Drow Blademaster: Difference between revisions

From Epic Path
Jump to navigation Jump to search
m (Text replacement - "{{Malady | Name = | Intensity = | Save-Type = | Save-Mod = | Frequency = | Effect = | Fruition = | F-Duration = }} --> <!-- COMBAT TACTICS -->" to "{{Malady | Name = | Intensity = | Save-Type = | Save-Mod = | Freque...)
No edit summary
 
(35 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 3: Line 3:


| CR=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|CR}}}
| CR=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|CR}}}
| CR | 8
| CR | 5
   <!-- Value: integer between 1 and 40. -->
   <!-- Value: integer between 1 and 40. -->
   }}</onlyinclude>
   }}</onlyinclude>
| Min-CR = 2
| Max-CR = 10


| MonsterName=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|MonsterName}}}
| MonsterName=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|MonsterName}}}
Line 23: Line 26:
| Role=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|Role}}}
| Role=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|Role}}}
| Role |  
| Role |  
   <!-- Values: Heavy, Killer, Leader, Legend, Minion, Shooter, Skirmisher, Sneak, Tank, Threat, Villain, or leave blank -->
   <!-- Values: Heavy, Killer, Leader, Legend, Minion, Shooter, Skirmisher, Sneak, Swarm, Tank, Threat, Villain, or leave blank -->


   }}</onlyinclude>
   }}</onlyinclude>
Line 37: Line 40:
| Restrict-Role-Skirmisher =  
| Restrict-Role-Skirmisher =  
| Restrict-Role-Sneak =  
| Restrict-Role-Sneak =  
| Restrict-Role-Swarm =
| Restrict-Role-Tank =  
| Restrict-Role-Tank =  
| Restrict-Role-Threat =  
| Restrict-Role-Threat =  
Line 56: Line 60:
| Description | Even compared to the normal levels of arrogance and pride among the Drow, Blademasters are extremes.  Male children, chosen as they are birthed from the Great Coccoons by a dark, bloody lottery, Blademasters are raised with only one mission: to die before their consort dies.  They are relentlessly trained in warfare, medicine, tracking and intrigue to ensure the safety of their consorts.   
| Description | Even compared to the normal levels of arrogance and pride among the Drow, Blademasters are extremes.  Male children, chosen as they are birthed from the Great Coccoons by a dark, bloody lottery, Blademasters are raised with only one mission: to die before their consort dies.  They are relentlessly trained in warfare, medicine, tracking and intrigue to ensure the safety of their consorts.   


:On their first nameday, the male children selected to become Blademasters are fitted with bladed gloves which are locked onto their wrists.  They wear these gloves until their hands grow too large to continue, typically around 10 years, touching nothing except through the use of the attached blades.  To survive they must quickly learn how not to cut themselves to ribbons, and several children die each year trying to figure out how to feed and care for themselves without injury.  Those that survive learn to treat the blades as literal extensions of their arms.
On their first nameday, the male children selected to become Blademasters are fitted with bladed gloves which are locked onto their wrists.  They wear these gloves until their hands grow too large to continue, typically around 10 years, touching nothing except through the use of the attached blades.  To survive they must quickly learn how not to cut themselves to ribbons, and several children die each year trying to figure out how to feed and care for themselves without injury.  Those that survive learn to treat the blades as literal extensions of their arms.


:Training in bladed combat continues for another 55 years before a Blademaster is considered ready to be assigned to a consort, which happens on their 66th nameday.  On this day, they consign their soul to their consort through a lengthy ritual (whose details are not for the squeamish or prudish), and are tattooed with a magical ink which lets them feel any pain their consort feels (though not to a degree which would impair the Blademaster, only to notify him).  This tattoo also enables their consorts to compel them to act to a limited degree, though few consorts ever need to resort to this to ensure obedience. The tattoo's primary purpose, aside from marking the Blademaster's chattelhood to the consort, is to allow the consort to override an external compulsion, should one ever occur.
Training in bladed combat continues for another 55 years before a Blademaster is considered ready to be assigned to a consort, which happens on their 66th nameday.  On this day, they consign their soul to their consort through a lengthy ritual (whose details are not for the squeamish or prudish), and are tattooed with a magical ink which lets them feel any pain their consort feels (though not to a degree which would impair the Blademaster, only to notify him).  This tattoo also enables their consorts to compel them to act to a limited degree, though few consorts ever need to resort to this to ensure obedience. The tattoo's primary purpose, aside from marking the Blademaster's chattelhood to the consort, is to allow the consort to override an external compulsion, should one ever occur.


