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    Titan in the Playground
     
    Thurbane's Avatar

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    Jul 2007
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    Default Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Welcome to Junkyard Stadium! It is in this hallowed pile of miscellaneous parts that we will hold a competition of Practical Optimization with three components. The catch? Competitors may not use the third item in their builds!

    Goal: Create a build that showcases the selected ingredients while steering clear of the Forbidden Ingredient.


    This competition has two Necessary Components and one Forbidden Component. This round's components are...




    Everybody Was Kung-Fu Fighting...




    Spoiler: RULES
    Show

    • Creation: 32 point-buy is the presumed creation method. You may assume that you will have enough exp to reach ECL 20, and that the occasional bit of crafting, use of spells with exp components, or the like won't prevent you from doing so. However, LA buyoff is an alternate rule which is not in play.
    • Workshop: Competitors will be free to use any official 3.5 rulebook in constructing their builds. Dragon Magazine is disallowed, and Unearthed Arcana is allowed; but see below. Web-exclusive 3.0 or 3.5 materials by WotC are expressly allowed, but take care to verify that an updated version did not appear in print elsewhere as this may cause an Elegance deduction at the judges' discretion. If you use web material, please link it. Dragon Magazine Compendium is allowed, as are Oriental Adventures (and its 3.5 updates in Dragon Magazine) and the Dragonlance Campaign Setting. Alternate rule systems from UA such as generic classes, spontaneous divine casters, gestalt and fractional saves and BAB are not allowed, as they create a different playing field.
    • Leadership is banned: We're creating one thing, not all of the things. If your entry includes a prestige class or ACF that grants Leadership or a Leadership-like ability as a bonus feat, the feat should be ignored and is not eligible to be traded away for another feat or ACF through any means.
    • Speculation: Please don't post or speculate on possible builds until after the reveal in order to avoid spoiling the surprise if a particular competitor is producing a build along those lines. Speculation and stub posting is to be avoided until the reveal is completed.
    • Disputes: Any scoring disputes should be sent to the Chair via PM. Valid disputes include RAW misreadings, arithmetic errors, things missed that are present in the entry, and inconsistently applied criteria. Invalid disputes include disagreements on matters of opinion, a judge not catching something not explicitly presented in the entry, and the like. Invalid disputes will be responded to via PM by the Chair, but valid disputes will be posted in-thread for the judge to review. When disputing, please indicate the judge the dispute is intended for and provide a quote of the disputed comment or comments. Note: the Chair may edit or paraphrase any disputes in presenting them to the judges.
    • Presentation: You will need to present a write-up of your build at at least one of the following points: 5th level, 10th level, 15th, 20th, and a "sweet spot" that you feel is the high point of the build, as well as presenting a fully-fleshed out 20-level build in the table below. Please give a rundown of the build's abilities and playability throughout its life. Builds will be posted anonymously, in order to avoid the potential of bias towards a particular competitor. For this reason, please don't put your name in the build as I'm likely to miss it when reviewing the entries. Also for this reason, PLEASE do not include any material that may or may not offend any potential viewers/judges/competitors OR break forum rules. Any builds which violate forum rules WILL be withheld from posting.
    • Anonymity: if you are submitting multiple entries, please try not to have entries reference each other, or have other obvious "tells" that they are from the same competitor. If it is essential for your concept that entries are somehow linked, that is fine, but otherwise, please try to limit info that will give away who competitors are.


    Spoiler: Handy-dandy Tables You Can Use
    Show
    Due to concerns about standardizing entry format, please use the following table for their entry.
    Spoiler
    Show
    NAME OF ENTRY
    Level Class Base Attack Bonus Fort Save Ref Save Will Save Skills Feats Class Features
    1st New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    2nd New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    3rd New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    4th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    5th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    6th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    7th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    8th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    9th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    10th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    11th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    12th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    13th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    14th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    15th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    16th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    17th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    18th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    19th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities
    20th New Class Level +x +x +x +x Skills Feats New Class Abilities

    Code immediately below (spoiler).
    Spoiler
    Show
    [table="class: head alt1 alt2"]
    [tr]
    [th][B]Level[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Class[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Base Attack Bonus[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Fort Save[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Ref Save[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Will Save[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Skills[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Feats[/B][/th]
    [th][B]Class Features[/B][/th]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]1st[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]2nd[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]3rd[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]4th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]5th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]6th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]7th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]8th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]9th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]10th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]11th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]12th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]13th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]14th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]15th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]16th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]17th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]18th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]19th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]20th[/td]
    [td]New Class Level[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]+x[/td]
    [td]Skills[/td]
    [td]Feats[/td]
    [td]New Class Abilities[/td]
    [/tr]
    [/table]
    For entries with spellcasting, use the following table for Spells per day and Spells Known. (Spells Known only if necessary, i.e. Sorcerer or Bard, but not Wizard or Warmage)
    Spoiler
    Show
    Spells per Day/Spells Known
    Level 0lvl 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th
    1st - - - - - - - - - -
    2nd - - - - - - - - - -
    3rd - - - - - - - - - -
    4th - - - - - - - - - -
    5th - - - - - - - - - -
    6th - - - - - - - - - -
    7th - - - - - - - - - -
    8th - - - - - - - - - -
    9th - - - - - - - - - -
    10th - - - - - - - - - -
    11th - - - - - - - - - -
    12th - - - - - - - - - -
    13th - - - - - - - - - -
    14th - - - - - - - - - -
    15th - - - - - - - - - -
    16th - - - - - - - - - -
    17th - - - - - - - - - -
    18th - - - - - - - - - -
    19th - - - - - - - - - -
    20th - - - - - - - - - -
    Code immediately below (spoiler)
    Spoiler
    Show
    [B]Spells per Day/Spells Known[/B]
    [table="class:head alt1 alt2"]
    [tr]
    [th][B]Level[/B][/th]
    [th][B]0lvl[/B][/th]
    [th][B]1st[/B][/th]
    [th][B]2nd[/B][/th]
    [th][B]3rd[/B][/th]
    [th][B]4th[/B][/th]
    [th][B]5th[/B][/th]
    [th][B]6th[/B][/th]
    [th][B]7th[/B][/th]
    [th][B]8th[/B][/th]
    [th][B]9th[/B][/th]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]1st[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]2nd[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]3rd[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]4th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]5th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]6th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]7th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]8th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]9th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]10th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]11th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]12th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]13th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]14th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]15th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]16th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]17th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]18th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]19th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [tr]
    [td]20th[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [td]-[/td]
    [/tr]
    [/table]
    For other systems (Psionics, ToB, Incarnum, etc.) keep track of PP/maneuvers/essentia separately, preferably in a nice neat list.

