"WTC95378 Tome of Battle Unofficial Errata.rtf" (1/1) 111.1 kBytes yEnc (alt.binaries.e-book.rpg)

2016/03/22 11:03

WTC95378 Tome of Battle Unofficial Errata.rtf
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Tome of Battle\'97The Unofficial Official Errata }
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One of the more notorious flaws of the Tome of Battle is that the official errata by Wizards of the Coast contains about three entries that are actually about the Tome of Battle. About midway through the third entry it looks as though someone copied and pasted over what was there with the Complete Mage errata. The official word is that this will never be fixed since Wizards ended support for 3.5 errata with the release of D&D 4th edition.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
However, fans of the Tome of Battle rallied together and compiled a listing of questions and answers from Wizard's Customer Service. This is as close as it gets to an official errata for the Tome of Battle.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{{\field{\*\fldinst HYPERLINK "http://community.wizards.com/go/thread/view/75882/19525942/Tome_of_Battle_Q38;A?pg=1" }{\fldrslt \cf5\ul\ulc0\langfe255\lang255\lang255\cf2\ul\ulc0\langfe255\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang255
The link to that thread is here.}{\cf2\ul\ulc0\langfe255\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang255
}} [Long since deleted\'97Vreejack]}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
I'm duplicating the questions and answers recorded in that thread here, on the off chance that the thread is ever deleted or lost. }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\cf3\rtlch \ltrch\loch
General Tome of Battle Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line Can a martial adept (Tome of Battle) initiate a maneuver or change a stance while grappling? While pinned?\line \'97Alan}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The grapple rules provide a list of actions available to a grappling character, but it\'92s obviously not an exhaustive list. (It doesn\'92t, for example, mention \'93speaking\'94 as an option.) It\'92s really intended more as a description of how grappling alters many normal actions available to characters (such as attacking and moving). Thus, the DM must apply a bit of his own common sense when adjudicating any grapple situation.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Any maneuver that involves an attack may be used while grappling, as long as it\'92s made with an unarmed strike, natural weapon, or light weapon against another character you are grappling (PHB p156).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It\'92s easiest to rule that other maneuvers and stances can be initiated normally while grappling unless something intrinsic to the maneuver indicates otherwise. (For example, a maneuver that requires movement can\'92t normally be initiated while in a grapple because the grappling character can\'92t move freely.) Many maneuvers and stances are designed for use by grappling characters, and it seems counterintuitive to restrict those options. A grappling character is somewhat limited in his physical mobility, but to prevent him from initiating a maneuver or stance seems unreasonably limiting.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Sage strongly recommends that a pinned character not be allowed to initiate a maneuver or stance. The rules clearly state that \'93to initiate a maneuver or stance, you must be able to move\'94 (ToB p38), which suggests that a pinned character shouldn\'92t be able to accomplish this.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When it comes to initiator levels, do you round down or up when you have half initiator levels, such as when you multiclass into other classes?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You round down, to a minimum of initiator level 1st.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\cf3\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Martial Adept Questions}
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General Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
How do you calculate initiator level if you have multiple martial adept classes (from Tome of Battle) and/or prestige classes?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Calculating initiator level for multiclass characters or characters with prestige classes can be a little tricky. Basically, you calculate the initiator level of each martial adept class separately. Your initiator level for a specific martial adept class is your level in that class + 1/2 your levels in all other classes. A 10th-level swordsage/5th-level warblade would have an initiator level of 12th for all swordsage maneuvers and for determining the maximum maneuver level that this character could learn as a swordsage. The same character would have an initiator level of 10th for determining the same effects of his warblade levels.\line Prestige classes are generally treated just like multiclassing, adding 1/2 the level unless the prestige class specifically states otherwise, as do most of the prestige classes found in Tome of Battle.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you are a multiclass martial adept (from Tome of Battle), a swordsage/warblade for example, do you have to keep your maneuvers known and maneuvers readied separate for each class?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If a character has multiple martial adept base classes, the maneuvers known and readied from each class are kept separate. Knowing a maneuver for one class does not mean you can ready it for the other, or vice versa.