:It should be noted that there are many male Drow children churned out by the Great Coccoons, and they are often chosen to be Blademasters, and many of them even survive.  Drow females, however, are exceedingly rare, and are often assigned multiple Blademasters to protect them from danger.  As a result, despite the extensive training and well-deserved arrogance of the Blademasters, they are taught that their lives are worth only as much as their death can buy. This doesn't make them suicidal, but it does make them perpetually on the lookout for a death that would grant their consort greater standing in Drow society.
It should be noted that there are many male Drow children churned out by the Great Coccoons, and they are often chosen to be Blademasters, and many of them even survive.  Drow females, however, are exceedingly rare, and are often assigned multiple Blademasters to protect them from danger.  As a result, despite the extensive training and well-deserved arrogance of the Blademasters, they are taught that their lives are worth only as much as their death can buy. This doesn't make them suicidal, but it does make them perpetually on the lookout for a death that would grant their consort greater standing in Drow society.


:Blademasters are always healthy specimens of the male Drow, who move with confidence and grace.  They are arrogant to a fault, but also ruthlessly dedicated to their consort's continued well-being.  Like all Drow, Blademasters make extensive use of poisons, but they are unique in having perfected the act of re-poisoning a blade mid-combat.
Blademasters are always healthy specimens of the male Drow, who move with confidence and grace.  They are arrogant to a fault, but also ruthlessly dedicated to their consort's continued well-being.  Like all Drow, Blademasters make extensive use of poisons, but they are unique in having perfected the act of re-poisoning a blade mid-combat.
   }}</onlyinclude>
   }}</onlyinclude>


Line 77: Line 81:
| Type=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|Type}}}
| Type=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|Type}}}
| Type | Fey
| Type | Fey
   <!-- Values: Aberration, Animal, Construct, Dragon, Fey, Humanoid, Incorporeal, Magical Beast, Monstrous Humanoid, Ooze, Outsider, Plant, Protean, Swarm, Troop, Undead, Vermin -->
   <!-- Values: Aberration, Animal, Construct, Dragon, Fey, Humanoid, Incorporeal, Magical Beast, Monstrous Humanoid, Ooze, Outsider, Plant, Protean, Undead, Vermin -->
   }}</onlyinclude>
   }}</onlyinclude>


| Subtype=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|Subtype}}}
| Subtype=<onlyinclude>{{#ifeq:{{{transcludesection|Subtype}}}
| Subtype | Drow
| Subtype | Drow
   <!-- If second monster type (e.g. a swarm of vermin): Aberration, Animal, Construct, Dragon, Fey, Humanoid, Incorporeal, Magical Beast, Monstrous Humanoid, Ooze, Outsider, Plant, Protean, Swarm, Troop, Undead, Vermin -->
   <!-- If second monster type: Aberration, Animal, Construct, Dragon, Fey, Humanoid, Incorporeal, Magical Beast, Monstrous Humanoid, Ooze, Outsider, Plant, Protean, Undead, Vermin -->
   <!-- If Humanoid: Duergar, Giant, Gloom, Gnoll, Human, Kobold, Lizardfolk, Maenad, Norker, Orc, Somber Crool, Troglodyte, Vampire Thrall -->
   <!-- If Humanoid: Duergar, Giant, Gloom, Gnoll, Human, Kobold, Lizardfolk, Maenad, Norker, Orc, Somber Crool, Troglodyte, Vampire Thrall -->
   <!-- If Outsider: Air, Chaotic, Demon, Devil, Earth, Elemental, Evil, Fire, Good, Lawful, Native, Water -->
   <!-- If Outsider: Air, Chaotic, Demon, Devil, Earth, Elemental, Evil, Fire, Good, Lawful, Native, Water -->
Line 194: Line 198:
   <!-- Put any 'immunity' or 'hardened' values here;
   <!-- Put any 'immunity' or 'hardened' values here;
         immunities based on type (e.g. Vermin) or role (e.g. Threat) are automatically added
         immunities based on type (e.g. Vermin) or role (e.g. Threat) are automatically added
           '''''Hardened (damage):'''''
           '''''Hardened (1/2 damage):'''''
           '''''Immune (no effect):'''''                                                                  -->
           '''''Immune (no effect):'''''                                                                  -->