    mattie_p has also kindly made a Google Document that greatly assists with creating and formatting tables: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...it?usp=sharing

    Spoiler: Judging
    Show


    • Scoring: Each judge is required to provide the criteria by which they are judging the builds. By "criteria," we mean a simple explanation of what the judge is looking for in each of the below categories and what kind of scoring we can expect. If a judge deems a build to be illegal, they may provide a 0 in Elegance but may not refuse to judge any build presented by the Chairman.
    • The Categories: Judging will be based on the following criteria, with each build rated from 1 (very poor) to 5 (exemplary) in each area: Originality, Power, Elegance, Use of Components.

      • Originality: Is the build unique? Does it deviate from the obvious? Does it forge its own path, or does it fall back on common, established optimization tricks? Some judges score entries for the quality of their concept & backstory as well, though not all do. Providing at least some backstory is heavily encouraged, as it helps the judges figure out who the entry is. Note that the purpose of this category is not to penalize entries that independently came up with the same idea as another entry, but rather to reward entries that explore underutilized and non-obvious areas of optimization, so, judges, try not to base your judging in this category too heavily on what other builds are doing. Multiple entries using the same element may certainly be evidence that the element is unoriginal, but you shouldn't impose anything like a "-1 for each other build using the same class" penalty.
      • Power: Power level is up to you. Cheese is acceptable, but should be kept to a sane level unless you're showcasing a new TO build you've discovered. In the words of one of my predecessors, a little cheddar can be nice, but avoid the mature Gruyere unless you're making a cheese fondue.
      • Elegance: This category was formerly titled "Build Stability." Here, we're essentially measuring how skillfully you put your build together and how you balanced flavor with power. We're cooking here - if your dish doesn't taste good, it doesn't matter how well-presented it is. Use of flaws is an automatic loss of one point per flaw in this category. Other things that will cause lost points here are excessive multiclassing (meaning any multiclassing that results in an xp penalty), and classes that don't fit the concept - using Cloistered Cleric in a front-line melee fighter, for example, may lose you points. Rule adherence and legality of sources is scored under this category; additionally, reliance on a questionable, controversial, or ambiguous ruling can and should result in a deduction. Neither the number of sources nor their relative obscurity should be penalized--contestants should feel free to use any books they like. Dipping should not be penalized unless it results in a multiclass xp penalty; if the system won't penalize it, neither should judges.
      • Use of Components: Was the Forbidden Component avoided? Were the Necessary Components showcased, or simply used because they were necessary?
    • Note on scoring: if you are going to penalize an entry for something specific, it is strongly recommend that it only be penalized in one of the four categories for this - the one you feel is the most relevant. It is OK to put different penalties for different instances in their own category, but if, say, someone fails to qualify for a PrC, try not to ping them in Elegance and Power, for instance.
    • Disputes: Any scoring disputes will be posted by the Chairman in-thread after reviewing them privately. Valid disputes include
      • RAW misreadings,
      • arithmetic errors,
      • things missed that are present in the entry,
      • and inconsistently applied criteria.

      Note: only competitors are to raise disputes, and only on their own entry. If you, as a spectator, find an error in judging (or in an entry, for that matter), please hold off on comment until after the final reveal. Thank you.
    • Invalid disputes include
      • disagreements on matters of opinion,
      • a judge not catching something not explicitly presented in the entry,
      • and the like.

      Invalid disputes will be responded to via PM by the Chair, but valid disputes should be responded to by each individual judge. Judges are obligated to respond to disputes to ensure that everyone gets a fair shake. A judge's scores will only be recognized if they have recognized all disputes. In the absence of any other judges, the entries will be judged by the chairman.



    Completion Time:
    • Contestants will have until 23:59 GMT Monday July 18, 2022 to create their builds and PM them to the chairman (note: you are free to submit builds up until I start posting entries, even if this deadline has passed).
    • Builds will then be posted simultaneously to avoid copying.
    • Judges will have until 23:59 GMT Monday July 25, 2022 to judge the builds and submit their scores. Judging deadline is subject to extension as required.
    • As the precedent has been set from Episode 2, should all prospective judges have posted their rulings in a neat, timely fashion and all disputes have been settled satisfactorily (to either judges, contestants, or the Chairperson), the judging period may end prematurely to give way to a new episode. No reason to keep working on a finished building and avoid moving onto the next one.


    Looking for as many contestants and judges as feel like playing! We will award 1st through 3rd places, as well as a shout-out for honorable mention. The honorable mention prize is given to the most daring or unexpected build that doesn't gain a medal. Contestants are invited to vote for honorable mention via PM. Everyone else can vote in-thread. Ready? Set? Get to the junkyard and start building!