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you have levels in two different martial adept classes (from Tome of Battle), such as swordsage and warblade for example, can you use maneuvers that you have for one class to meet the prereqs for a maneuver in your other class?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If a maneuver has a prerequisite that requires you to have a certain number of maneuvers from a certain martial discipline, then it only matters if you have that many maneuvers of that discipline. It does not matter if the maneuvers all belong to the same class.\line For example, a swordsage 3/warblade 2 has a single Diamond Mind maneuver from the swordsage class. When this character takes a 3rd level of warblade, they gain another maneuver known and can choose Emerald Razor, using the Diamond Mind maneuver known from the Swordsage levels to qualify.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The maneuvers known description of the crusader, swordsage, and warblade (in the Tome of Battle) state that you can learn a maneuver in place of one that you already know. However, these descriptions are unclear about whether you can learn a maneuver in place of one that you learned through another class. Can you swap maneuvers gained through different classes?\line To clarify this with an example, can a crusader 4/warblade 3 who has taken an additional level in the warblade class and learned a maneuver as a result 'forget' a maneuver that he learned through his crusader levels and learn a warblade maneuver in place of that maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, these abilities do not care what the origin of the replaced maneuver is.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can my warblade delay acquiring his stance so that he can gain a 2nd-level stance at a later level?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, because you can't delay acquiring class features.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Crusader Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line If a crusader (Tome of Battle, p.8) has damage reduction, does that apply before or after damage goes into my steely resolve damage pool?\line \'97Fetch\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Apply damage reduction or any other effect that would reduce the incoming damage before it goes into the damage pool.\line If your DR reduces the incoming damage to 0, no damage goes into your damage pool.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line If my crusader (Tome of Battle, p.8) receives more healing from an effect that he needs to return to maximum hit points, do I have to apply the remainder to my damage pool?\line }{{\*\bkmkstart __DdeLink__0_1946842885}\rtlch \ltrch\loch
\'97}{{\*\bkmkend __DdeLink__0_1946842885}\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Antheric\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No.\line You can split the amount of incoming healing between your hit points and damage pool however you wish. You can even apply more healing than you actually need to either category.\line For example, imagine if you had 26 points of damage and 10 points in your damage pool, and the cleric cast cure critical wounds to restore 28 hit points. Since reducing your damage pool by even a point would lessen your furious counterstrike bonus, you could apply all 28 points of healing to your hit points, even though 2 points of that healing is wasted.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Could a crusader (Tome of Battle, p.8) choose to learn or ready fewer maneuvers than he or she would be entitled to?\line \'97Joe & Sam\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No.\line You must learn and ready the full number of maneuvers entitled to you by your level.\line Otherwise, you\'92d be able to cycle through your favorites faster, which defeats the purpose of the crusader\'92s unique recharge mechanic.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Can a crusader (Tome of Battle, p.8) delay learning a new stance to a later level? If not, how can he ever learn an 8th- or 9th-level stance, since his last stance is gained at only 14th level?\line \'97Horst\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
As a general rule, you can\'92t ever delay gaining any feature that comes from reaching a new level, whether that\'92s a feat, skill points, class feature, or anything else.\line The crusader\'92s stances are no different; at 14th level, the crusader must select a new stance of 7th level or less.\line However, at 15th level the crusader could select the Martial Stance feat (p.31) in order to choose an 8th-level stance. At 18th level, he could use that feat to choose a 9th-level stance.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line When a crusader's maneuver recovery mechanic (Tome of Battle, p.9) activates, what happens to any maneuvers he still had ready and granted?\line --Dan\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If at the end of the crusader\'92s turn he cannot be granted a maneuver because he has no withheld maneuvers remaining, the process starts over from scratch. All maneuvers (whether expended or not) once again become withheld, and two of those maneuvers are randomly granted.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line As part of his discipline focus class feature, the swordsage (Tome of Battle p16) gains the benefit of the Weapon Focus feat for a set of weapons. Does he also gain proficiency in the listed weapons?\line \'97Daniel\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
