Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Leibel 11-17-05, 10:53 PM	I'm currently playing a Fighter 2/Ranger 9 who's big into archery. The DM has a policy of declaring multi-classing in advance so I'm trying to think of options. 1) Scout - Gain trap disabling(Scouts do get Disable device right?) 2) Hospitaler - develop the more good oriented nature of the PC; okay I'd lose out on tracking/stealth/detection but for roleplaying purposes it would be nice(and break the stereotype that only pallies become Hospitalers) 3) Shaaryan Hunter - the character has a light warhorse and being the ultimate mounted archer/tracker has an appeal
TheChilliGod 11-17-05, 11:57 PM	I like to think of the primary reason for picking a prestige class is to find something to further define the combat style and philosophy of that character, with power being a close second. I don't know what you're really after in this case, but might I suggest my opinion on a few things. Scouts do get Disable Device, it's in the errata for Complete Adventurer. Aside from that, scouts do get quite a few bonuses that couple with ranged attacking, such as the bonus feats, and skirmish can be used with ranged attacks. (though you can't get any full attacks while using it, and it works only within 30 ft) But consider the experience penalty, as well. (that is, if your guy isn't a human or half-elf.) I think it would fit your character if you don't want to focus as much on his affinity with horses, and really draw that aspect out. Despite requiring the knowledge of mounted combat (your PC, not you) to become a hospitaler, there isn't much to offer in ways of sneaking and scouting, more of a focus on helping the innocent. If your character likes to help the innocent (and defend pilgrims), as Hospitalers do, then by all means. If you want to stick to being sneaky and scouty, then not a good choice. This decision is definitely clear, but I doubt it's easy, isn't it? Now, I'm not familiar with the Shaaryan Hunter, but from that summary he's quite possibly a lot like the Wild Plains Outrider PrC (from Complete Adventurer) I have a hunch this is the sort of thing you're character is really looking out for, but I don't really know. In short, it's your choice, and unless you're looking for optimization advice on what class to multiclass to in order to be the best character you can be, rather than looking to us to tell you what sort of character your character is, then there's not much to say about the matter.
allenchan 11-18-05, 01:17 AM	First, I'd recommend posting this on the Character Optimization board, secondly, I'd recommend posting thereon your stats, feats, etc, as well as available books for your use.
Leibel 11-18-05, 08:41 AM	Current Feats Mounted Combat, Mounted Archery, Track, Endurance, Improved Initiative, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Far Shot, Rapid Shot, Many Shot. Complete Divine, Adventurer + Core Books Light Warhorse Jump/Swim/Climb 7 ranks, Hide/Move Silently/Listen/Spot/Ride/Handle Animal 12 ranks, Survival 15 ranks Shaaryan Hunter is very much a Mongol warrior type PrC - a speed bonus to for the horse, mounted archery bonus that negates the penalty and some special abilities. The problem is were currently in a jungle setting with a few villages nearby so I have doubt's about mounted combat's usefulness.