    On the subject of messaging the chair (me), a few guidelines:
    - I am not here to give critiques on your build or guess how the judges might score it!
    - For entries, please keep the entry to no more than 2 messages, if at all possible.
    - For entries, don't expect me to search through your entry and edit in or out material. Entries should be sent to me complete - if there is a later revision, re-submit the full build. PLEASE DON'T INCLUDE TEXT IN YOUR SUBMISSION YOU WANT ME TO EDIT OUT FOR THE POST - SUBMIT IT TO ME EXACTLY HOW I WILL POST THE FINISHED PRODUCT.
    - Please make sure the name of your entry is clearly present in the message.

    Spoiler: Previous Competitions
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    1. Junkyard Wars in the Playground I: Shadowdancer + Sneak Attack - Rogue
    2. Junkyard Wars in the Playground II: Healing Spells + Ruby Knight Vindicator - Cleric
    3. Junkyard Wars in the Playground III: Dragons + Theurges - Kobolds
    4. Junkyard Wars in the Playground IV: BoED + Undead Type - Completes
    5. Junkyard Wars in the Playground V: Dread Witch + Reaping Mauler - Fighter
    6. Junkyard Wars in the Playground VI: Wonderworker + Profession Skill - Factotum
    7. Junkyard Wars in the Playground VII: Metamagic Feats + LA - Metamagic Reducers!
    8. Junkyard Wars in the Playground VIII: Pounce+Small Size-Barbarian
    9. Junkyard Wars in the Playground IX: Earth Dreamer + Ordained Champion - Cleric
    10. Junkyard Wars in the Playground X: Meldshaping + Natural Attacks - Totemist
    11. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XI: Magical Darkness + Improved Familiar - Wizard
    12. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XII: Dragonmark Heirs + Touchstones - Martial Weapons
    13. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XIII: Mulhorandi Divine Minion + Monk - Any Other Wildshaping
    14. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XIV: Racial Paragon Classes + Spellcasting - Base Classes
    15. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XV: Ruathar + Stoneblessed - Human
    16. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XVI: Trapsmith + Combat Trapsmith - Rogue
    17. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XVII: Elemental Warrior + Jaunter - Fighter
    18. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XVIII: Argent Savant + Holy Scourge - Wizard
    19. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XIX: Incarnum Blade + Exotic Weapon Master - Spiked Chain
    20. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XX: Xorvintaal Exarch + The Pact-Bound Adept - Sorcerer
    21. Junkyard Wars in the Playground XXI: Rebuke Undead + Teamwork Benefits - [Divine] feats
    22. Junkyard Wars XXII: Battle Trickster + Magical Trickster - Uncanny Trickster
    23. Junkyard Wars XXIII: Spellwarp Sniper + Silver Pyromancer - Energy Substitution
    24. Junkyard Wars XXIV: Vow of Peace + Saint - Divine casting
    25. Junkyard Wars XXV: Silverwood Arcanist + Share Soulmeld - Soulcaster
    26. Junkyard Wars XXVI: RSL + ACF - PrCs
    27. Junkyard Wars XXVII: Unholy Scion + Mark - Affiliation
    28. Junkyard Wars XXVII: 1MF + CPA&A - T
    29. Junkyard Wars XXIX: Social Distancing Edition!
    30. Junkyard Wars XXX: Something a Little Spicy
    31. Junkyard Wars XXXI: Giddy-Up!
    32. Junkyard Wars XXXII: Theurge Without Theurge
    33. Junkyard Wars XXXIII: LotD + AF - Necropolitan
    34. Junkyard Wars XXXIV: SE + HoS - Soulmelds
    35. Junkyard Wars XXXV: Complete Class + Complete PrC - PHB Classes
    36. Junkyard Wars XXXVI: Vestige Binding + MWP - Binder
    37. Junkyard Wars XXXVII: Bone Collector + Necropotent - ToB
    38. Junkyard Wars XXXVIII: NPC Class + Prestige Class - Base Classes

    Last edited by Thurbane; 2022-07-08 at 07:19 PM.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Q1. Are Monk base class variants allowed?
    A2. No, any variants of the Monk base class are disallowed. No UA Monk variants, no Chaos Monk (which would also be disallowed as Dragon material anyway) etc.

    Q2. Does the ban extend to other classes with the word Monk in the title?
    A3. No, only the Monk base class and its variants.

    Q3. Are other base class adaptations allowed?
    A3. Yes, however be aware that judges may apply penalties if they feel you are using an adaptation that has little official support, has rules issues, or is poorly fleshed out in it's respective book.

    Q4. Why Evasion? Why not a more uniquely "Monk" ability like Ki Strike etc?
    A4. The last few rounds have suffered from a lack of entries. Things like Ki Strike shoehorn entries into a small number of entry methods. I am trying to see if having more open requirements attracts more entries.

    Q5. What about class features that emulate Evasion, without being called Evasion?
    A5. No, for this comp, the class feature must be called Evasion. However...
    A5. Special: if you can somehow get the Improved Evasion class feature without having Evasion, this counts as Evasion for this comp.

    Q7. Does it have to be the Evasion class feature? What about Evasion as a racial ability, or through a magic item, soul meld or spell?
    A7. No, it must specifically be the Evasion class feature.

    Q8. What if I have Evasion, but then trade it away for an ACF?
    A8. If the final character does not possess the Evasion or Improved Evasion class feature, it does not meet the reqs for this round.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Okay, I'm keen to see what i can do with this.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    I have some ideas, but I can't be sure I'll have enough time in the next month. We'll see.
    If you could make anything and everything welcome to the Zinc Saucier XLV: Figaro

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    I need to do a deep dive for this one. I swear there is a way to get the required ingredients without meeting the usual requirements, but I'm not finding them. Hopefully I wasn't thinking of something out of Dragon magazine. If I don't get a submission in, I am happy to judge, as always.
    Spoiler
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wings of Peace View Post
    "See these cookies? Note how while good they taste sort of bland. Now try these, they're the same cookies but with chocolate chips added. Notice how with the second batch we expended slightly more ingredients but dramatically enhanced the flavor? That's metamagic."
    Quote Originally Posted by Doc Roc View Post
    Seriously, can we kill this misconception now? A wizard is never late, nor is he early. He shops for precisely what he means to.


