Post/Author/DateTime	Post
The Simbul 08-19-05, 02:46 AM	According to the Players Handbook, 5 or more ranks in Knowledge [Local] grants a +2 synergy bonus to Gather Information checks. The Players Guide to Faerun later defines (at least in terms of its campaign setting) what the core rules didnt attempt to touch; how far the Knowledge [Local] skill extends in the totality of the campaign world. In the case of Faerun, Knowledge [Local] is tied to a specific region. In addition, using the rules in the PGtF, 5 or more ranks in Knowledge [Local] for a specific region gives a special +2 synergy bonus to all other Knowledge checks (History, Geography, etc), but only when those checks pertain to the specific region. Thus, in a FR campaign, if I have 5 ranks in Knowledge [Silver Marches local], should the +2 synergy bonus to Gather Information checks apply to all Gather Information checks, or only when those checks are used in the Silver Marches? From a realistic standpoint, one can see the logic in having the bonus only apply in the specific region, but from a balance standpoint it seems to disadvantage the player to some degree. For example, 5 or more ranks in Knowledge [Nobility] grants a +2 bonus to Diplomacy checks...not just Diplomacy checks involving Nobility, but to ALL Diplomacy checks. Thus there is an example of a synergy bonus derived from a specific subskill source that can be used on checks that dont pertain to that specific subskill, which feed my dilemma.
Another Gnome 08-19-05, 06:31 AM	That's a really good question... A case could be made either way, but the fact remains that it doesn't specifically say in PGtF that the general synergy bonus wouldn't apply to all GI checks regardless of region. You know, it's only illegal if you're caught. ;)
Silverpanther 08-19-05, 06:44 AM	awww... i love al bundy :D