatekeeper that follows old traditions. I also liked the gatekeeper mysthagoge prestige class, but i think there aren't to many aberrations to make it worth it. I think the class should have been made to count aberrations, undead and outsiders since the gatekeepers fight all of them. And I don't how how to get the special pre-requesite of the gatekeeper rank. I think CC would be the best faction since the gatekeeper learned from dragons and still respect them (and i also have already a character planned for CoL). But I still have to see. |