    Winner of Junkyard Wars 31.

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    DrowGuy

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    I think I'll make my entry for this round.
    Last edited by loky1109; 2022-06-28 at 04:37 PM.
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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Took me a while tweaking everything but I finally have a build I'm happy with for this competition. Now I just need to go to the effort of writing and formatting it up.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    this is kindaish a stupid question, but : if we substitute evasion for an alternate class feature, does it still count as qualification for the round?

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by ciopo View Post
    this is kindaish a stupid question, but : if we substitute evasion for an alternate class feature, does it still count as qualification for the round?
    Surely not, right?

    Thurbane, if you end up with a very low number of entries I can cook this round. I have an idea I'm not thrilled with, but it's probably good enough to submit if you end up running short on entries (though it'd be a shame to break my streak of always placing outside of the Iron Chef.)
    Screaming defiance with the last breath

    It would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as FREEDOM should not be highly rated.


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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by ciopo View Post
    this is kindaish a stupid question, but : if we substitute evasion for an alternate class feature, does it still count as qualification for the round?
    I wouldn't imagine so, unless you get Improved Evasion.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by ciopo View Post
    this is kindaish a stupid question, but : if we substitute evasion for an alternate class feature, does it still count as qualification for the round?
    Fair question but no: if you trade evasion away for an ACF, you don't meet the reqs of this round.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by Thurbane View Post
    Fair question but no: if you trade evasion away for an ACF, you don't meet the reqs of this round.
    What about class features that function as evasion but aren't evasion, like the Prescient Sense class feature. It acts as evasion, but doesn't have any restrictions on how heavy your armor can be.
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wings of Peace View Post
    "See these cookies? Note how while good they taste sort of bland. Now try these, they're the same cookies but with chocolate chips added. Notice how with the second batch we expended slightly more ingredients but dramatically enhanced the flavor? That's metamagic."
    Quote Originally Posted by Doc Roc View Post
    Seriously, can we kill this misconception now? A wizard is never late, nor is he early. He shops for precisely what he means to.


    Winner of Junkyard Wars 31.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by Thrice Dead Cat View Post
    What about class features that function as evasion but aren't evasion, like the Prescient Sense class feature. It acts as evasion, but doesn't have any restrictions on how heavy your armor can be.
    Q5. What about class features that emulate Evasion, without being called Evasion?
    A5. No, for this comp, the class feature must be called Evasion.
    I think that's already covered.
    Screaming defiance with the last breath

    It would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as FREEDOM should not be highly rated.


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    Thumbs up Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Update: deadline has been extended by 1 week.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by Thurbane View Post
    Update: deadline has been extended by 1 week.
    Well my entry is going quite well. My build and feats are all locked in, now I just need to finish checking tables, go over skill points, proof-read, and make sure my sourcebooks are all correct.

    Good luck to everyone else trying to enter.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Is it okay to ask how many entries have been submitted thus far?

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    One sent. Second in work. Table and all numbers are ready, need to write story.
    If you could make anything and everything welcome to the Zinc Saucier XLV: Figaro

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    While it shouldn't come as a notable surprise to anyone, Rogue2 gets Evasion in the same number of levels as Monk (Monk2) and normally gives better class features. Surreal's Lists of Stuff for 3.5 will likely help people.

    (I don't plan to enter this time, but offer this guidance for those who want it. Enjoy!)
    Quote Originally Posted by GPuzzle View Post
    And I do agree that the right answer to the magic/mundane problem is to make everyone badass.
    Quote Originally Posted by Flickerdart View Post
    If you're of a philosophical bent, the powergamer is a great example of Heidegger's modern technological man, who treats a game's mechanics as a standing reserve of undifferentiated resources that are to be used for his goals.
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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by Endarire View Post
    snip
    That's against the speculation rule. I'd delete that.
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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    I'm agree with H_H_F_F.

    And, anyway, it isn't full list.
    Last edited by loky1109; 2022-07-10 at 04:18 PM.
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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Apologies.
    Quote Originally Posted by GPuzzle View Post
    And I do agree that the right answer to the magic/mundane problem is to make everyone badass.
    Quote Originally Posted by Flickerdart View Post
    If you're of a philosophical bent, the powergamer is a great example of Heidegger's modern technological man, who treats a game's mechanics as a standing reserve of undifferentiated resources that are to be used for his goals.
    My Complete Tome of Battle Maneuver/Stance/Class Overhaul

    Arseplomancy = Fanatic Tarrasque!

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Thurbane, you need to clear your mailbox.
    If you could make anything and everything welcome to the Zinc Saucier XLV: Figaro

    My competition's medals.

    Spoiler: For purposes of clarity
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    1109 is September, 11 - my birthday.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Quote Originally Posted by loky1109 View Post
    Thurbane, you need to clear your mailbox.
    Done.

    I really wish this forum had a bigger PM limit

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    It's about one day to deadline!
    How's the entries, folks?
    If you could make anything and everything welcome to the Zinc Saucier XLV: Figaro

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    1109 is September, 11 - my birthday.

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    Thumbs up Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Hey everyone, I'm down with the COVID right now, but still hope to have the reveal posted for the updated deadline.

    If anyone needs further extension feel free to PM me.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    I wish you good health!
    If you could make anything and everything welcome to the Zinc Saucier XLV: Figaro

    My competition's medals.

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    1109 is September, 11 - my birthday.