Line 252: Line 256:


| NudgeSpace =  
| NudgeSpace =  
   <!-- Values: any positive or negative number, or leave blank. Max recommended is +/-2. This is number of SQUARES; will be converted to feet.               -->
   <!-- Values: any positive or negative number, or leave blank. Max recommended is +/-2. This is number of SQUARES; will be converted to feet.
  <!-- NOTE: If type or subtype is "Swarm", the space will default to 10 ft.                                                                                 -->
        NOTE: If role is "Swarm", only put the space occupied by the COMPONENT CREATURE, NOT the space of the swarm, troop, or horde.
  <!-- NOTE: If type or subtype is "Troop", the space will default to 15 ft. + the normal space for the component creature size (e.g. 20 ft. for size medium) -->
        NOTE: Swarms default to 10 feet. Troops default to 15 ft. + the normal space for the component creature size (e.g. 20 ft. for size medium) -->


| NudgeReach =  
| NudgeReach =  
   <!-- Values: any positive or negative number, or leave blank. Max recommended is +/-2. This is number of SQUARES; will be converted to feet.     -->
   <!-- Values: any positive or negative number, or leave blank. Max recommended is +/-2. This is number of SQUARES; will be converted to feet.
  <!-- NOTE: If type or subtype is "Swarm", the reach will default to 0 ft.                                                                         -->
        NOTE: If role is "Swarm", only put the reach of the COMPONENT CREATURE, NOT the reach of the swarm, troop, or horde.
  <!-- NOTE: If type or subtype is "Troop", the reach will default to the normal reach for the component creature size (e.g. 5 ft. for size medium) -->
        NOTE: Swarms default to 0 ft. Troops default to the normal reach for the component creature size (e.g. 5 ft. for size medium) -->




Line 299: Line 303:


| PriAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
| PriAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone" or "swarm") -->
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone") -->


| NudgePriToHit =  
| NudgePriToHit =  
Line 342: Line 346:


| SecAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
| SecAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone" or "swarm") -->
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone") -->


| NudgeSecToHit =  
| NudgeSecToHit =  
Line 385: Line 389:


| TerAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
| TerAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone" or "swarm") -->
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone") -->


| NudgeTerToHit =  
| NudgeTerToHit =  
Line 428: Line 432:


| QuaAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
| QuaAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone" or "swarm") -->
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone") -->


| NudgeQuaToHit =  
| NudgeQuaToHit =  
Line 480: Line 484:


| RangedAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
| RangedAtkIsAuto-Hit =  
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone" or "swarm") -->
   <!-- If attack has no to-hit roll; leave blank (for normal to-hits), or describe (e.g. "30-foot cone") -->


| NudgeRangedToHit = 1
| NudgeRangedToHit = 1
Line 591: Line 595:
<!--  SPECIAL ABILITIES  -->
<!--  SPECIAL ABILITIES  -->


<!--  ROLE-BASED SPECIAL ABILITIES -->
| HideRoleReminder1 =
  <!-- Roles only; Values: Y (for yes) or leave blank (to leave reminder (if any) displayed) -->
| HideRoleReminder2 =
  <!-- Roles only; Values: Y (for yes) or leave blank (to leave reminder (if any) displayed) -->
| HideRoleReminder3 =
  <!-- Roles only; Values: Y (for yes) or leave blank (to leave reminder (if any) displayed) -->
| HideRoleReminder4 =
  <!-- Roles only; Values: Y (for yes) or leave blank (to leave reminder (if any) displayed) -->




Line 614: Line 604:
| Ability-1-Type = Ex
| Ability-1-Type = Ex
   <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance" -->
   <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance" -->
| Ability-1-Action-Required = Automatic
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-1-Concentration =  
| Ability-1-Concentration =  
Line 654: Line 648:
| Ability-2-Type = Su
| Ability-2-Type = Su
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-2-Action-Required = Immediate Action 1/Rnd
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-2-Concentration =  
| Ability-2-Concentration =  
Line 660: Line 658:
| Ability-2-Description = The blademaster may attempt to intercept an attack meant for his consort, taking only half damage in the process.
| Ability-2-Description = The blademaster may attempt to intercept an attack meant for his consort, taking only half damage in the process.


: Once per round as an immediate action, if the blademaster's consort is targeted with an attack, the blademaster may move up to 15 feet to any legal square adjacent to his consort.  He then moves into the consort's space, the consort moves into the adjacent space he just left, and the blademaster becomes the target of the attack instead.  Then, the blademaster rolls an attack roll, with his Blademaster bonus if he qualifies for it in his new current square.  If the blademaster's attack roll equals or exceeds the to-hit roll or save DC of the attack made against his consort, the attack is resolved as though the blademaster were the intended target, but the blademaster takes only half damage from the attack.  If this attack roll fails, the blademaster is automatically struck and takes normal damage.  Succeed or fail, the consort takes no damage from the attack, unless the attack has a secondary effect which could still reach her (such as Cleave or Flaming Burst).
Once per round as an immediate action, if the blademaster's consort is targeted with an attack, the blademaster may move up to 15 feet to any legal square adjacent to his consort.  He then moves into the consort's space, the consort moves into the adjacent space he just left, and the blademaster becomes the target of the attack instead.  Then, the blademaster rolls an attack roll, with his Blademaster bonus if he qualifies for it in his new current square.  If the blademaster's attack roll equals or exceeds the to-hit roll or save DC of the attack made against his consort, the attack is resolved as though the blademaster were the intended target, but the blademaster takes only half damage from the attack.  If this attack roll fails, the blademaster is automatically struck and takes normal damage.  Succeed or fail, the consort takes no damage from the attack, unless the attack has a secondary effect which could still reach her (such as Cleave or Flaming Burst).