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    I hope you recover quickly, Thurbane!
    Spoiler
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wings of Peace View Post
    "See these cookies? Note how while good they taste sort of bland. Now try these, they're the same cookies but with chocolate chips added. Notice how with the second batch we expended slightly more ingredients but dramatically enhanced the flavor? That's metamagic."
    Quote Originally Posted by Doc Roc View Post
    Seriously, can we kill this misconception now? A wizard is never late, nor is he early. He shops for precisely what he means to.


    Winner of Junkyard Wars 31.

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    Default Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Hope you have a speedy recovery, Thurbane.

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    Exclamation Re: Junkyard Wars XXXIX - SF + Evasion - Monk

    Thanks for the well wishes everyone.

    I've had 4 vaccine jabs, and I'm on antivirals due to other high risk factors I would have with COVID, and between those things, I'm doing OK at the moment.

    Anyhow, here's the reveal: please don't post until I give the all clear.

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    Default 1. Bansh, Hadozee Truespeak Warrior

    Bansh, Hadozee Truespeak Warrior

    Build Stub: Rogue 4/Warblade 9/Disciple of the Word 7

    Race: Hadozee. Size: Medium. Gender: Male. Alignment: Lawful Neutral. Patron Deity: Valkur
    HP: 149 Move Speed: 30ft (50ft) Initiative: 6 BAB: 17 Fort: 14 Ref: 14 (16) (45) Will: 13 (17) (25)
    Truespeak Check: 49

    Spoiler: Build Overview
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    Bansh combines melee combat and Truespeak in two ways. The first is through the “Word Given Form” martial art. This gives us a 50% miss chance our chosen "Dodge" target. At level 12, we can change our Dodge target as an immediate action. Every attack against us has that 50% miss chance. Given how the feat is worded, I’d argue this includes anything requiring an attack roll, including spells.

    The other way we combine combat and Truespeak is to enter the "Disciple of the Word". It's a melee PrC powered through Stunning Fist uses and Truespeak checks. Its abilities include increasing skill checks, boosting speed, bypassing damage reduction and dispelling magical effects.

    Spoiler: Base Stats
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    Level 1 (with racial adjustment): 15/14/14/14/14/8
    Level 20: 20/14/14/14/14/8
    Perfectly in keeping with how standard Monks work in 3rd Edition, we're quite MAD with our stats too. Let's go over our stat requirements.

    Strength: This dictates attack rolls and boosts damage. Dexterity: Dodge requires 13 DEX.
    Constitution: Our 50% miss chance against attacks is great, but opponents might bypass this, we could get bad rolls, some spells can bypass, and so forth. We're also a frontliner with a bunch of D6 and D8 hit dice. We’ll spend part of our point buy here.
    Intelligence: Combat Expertise requires 13 INT.
    Wisdom: Combat Focus requires 13 WIS.
    Charisma: The closest we get to a dump stat.

    Spoiler: Levelling Table
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    Level Class Base Attack Bonus Fort Save Ref Save Will Save Skills Feats Class Features
    1st Warblade 1 1 2 0 0 Balance 4, Climb 4, Concentration 4, Jump 4, Swim 4, Tumble 4 Race: Dodge
    1: Improved Unarmed Strike
    Battle Clarity, Weapon Aptitude
    2nd Adventure Rogue 1 1 2 2 0 Balance 5, Climb 5, Jump 5, Spot 5, Swim 5, Tumble 5 AR: Mobility Trapfinding
    3rd Adventure Rogue 2 2 2 3 0 Jump 6, Spot 6, Swim 6, Truespeak 6, Tumble 6 3: Truespeak Training
    AR: Combat Focus
    Evasion
    4th Warblade 2 3 3 3 0 Concentration 7, Jump 7, Truespeak 7, Tumble 7 Uncanny Dodge
    5th Warblade 3 4 3 4 1 Concentration 8, Jump 8, Swim 8, Truespeak 8, Tumble 8 Battle Ardor
    6th Adventure Rogue 3 5 4 4 2 Balance 8, Climb 8, Jump 9, Spot 7, Truespeak 9, Tumble 9 6: Spring Attack Trap Sense +1
    7th Adventure Rogue 4 6 4 5 2 Balance 10, Climb 10, Jump 10, Spot 9, Swim 9, Truespeak 10, Tumble 10 AR: Combat Expertise
    8th Warblade 4 7 5 5 2 Concentration 11, Jump 11, Truespeak 11, Tumble 11
    9th Warblade 5 8 5 5 2 Balance 11, Climb 11, Concentration 12, Jump 12, Truespeak 12, Tumble 12 9: Stunning Fist
    W: Improved Initiative
    Martial Art: Word Given Form
    10th Disciple of the Word 1 8 7 7 4 Balance 12, Climb 12, Concentration 13, Jump 13, Truespeak 13, Tumble 13 Word of Movement Sublime
    11th Disciple of the Word 2 9 8 8 5 Balance 13, Climb 13, Concentration 14, Jump 14, Truespeak 14, Tumble 14 Word of the Stance Unyielding
    12th Disciple of the Word 3 10 8 8 5 Balance 14, Climb 14, Concentration 15, Jump 15, Truespeak 15, Tumble 15 12: Combat Defense Word of the Health Restored
    13th Disciple of the Word 4 11 9 9 6 Balance 15, Climb 15, Concentration 16, Jump 16, Truespeak 16, Tumble 16 Word of Movement Perfected
    14th Disciple of the Word 5 11 9 9 6 Balance 16, Climb 16, Concentration 17, Jump 17, Truespeak 17, Tumble 17 Word of Reflexes Exalted
    15th Disciple of the Word 6 12 10 10 7 Balance 17, Climb 17, Concentration 18, Jump 18, Truespeak 18, Tumble 18 15: Superior Unarmed Strike Word of Strike Unstoppable
    16th Disciple of the Word 7 13 10 10 7 Balance 18, Climb 18, Concentration 19, Jump 19, Truespeak 19, Tumble 19 Word of the Fist Unravelling
    17th Warblade 6 14 11 11 8 Balance 19, Climb 19, Concentration 20, Jump 20, Truespeak 20, Tumble 20 Improved Uncanny Dodge
    18th Warblade 7 15 11 11 8 Balance 20, Climb 20, Concentration 21, Jump 21, Truespeak 21, Tumble 21 18: Combat Vigor Battle Cunning
    19th Warblade 8 16 12 11 8 Balance 21, Climb 21, Concentration 22, Jump 22, Truespeak 22, Tumble 22
    20th Warblade 9 17 12 12 9 Balance 22, Climb 22, Concentration 23, Jump 23, Truespeak 23, Tumble 23 W: Iron Will

    Spoiler: Manoeuvres and Stances
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    Warblade 1, Level 1 (IL 1): Moment of Perfect Mind (Diamond Mind), Wolf Fang Strike (Tiger Claw), Sudden Leap (Tiger Claw), Punishing Stance (Tiger Claw)
    Warblade 2, Level 4 (IL 3): Wall of Blades (Iron Heart)
    Warblade 3, Level 5 (IL 4): Rabid Wolf Strike (Tiger Claw)
    Warblade 4, Level 8 (IL 6): Replace Wolf Fang Strike with Soaring Raptor Strike (Tiger Claw), Pearl of Black Doubt Stance (Diamond Mind)
    Warblade 5, Level 9 (IL 7): Insightful Strike (Diamond Mind)
    Warblade 6, Level 17 (IL 11): Nil
    Warblade 7, Level 18 (IL 12): Greater Insightful Strike (Diamond Mind)
    Warblade 8, Level 19 (IL 13): Trade Rabid Wolf Strike for Rabid Bear Strike (Tiger Claw)
    Warblade 9, Level 20 (IL 14): Swooping Dragon Strike (Tiger Claw)


    Spoiler: Character Overview
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    Bansh is a Hadozee in action and heart. He's cheerful, sometimes to the point of obnoxiousness, brave, inquisitive, and always up for adventure. He loves life on the sea, calling into port and meeting with other Hadozee living on the coast, whom he’s staunchly loyal to, but he'll go anywhere interesting experiences are had. He’s also highly expressive in his emotions.

    Bansh is Lawful Neutral and worships Valkur, god of sailors. He won’t risk without for Good sufficient personal motivation, unless it involves a group of Hadozee in trouble. Bansh is Lawful, but is selective of the laws he follows. He feels there's no space for wilfulness on a sailing ship, and he’ll cheerfully abide by the rules of any group of Hadozee he’s with. If he doesn’t agree with other laws, he'll sail to the next port and hope that life and the laws there are more to his tastes.

    Spoiler: Level 5
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    So, why a Hadozee? The Hadozee have a lot of fun flavour and they're a cool-looking race. We get a bonus to one of our preferred stats, and a negative to our one dump stat. Having Rogue as a favored class means we avoid multiclassing penalties. An innate glide speed and racial bonuses to balance and climb are appreciated. We also get Dodge as a bonus feat (see p151 of Stormwrack), one of the feats we need for “Word Given Form”.

    Warblade gives us some manoeuvres and a stance. Adventure Rogue gives us some bonus feats and Evasion, all of which we need for Disciple of the Word. Our fourth-level stat point improves our STR to 16, which ups damage and accuracy.

    Feats and Class Features
    Dodge: It’s our racial feat, we need it for the “Word Given Form” martial art. While it’s a situational +1 to AC for now, this is one build you're going to be happy you have this feat.
    Improved Unarmed Strike: We can attack opponents with unarmed attacks and do lethal damage. It’s also necessary for both the “Disciple of the Word” Prestige Class and the “Word Given Form” Martial Art.
    Battle Clarity: this boosts Reflex saves when we’re not flat-footed, which is neat.
    Mobility: A bonus to AC moving in and out of threatened areas. We also need this for the “Word Given Form” martial art.
    Truespeak Training: Truespeak as a class skill. We need full ranks in this to get the Word Given Form Martial Art at level 9, and we don't want to waste our skill points while trying to enter Disciple of the Word.
    Combat Focus: +2 to Will saves during combat, and we need this for Combat Defense and Combat Vigor. We have enough spare feats to pick this up and still get “Word Given Form” at level 9.
    Evasion: We need this to enter Disciple of the Word prestige class. This will be extremely handy and makes it worth considering light armor, even with our middling dexterity.
    Uncanny Dodge: Retaining dex to AC against flatfooted and invisible enemies means we’re not worried about sneak attack damage.
    Battle Ardor: A slight boost to our crit chances, which is nice.

    Manoeuvres and Stances
    Moment of Perfect Mind: we can substitute a Will save for a Concentration check. This is really useful even after we shore our Will save up with multiple feats that we take later.
    Wolf Fang Strike: two attacks in one turn and we don’t have to worry about the regular TWF penalties.
    Sudden Leap: Swift-action movement is always appreciated. This combines well with the first level of Disciple of the Word at level 10, which lets us substitute a Jump check for a Truespeak check if we really want to move considerable distances
    but get a full attack off.
    Punishing Stance: A nice early-game boost to damage.
    Wall of Blades: This gives us another chance to dodge opponent attacks, just in case "Word Given Form" doesn't work and a particularly strong melee attack comes our way.
    Rabid Wolf Strike: this gives us bonus damage to our attacks.