: This ability may only be used against attacks specifically targeting the blademaster's consort, not one which merely includes her in its effects (such as a fireball spell).  Furthermore, a successful use of Intercede cannot cause an attack to become invalid, even if the blademaster wouldn't normally be a valid target.  For example, if the attack would normally only work against female creatures, it would get resolved against the blademaster despite this, because Intercede cannot cause an attack to become invalid.
This ability may only be used against attacks specifically targeting the blademaster's consort, not one which merely includes her in its effects (such as a fireball spell).  Furthermore, a successful use of Intercede cannot cause an attack to become invalid, even if the blademaster wouldn't normally be a valid target.  For example, if the attack would normally only work against female creatures, it would get resolved against the blademaster despite this, because Intercede cannot cause an attack to become invalid.


: If the blademaster cannot move adjacent to his consort with 15 feet of move, he cannot use this ability (and he should be ashamed of himself for allowing her to wander beyond his reach).  If multiple blademasters are present, this ability may only be attempted by one of them per attack attempted against their consort.  The GM may choose which blademaster will make the Intercede or roll randomly to determine.
If the blademaster cannot move adjacent to his consort with 15 feet of move, he cannot use this ability (and he should be ashamed of himself for allowing her to wander beyond his reach).  If multiple blademasters are present, this ability may only be attempted by one of them per attack attempted against their consort.  The GM may choose which blademaster will make the Intercede or roll randomly to determine.




Line 700: Line 698:
| Ability-3-Type = Ex
| Ability-3-Type = Ex
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-3-Action-Required = Swift Action
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-3-Concentration =  
| Ability-3-Concentration =  
Line 706: Line 708:
| Ability-3-Description = As a swift action, the blademaster can reapply poison to his black rapier.  This is done with a practiced flourish, as the blade is slid through a slotted cup-like device on his belt, near the sword's sheath.  The cup-like device contains 10 doses of Languishroot poison, and can be refilled outside of combat.
| Ability-3-Description = As a swift action, the blademaster can reapply poison to his black rapier.  This is done with a practiced flourish, as the blade is slid through a slotted cup-like device on his belt, near the sword's sheath.  The cup-like device contains 10 doses of Languishroot poison, and can be refilled outside of combat.


:As with all poisoned weapons, the poison is used up each time a target is struck by the blade, and new poison must be applied.
As with all poisoned weapons, the poison is used up each time a target is struck by the blade, and new poison must be applied.




Line 742: Line 744:
| Ability-4-Type = Ex
| Ability-4-Type = Ex
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-4-Action-Required = Automatic after successful attack
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-4-Concentration =  
| Ability-4-Concentration =  
Line 792: Line 798:
| Ability-5-Type =  
| Ability-5-Type =  
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-5-Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-5-Concentration =  
| Ability-5-Concentration =  
Line 831: Line 841:
| Ability-6-Type =  
| Ability-6-Type =  
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-6-Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-6-Concentration =  
| Ability-6-Concentration =  
Line 870: Line 884:
| Ability-7-Type =  
| Ability-7-Type =  
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-7-Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-7-Concentration =  
| Ability-7-Concentration =  
Line 909: Line 927:
| Ability-8-Type =  
| Ability-8-Type =  
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-8-Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-8-Concentration =  
| Ability-8-Concentration =  
Line 947: Line 969:
| Ability-9-Type =  
| Ability-9-Type =  
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
   <!--Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"-->
| Ability-9-Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Ability-9-Concentration =  
| Ability-9-Concentration =  
Line 990: Line 1,016:
| Role-Only--Replace-Rez-Power--Type =  
| Role-Only--Replace-Rez-Power--Type =  
     <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
     <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Rez-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Role-Only--Replace-Rez-Power--Concentration =  
| Role-Only--Replace-Rez-Power--Concentration =  
Line 1,035: Line 1,065:
| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Type =  
| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Type =  
     <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
     <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->


| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Concentration =  
| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Concentration =  
Line 1,041: Line 1,075:


| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Description =  
| Role-Only--Add-Killer-Power--Description =  
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  REPLACE "SHOUTED COMMAND" POWER
      LEADER ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this monster
        is given the "Leader" role. It replaces the default "Shouted Command" power, which
        lets Leaders give an ally a Standard Action once per round as a Free Action.
        Leave this blank if you want the "Shouted Command" power to appear when this monster
        is designated as a "Leader" role.                                                  -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Leader-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Replace-Leader-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Leader-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Leader-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Leader-Power--Description =
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  REPLACE "LASH OUT" POWER
      LEGEND ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this monster
        is given the "Legend" role. It replaces the default "Lash Out" power, which
        grants Legends a bonus attack action each round, but only against a fresh target.
        Leave this blank if you want the "Lash Out" power to appear when this monster
        is designated as a "Legend" role.                                                  -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Legend-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Replace-Legend-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Legend-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Legend-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Legend-Power--Description =
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  REPLACE "PACKED LIKE SARDINES" POWER
      MINION ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this monster
        is given the "Minion" role. It replaces the default "Packed Like Sardines" power,
        which allows minions to squeeze into the same space with another minion without
        penalty. Leave this blank if you want the "Packed Like Sardines" power to appear
        when this monster is designated as a "Minion" role.                                -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Minion-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Replace-Minion-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Minion-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Minion-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Minion-Power--Description =
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  REPLACE "DEADSHOT" POWER
      SHOOTER ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this monster
        is given the "Shooter" role. It replaces the default "Deadshot" power, which allows
        shooters to use any of their other special abilities at range, even if they are
        normally melee only.  Leave this blank if you want the "Deadshot" power to appear
        when this monster is designated as a "Shooter" role.                                -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Shooter-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Replace-Shooter-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Shooter-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Shooter-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Shooter-Power--Description =
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  ADD SKIRMISHER ONLY POWER
      SKIRMISHER ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this
        monster is given the "Skirmisher" role.  Any other time, this ability will be
        invisible. It does not replace any of the default powers that skirmishers
        normally get.                                                                      -->
| Role-Only--Add-Skirmisher-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Add-Skirmisher-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Add-Skirmisher-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->
| Role-Only--Add-Skirmisher-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Add-Skirmisher-Power--Description =
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  REPLACE "FLASH BOMB!" POWER
      SNEAK ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this monster
        is given the "Sneak" role. It replaces the default "Flash Bomb!" power, which allows
        sneaks to initiate a stealth stance even while observed (hide in plain sight).
        Leave this blank if you want the "Flash Bomb!" power to appear when this monster
        is designated as a "Sneak" role.                                                    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Sneak-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Replace-Sneak-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Sneak-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action, Free Action, Immediate Action
                Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.        -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Sneak-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Sneak-Power--Description =
    <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage
        or save DC numbers with variables:
  {{To-Hit}}                {{Skill-DC|Easy}}          {{Special-Standard-Dmg}}
  {{Touch-Attack}}          {{Skill-DC|Average}}        {{Special-Swift-Dmg}}
  {{Save-DC}}              {{Skill-DC|Challenging}}    {{Special-Alpha-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Points}}            {{Skill-DC|Hard}}          {{Ability-Dmg}}
  {{Bloodied-Hit-Points}}  {{Skill-DC|Impossible}}    {{Siege-Dmg}}
  {{Hit-Dice}}                                          {{Primary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Offense}}                                  {{Secondary-Dmg}}
  {{Maneuver-Defense}}                                  {{Tertiary-Dmg}}
  {{CR}}                                                {{Quaternary-Dmg}}
                                                        {{Ranged-Dmg}}
  POISON / DISEASE FORMAT
{{Malady
| Name =
| Intensity =
| Save-Type =
| Save-Mod =
| Frequency =
| Effect =
| Fruition =
| F-Duration =
}}
-->
<!--  REPLACE "PERSONAL SPACE ISSUES" OR "DARKEN THE SKY" POWER
      SWARM ROLE ONLY
        This section lets you write a custom power that will only display if this monster
        is given the "Swarm" role. It replaces the default "Personal Space Issues" power
        (or the "Darken The Sky" power, if it is a Troop), which allows swarms to inflict
        the Distracted condition when they damage a foe (or it grants an area of affect
        ranged attack if it is a troop). Leave this blank if you want the "Personal Space
        Issues" or "Darken the Sky" power to appear when this monster is designated as a
        "Swarm" role.                                                                      -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Swarm-Power--Name =
| Role-Only--Replace-Swarm-Power--Type =
    <!-- Values: Sp, Su, Ex; can also include things like "disease", "poison" or "stance"    -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Swarm-Power--Action-Required =
  <!-- Values: Full Round Action, Full Attack Action, Standard Action, Move Action, Swift Action,
        Free Action, Immediate Action, Free Action 1/Rnd, Free Action 1/Enc, Always On, Auto At
        Start of Encounter, Auto Upon Death, etc.                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Swarm-Power--Concentration =
    <!-- Values: "S" for strong caster, "W" for weak caster, leave blank if unneeded; will
        auto-detect Combat Casting and include it                                          -->
| Role-Only--Replace-Swarm-Power--Description =