    Skills Overview
    Balance: We get a bonus on this skill due to our race. It’s also good flavour for a monk and for a sailing character.
    Climb: We get some good bonuses to climbing, such as a racial bonus to the skill, not losing dexterity to AC, and being able to hold an item while climbing without issue. We also get to glide and negate any fall damage. It’s also good flavour for a monk and for a sailing character.
    Concentration: Mechanically, it’s required for Insightful Strike and Greater Insightful Strike. It’s also good flavour for a monk, and for a sailor who might spend hours scanning the horizons looking for important sights.
    Jump: It powers our Tiger Claw strikes. It’s also good flavour for a monk and for a sailor.
    Swim: given that we’re spending much of our life on the water, we at least want a modicum of swimming ability in case we need to explore underwater or fall overboard.
    Spot: it’s always good to be able to see problems as early as possible, especially out on the open water.
    Truespeak: you can’t have a Truespeak warrior without this skill.
    Tumble: This is a key skill. First, we need it for our manoeuvres, and getting around or through enemies without provoking attacks of opportunity. Second, we need this for our Word Given Form martial art and for Disciple of the Word. Lastly, it’s good flavour for a monk and for a sailor.

    Level 5 Skill Checks
    Balance 5, Climb 5, Concentration 8, Jump 8, Spot 6, Swim 8, Truespeak 8, Tumble 8 (Does not include stat bonuses or skill synergies)

    Spoiler: Level 10
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    Two levels of Adventure Rogue and two Warblade levels prep us for Disciple of the Word, which we start at 10th level. We're taken Rogue at levels 6 and 7 to help get 10 ranks in Knowledge (Geography) and Knowledge (Nature).

    The suggested entry for Disciple of the Word involves taking two levels of Monk, since you get Stunning Fist early. The obvious question arises: why try a Disciple of the Word build without Monk levels? Adventure Rogue gives us more feats over four levels, helping with minimizing BAB loss, beating out the Monk's two over two levels. Rogue has more skill points as well. Our Warblade manoeuvres help give us more options in combat, including improved offensive ability. We can also more easily afford to improve our Truespeak ability with items to match relevant benchmarks when we enter the class late. Our delay even gives us the spare feats to get Combat Defense at level 12, greatly boosting the effectiveness of the “Word Given Form” Martial Art.

    Lastly, let's go over Disciple of the Word prestige class, since we're about to enter the class. The entry feats show this class is intended to be a Truespeak-flavoured Monk prestige class, but there are two glaring loopholes to this. The first loophole is that none of the class abilities specify that you need to make unarmed attacks to get the abilities. We'll assume that we're still punching stuff with our fists though, but it’s not necessary. You can just as easily use the skills of a Disciple of the Word with any melee weapon. The second loophole is that you only have a minimal penalty for not being unarmored – you might lose a Monk’s +1 to AC while being unarmored. We’ll likely want light armor to make use of our Evasion skill though, given how high our dex is, but we can also go with medium armor if we want a further boost to AC.

    Feats and Class Features
    Spring Attack: This gives us the ability to move, attack an enemy once, and move away to force them to move to us. It's not explicit how this ability works with our various Warblade manoeuvres – I’d presume they don’t – but in any case, we need this for the “Word Given Form” martial art.
    Combat Expertise: This can help us trade attack accuracy for an AC bonus. This is the last feat we need for “Word Given Form” Martial Art, which we will reach the skill rank prerequisites for at level 9.
    Stunning Fist: We need this to enter the Disciple of the Word prestige class. Rather than attempting to stun enemies, we’ll be using Stunning Fist uses to power the class abilities of a Disciple of the Word.
    Improved Initiative: When we get our first turn, not only are we not flatfooted, we get to designate our Dodge target (and get that 50% dodge chance and +1 AC), and we get our bonus to Will saves.
    Word Given Form Martial Art: We get this as a bonus at level 9 for our combination of feats. When using the Dodge Feat against an opponent, we get total concealment, or 50% miss chance against an opponent.
    Word of Movement Sublime: We can use a Truespeak check in place of a Balance, Jump or Tumble check. This is pretty neat since we're investing heavily into Truespeak skills and we can eventually reach epic skill checks levels for Balance and Tumble. As for Jump, our Tiger Claw strikes are based on this, so being able to use our Truespeak check for this in place of Jump is extremely handy.

    Manoeuvres and Stances
    Soaring Raptor Strike: this only specifically works against larger foes, but larger are common at higher levels, and it is decent bonus damage.
    Pearl of Black Doubt Stance: generally a sub-par stance, this works especially well for our specific build. Every time we dodge an opponent’s melee attack, we get +2 Dodge bonus to our AC for our turn. With the "Word Given Form" martial art, and especially after getting Combat Defense at level 12, it's going to be easy to boost our AC multiple times for the rest of the round.
    Insightful Strike: We’ll do our Concentration check in damage. Pretty neat and has a small amount of scaling for us while we take levels in "Disciple of the Word"

    Level 10 Skill Checks
    Balance 12, Climb 12, Concentration 13, Jump 13, Spot 9, Swim 9, Truespeak 13, Tumble 13 (Does not include stat bonuses or skill synergies)

    Level 10 Truespeak Check
    As a Disciple of the Word, we’re going to have to direct some of our build resources into boosting our Truespeak check. For now, a Greater Amulet of Silver Tongue for 10K will be a great buy and used for the rest of our adventuring career, but we can get away with not having this item until level 11.

    Ranks – 13
    Intelligence – 2
    Amulet of Silver Tongue, Greater – 10

    Truespeak Check – 25

    Spoiler: Level 15
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    Five more levels of Disciple of the Word. We reach 18 STR at level 12, which is nice for the extra accuracy and damage.

    The high point of our build is arguably Level 12. Not that we don't have great things planned for later levels, but we've got the main ingredients of our build all together. We’ve got the Word Given Form ability along with Combat Defense, applying our 50% dodge chance to every attack we face. We have Pearl of Black Doubt stance, which has great synergy with Word Given Form to boost AC by two per missed attack. We have the starting levels of Disciple of the Word, giving us great bonuses to Balance, Jump, Tumble, and several melee-based Strength checks, and we've also got a few third-level manoeuvres to assist us offensively and defensively.

    Feats and Class Features
    Word of the Stance Unyielding: We can get a really high Truespeak check and that’s going to help resisting grapples, bull rushes, and disarming attempts.
    Combat Defense: This makes Dodge apply to any opponent as an immediate action. Combined with the “Word Given Form” Martial Art we get next level, every opponent we face now has to deal with the 50% miss chance with their attacks, rather than just one opponent each turn. Oh, and it goes well with our Pearl of Black Doubt stance, we temporarily boost our AC by +2 for each miss.
    Word of Health Restored: As a full-round action we can heal our character level in HP. Our Truespeak check won't be enough to meet the requirements of the skill to use it all the time without issue, even by level 20, but it's good out-of-combat in situations where you have a bit of spare time but don’t have access to healing items.
    Word of Movement Perfected: We can easily pass a DC 25 Truespeak check to get boost our movement. This gives us 20ft extra movement and lets us walk on any surface, including walls, as long as we end our turn on a horizontal surface. It also stacks with other movement bonuses, such as Haste.
    Word of Reflexes Exalted: We can substitute a Truespeak check in place of a Reflex saving throw. This also gives us the opportunity to reroll a natural 1 Reflex save, our skill is naturally quite high and you can’t fail a skill check. This also rather well with the Evasion ability we have.
    Superior Unarmed Strike: This greatly improves attack damage.
    Word of Strike Unstoppable: A flat Truespeak 45 check bypasses epic damage resistance. It’s worth noting that this says it applies to a melee strike, so can be combined with Strikes from Tome of Battle without issue.

    Level 15 Skills
    Balance 17, Climb 17, Concentration 18, Jump 18, Spot 9, Swim 9, Truespeak 18, Tumble 18 (Does not include stat bonuses or skill synergies)

    Level 15 Truespeak Check
    During our adventures, we'll want a custom Ring of Truespeak +14, and this will last us until the end of our adventuring career. We'll want to pick this up before level 15 to help with "Word of Strike Unstoppable". The Ring of Truespeak is a custom competence item (Dungeon Master’s Guide, p285). The pricing formula is a reference, the DM decides how it might actually be priced, and if they’re allowed in a game. We don’t need a custom Truespeak ring higher than this – we’d prefer to boost our capabilities elsewhere.

    Ranks – 18
    Intelligence – 2
    Amulet of Silver Tongue, Greater – 10
    Custom Ring of Truespeak +14 – 14

    Truespeak Check – 44

    Spoiler: Level 20
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    We stop taking Disciple of the Word at 16th level, and shore up our offensive abilities, finishing off with four more Warblade levels and getting some higher-level manoeuvres. We also reach 20 STR at level 20, which gives a boost to accuracy and damage.

    Let’s go over the rest of our feats and class features:

    Word of the Unravelling Fist: We gain the ability to dispel an opponent’s highest-level effect. This is a great way to weaken a buffed opponent, or take away the power of a crucial magical item. It’s also a great point to leave the class at. And, again, this applies to strikes and can be combined with Tome of Battle and our Warblade strikes without issue.
    Improved Uncanny Dodge: We can’t be flanked, slightly boosting our defensive prowess.
    Combat Vigor: Since we already have two combat form feats (Combat Focus and Combat Defense) this feat gives us Fast Healing 4, another +2 to our will save, and another +1 to our AC.
    Battle Cunning: A slight boost to crit confirmation rolls. It's a small flavourful bonus
    Iron Will: +2 to our Will saves is always appreciated and stacks with the bonuses we get from Combat Focus.

    Manoeuvres and Stances
    Greater Insightful Strike: it’s like Insight Strike, but we get to double our Concentration check. It would be worth a small investment in an item that boosts Concentration for the extra damage that it does for this and Insightful Strike, but this isn’t assumed in the build.
    Rabid Bear Strike: a melee attack that does an extra 10d6 damage. Neat.
    Swooping Dragon Strike: in an amusing turn of events, we can use a Stunning Fist use to do a Truespeak check in place of a Jump check, which we can then use to stun an enemy. Instead of Stunning Fist doing regular unarmed damage and having roughly a DC of 20, our Stunning Fist ends up doing 10d6 extra damage and have a DC of 49 for our stunning attack.

    Level 20 Skills
    Balance 22, Climb 22, Concentration 23, Jump 23, Spot 9, Swim 9, Truespeak 23, Tumble 23 (Does not include stat bonuses or skill synergies)

    Level 20 Truespeak Check
    Ranks – 23
    Intelligence – 2
    Amulet of Silver Tongue, Greater – 10
    Custom Ring of Truespeak +14 – 14
    Truespeak Check – 49

    Spoiler: Sourcebooks
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    Dungeon Master’s Guide: Custom competence item formula (Ring of Truespeak)
    Player's Handbook: Combat Expertise, Dodge, Improved Initiative, Improved Unarmed Strike, Iron Will, Mobility, Spring Attack, and Stunning Fist feats, Rogue base classes
    Player's Handbook II: Combat Defense, Combat Focus, and Combat Vigor feats
    Stormwrack: Hadozee Race (p151), Valkur Deity
    Tome of Battle: Warblade base class, Warblade stances and strikes, Superior Unarmed Strike feat
    Tome of Magic: Truespeak skill, Truespeak Training feat, Disciple of the Word Prestige Class, Word Given Form Martial Art, Amulet of Silver Tongue, Greater Item
    Unearthed Arcana: Adventurer Rogue alternate class features

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