     <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage  
     <!-- Insert colons ":" before each paragraph after first; replace any to-hit, damage  
Line 1,074: Line 1,467:
| CombatTactics = Blademasters are fairly simple to run, since they have simple goals -- slay their consort's enemies or die to protect her.   
| CombatTactics = Blademasters are fairly simple to run, since they have simple goals -- slay their consort's enemies or die to protect her.   


:While they will always try to stay within 15 feet of their consort, they will also make good use of this space, using positioning to take full advantage of their blademaster ability as much as possible.  This trait makes Blademaster's with a Consort on the field behave with a near-schooling action which is remarkable to see.
While they will always try to stay within 15 feet of their consort, they will also make good use of this space, using positioning to take full advantage of their blademaster ability as much as possible.  This trait makes Blademaster's with a Consort on the field behave with a near-schooling action which is remarkable to see.


:Blademasters carry two hand-crossbows which they will use if they cannot close to melee in a given round.  They are un-nervingly good with them, even though they are even better in melee.  Thus, their priority is to close with a single opponent and carve him to ribbons.
Blademasters carry two hand-crossbows which they will use if they cannot close to melee in a given round.  They are un-nervingly good with them, even though they are even better in melee.  Thus, their priority is to close with a single opponent and carve him to ribbons.


:Blademasters will use venom sheath each round to keep their blades coated in poison.  Note that only the first attack during a full attack action can make use of poison, and each time they hit with the blade it will need a new dose of poison applied.
Blademasters will use venom sheath each round to keep their blades coated in poison.  Note that only the first attack during a full attack action can make use of poison, and each time they hit with the blade it will need a new dose of poison applied.


:A Blademaster will only retreat from a fight if his consort looks like she will safely escape it herself, or if he is expressly ordered to flee by a Drow female.  If she is threatened, Blademasters will use Intercede repeatedly on her, moving into her space from a direction which moves her as far away from harm as they can manage.  If there is any doubt as to her safety, he will fight to the death without hesitation.
A Blademaster will only retreat from a fight if his consort looks like she will safely escape it herself, or if he is expressly ordered to flee by a Drow female.  If she is threatened, Blademasters will use Intercede repeatedly on her, moving into her space from a direction which moves her as far away from harm as they can manage.  If there is any doubt as to her safety, he will fight to the death without hesitation.






<!--  OUT OF COMBAT   -->
<!--  OUT OF COMBAT   -->


| OutOfCombat = Blademasters are so tightly focused on battle and protection of their Consort, they have little time or inclination to develop much in the way of useful skills for the Clan, and frankly, the Consorts and Matriarch's are just fine with that.  Strategists especially rely upon Consorts to be their 'eyes and ears' in the field, and if they have to sacrifice a few dozen males to get their report back, they consider that completely worth it.
| OutOfCombat = Blademasters are so tightly focused on battle and protection of their Consort, they have little time or inclination to develop much in the way of useful skills for the Clan, and frankly, the Consorts and Matriarch's are just fine with that.  Strategists especially rely upon Consorts to be their 'eyes and ears' in the field, and if they have to sacrifice a few dozen males to get their report back, they consider that completely worth it.


:When not in battle, a group of Blademasters will be constantly on the prowl, orbiting a modest distance away from their Consort, scouting for trouble, finding and preparing attack and escape routes, etc.
When not in battle, a group of Blademasters will be constantly on the prowl, orbiting a modest distance away from their Consort, scouting for trouble, finding and preparing attack and escape routes, etc.




Latest revision as of 07:36, 13 January 2023

Drow Blademaster (CR 5)

Lawful Evil - Medium - Fey (Drow)
Lore: Know (Nature)
12 26
Basic DC Full DC
Initiative
Initiative Icon 2.png
10
Perception:
18 +8
Passive Active
Ambush:
8+
on a d20

Senses:

Movement Types:

Defense

AC
Shield Icon 3.png
21
Man Def
Shield Icon 3.png
20
Monster Health
71 35 7
Hit Points Bloodied Hit Dice
Saving Throws
Fort: +3
Refl: +8
Will: +4

Strong Against:

Weak Against:

Offense

Size: Medium
5 ft. 5 ft.
Space Reach
To-Hit
+8
Sword Icon 3.png
Man Off
+9
Sword Icon 3.png
Action
0
Points

Standard Attack (Melee):

  • 1x Black Rapier +8 (1d8+4/19-20 x2)
    as slashing (physical, common)
    plus Languishroot Poison and Blademaster

Full Attack (Melee):

  • 3x Black Rapier +8 (1d8+4/19-20 x2)
    as slashing (physical, common)
    plus Languishroot Poison and Blademaster

Standard Attack (Ranged):

  • 1x Drow Handbow +9 (1d8+4/19-20 x2)
    as piercing (physical, common)
    (Increment: 30 ft.; Max Range: 300 ft.)
    plus Languishroot Poison

Full Attack (Ranged):

Siege Damage: Not siege capable

Statistics

16
STR
19
DEX
15
CON
13
INT
16
WIS
15
CHA

Skills:

Languages: Undercommon, Awnsheghlien, Common

Feats:

  • Blind-Fight (EFFECT: Ignore partial or total concealment penalties with your melee attacks)

Special Abilities

Blademaster (Ex) Automatic

Any time the blademaster is only threatened by a single enemy, he gains a +4 martial bonus to his attack rolls and a +4 martial bonus to his AC. The to-hit bonus applies only to melee attacks. If no enemies threaten the blademaster, or more than one enemy threatens the blademaster, this bonus is lost.

Intercede (Su) Immediate Action 1/Rnd

The blademaster may attempt to intercept an attack meant for his consort, taking only half damage in the process.

Once per round as an immediate action, if the blademaster's consort is targeted with an attack, the blademaster may move up to 15 feet to any legal square adjacent to his consort. He then moves into the consort's space, the consort moves into the adjacent space he just left, and the blademaster becomes the target of the attack instead. Then, the blademaster rolls an attack roll, with his Blademaster bonus if he qualifies for it in his new current square. If the blademaster's attack roll equals or exceeds the to-hit roll or save DC of the attack made against his consort, the attack is resolved as though the blademaster were the intended target, but the blademaster takes only half damage from the attack. If this attack roll fails, the blademaster is automatically struck and takes normal damage. Succeed or fail, the consort takes no damage from the attack, unless the attack has a secondary effect which could still reach her (such as Cleave or Flaming Burst).

This ability may only be used against attacks specifically targeting the blademaster's consort, not one which merely includes her in its effects (such as a fireball spell). Furthermore, a successful use of Intercede cannot cause an attack to become invalid, even if the blademaster wouldn't normally be a valid target. For example, if the attack would normally only work against female creatures, it would get resolved against the blademaster despite this, because Intercede cannot cause an attack to become invalid.

If the blademaster cannot move adjacent to his consort with 15 feet of move, he cannot use this ability (and he should be ashamed of himself for allowing her to wander beyond his reach). If multiple blademasters are present, this ability may only be attempted by one of them per attack attempted against their consort. The GM may choose which blademaster will make the Intercede or roll randomly to determine.

Venom Sheath (Ex) Swift Action

As a swift action, the blademaster can reapply poison to his black rapier. This is done with a practiced flourish, as the blade is slid through a slotted cup-like device on his belt, near the sword's sheath. The cup-like device contains 10 doses of Languishroot poison, and can be refilled outside of combat.

As with all poisoned weapons, the poison is used up each time a target is struck by the blade, and new poison must be applied.

Languishroot Poison (Ex) Automatic after successful attack

The first time a drow blademaster strikes with either his black rapier, or his drow handbow, after the weapon has been poisoned (including the first attack of encounter), there is a chance the target is poisoned. Languishroot is an herbal concoction that is very common in Drow society. It is a potent soporific and will quickly numb victims, making them clumsy and uncoordinated.

Languishroot Poison    (Injury vector; Poisoned intensity)
Save: Fort DC 17;     Frequency: 1/round for 3 rounds
Effect: 1d3 DEX damage and 1d6+2 points of poison (physical, uncommon) per interval, and target is Drowsy
Fruition: victim falls Asleep; this cannot be cured normally.
Fruition Duration: 1 day (full night's rest)
Drow Blademaster

Drow Blademaster

Even compared to the normal levels of arrogance and pride among the Drow, Blademasters are extremes. Male children, chosen as they are birthed from the Great Coccoons by a dark, bloody lottery, Blademasters are raised with only one mission: to die before their consort dies. They are relentlessly trained in warfare, medicine, tracking and intrigue to ensure the safety of their consorts.

On their first nameday, the male children selected to become Blademasters are fitted with bladed gloves which are locked onto their wrists. They wear these gloves until their hands grow too large to continue, typically around 10 years, touching nothing except through the use of the attached blades. To survive they must quickly learn how not to cut themselves to ribbons, and several children die each year trying to figure out how to feed and care for themselves without injury. Those that survive learn to treat the blades as literal extensions of their arms.

Training in bladed combat continues for another 55 years before a Blademaster is considered ready to be assigned to a consort, which happens on their 66th nameday. On this day, they consign their soul to their consort through a lengthy ritual (whose details are not for the squeamish or prudish), and are tattooed with a magical ink which lets them feel any pain their consort feels (though not to a degree which would impair the Blademaster, only to notify him). This tattoo also enables their consorts to compel them to act to a limited degree, though few consorts ever need to resort to this to ensure obedience. The tattoo's primary purpose, aside from marking the Blademaster's chattelhood to the consort, is to allow the consort to override an external compulsion, should one ever occur.

It should be noted that there are many male Drow children churned out by the Great Coccoons, and they are often chosen to be Blademasters, and many of them even survive. Drow females, however, are exceedingly rare, and are often assigned multiple Blademasters to protect them from danger. As a result, despite the extensive training and well-deserved arrogance of the Blademasters, they are taught that their lives are worth only as much as their death can buy. This doesn't make them suicidal, but it does make them perpetually on the lookout for a death that would grant their consort greater standing in Drow society.

Blademasters are always healthy specimens of the male Drow, who move with confidence and grace. They are arrogant to a fault, but also ruthlessly dedicated to their consort's continued well-being. Like all Drow, Blademasters make extensive use of poisons, but they are unique in having perfected the act of re-poisoning a blade mid-combat.

Combat Tactics

Blademasters are fairly simple to run, since they have simple goals -- slay their consort's enemies or die to protect her.

While they will always try to stay within 15 feet of their consort, they will also make good use of this space, using positioning to take full advantage of their blademaster ability as much as possible. This trait makes Blademaster's with a Consort on the field behave with a near-schooling action which is remarkable to see.

Blademasters carry two hand-crossbows which they will use if they cannot close to melee in a given round. They are un-nervingly good with them, even though they are even better in melee. Thus, their priority is to close with a single opponent and carve him to ribbons.

Blademasters will use venom sheath each round to keep their blades coated in poison. Note that only the first attack during a full attack action can make use of poison, and each time they hit with the blade it will need a new dose of poison applied.

A Blademaster will only retreat from a fight if his consort looks like she will safely escape it herself, or if he is expressly ordered to flee by a Drow female. If she is threatened, Blademasters will use Intercede repeatedly on her, moving into her space from a direction which moves her as far away from harm as they can manage. If there is any doubt as to her safety, he will fight to the death without hesitation.

Out of Combat

Blademasters are so tightly focused on battle and protection of their Consort, they have little time or inclination to develop much in the way of useful skills for the Clan, and frankly, the Consorts and Matriarch's are just fine with that. Strategists especially rely upon Consorts to be their 'eyes and ears' in the field, and if they have to sacrifice a few dozen males to get their report back, they consider that completely worth it.

When not in battle, a group of Blademasters will be constantly on the prowl, orbiting a modest distance away from their Consort, scouting for trouble, finding and preparing attack and escape routes, etc.

Rewards

XP: 1,600

Treasure: Sellable Goods worth 1,625 gp.

Weight: 50 lbs.     Volume: 2 cu. ft.

Optional Treasure Rules: Roll a d20 on Table 1 below once per encounter (NOT per creature). Any items discovered are in addition to the normal treasure for the encounter.

Table 1: Remnant(s) Found
1 - 10 Nothing Found
11 - 14 1 Languid Remnant (tier 1)
15 - 17 1 Pale Remnant (tier 2)
18 - 19 1 Bright Remnant (tier 3)
20 Roll on Table 2
### Nothing to see here!
### Or here. Move along.
Table 2: Remnant(s) Found
1 - 5 3 Languid Remnants (tier 1)
6 - 10 3 Pale Remnants (tier 2)
11 - 14 1 Intense Remnant (tier 4)
15 - 17 1 Blazing Remnant (tier 5)
18 - 19 1 Vital Remnant (tier 6)
20 Roll on Table 3
### Or here. Move along.
Table 3: Remnant(s) Found
1 - 5 3 Bright Remnants (tier 3)
6 - 8 3 Intense Remnants (tier 4)
9 - 11 3 Blazing Remnants (tier 5)
12 - 14 3 Vital Remnants (tier 6)
15 - 17 1 Prime Remnant (tier 7)
18 - 19 1 Mythic Remnant (tier 8)
20 1 Empyrean Remnant (tier 9)



Retrieved from "https://www.epicpath.org/index.php?title=Drow_Blademaster&oldid=171610"