According to a strict reading of the rules, no. A swordsage who wants to avoid the non-proficiency penalty for such weapons must gain proficiency in those weapons normally.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line If a crusader (Tome of Battle) of a good-aligned deity were to "fall" and become a blackguard, would he gain blackguard powers in a manner analogous to a fallen paladin who becomes a blackguard?\line \'97Mark\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
That falls squarely into the domain of "house rules."\line It certainly seems like a cool variant of that aspect of the blackguard, but you would need to work with your DM to come up with appropriate changes to the list of special blackguard features to make them match the crusader class.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Swordsage Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When a swordsage (from Tome of Battle) takes a level in the master of nine prestige class, they can now learn a maneuver from any discipline. If the same character later gains a new maneuver by taking a level of swordsage, can it be of any discipline, or can it only be from the normal swordsage disciplines?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When a character gains a new maneuver from taking a level in the master of nine prestige class, that character can choose a maneuver from any discipline. If that same character later takes a level in swordsage or any other martial adept class, the character could only choose a maneuver belonging to a discipline available to that class.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The swordsage\'92s Discipline Focus (from Tome of Battle, pg. 16) states that you gain the benefits of the Weapon Focus feat for a specific group of weapons. Does this mean you count as having Weapon Focus for any feat or prestige class that has it as a prerequisite?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Discipline Focus gives you the benefits of the Weapon Focus feat, and would allow a character to qualify for a feat or prestige class as if he/she had Weapon Focus.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
How often can you use the swordsage\'92s Sense Magic ability (from Tome of Battle, pg. 16) on a particular weapon or armor?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A swordsage may only use Sense Magic on a particular armor or weapon once. You can think of this as similar to using a Spellcraft check to identify a spell that\'92s already in place, or to identify a potion. You can try again when you gain your next level.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Does the AC bonus of the swordsage (from Tome of Battle) stack with the AC bonus of the monk, even though they are both based on Wisdom modifier?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No. The swordsage\'92s AC bonus, allowing the swordsage to apply her Wisdom bonus to her armor class, mimics the ability of the monk\'92s AC bonus. Since these abilities share the same name and have the same effect, they will not stack.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Does the discipline focus class feature of the swordsage (Tome of Battle p16) apply just to maneuvers gained from that class?\line \'97Ann Marie\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No.\line The benefits of this class feature apply to all maneuvers of the chosen discipline, regardless of how you acquired the maneuver.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Can the swordsage (Tome of Battle p16) apply the insightful strike benefit of his discipline focus class feature to the same discipline twice?\line \'97Ben\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No.\line When you gain this benefit a second time at 12th level, you must apply this to a second, different discipline.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line How often can a swordsage (Tome of Battle p16) use his Sense Magic class feature on a particular weapon or armor?\line \'97Sammy\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A swordsage may only use Sense Magic on a particular armor or weapon once.\line You can think of this as similar to using a Spellcraft check to identify a spell that\'92s already in place, or to identify a potion.\line At the DM\'92s discretion, you can try again after you gain a new level.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you have one level in Swordsage (which grants you Weapon Focus in the weapons associated with one discipline) and take a level of Warblade (which grants you the Weapon Aptitude ability), can you use the latter to switch your Weapon Focus to other weapons outside of the former's weapon group?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No. The warblade ability allows you to change \'93any feat you have that applies only to a single weapon.\'94 The swordsage ability applies to several weapons.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Swordsage's chart (ToB p.16) lists skills as "6 + Int modifier per level, x6 at first level". Should that be "x4 at first level", instead?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Correct!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Alright, so the Swordsage's AC Bonus ability states "Starting at 2nd level, you can add you Wisdom modifier as a bonus to Armor Class, so long as you wear light armor, are encumbered, and do not use a shield."\line Does this mean that you can't use this ability when you are unarmored, ONLY in light armor? By RAW it does but\'85 is it a mistake for errata, should I inform my DM that it works with no armor as well?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The intent is that you get this benefit whether you are wearing light armor or are unarmored. I will pass this issue along to the appropriate departments for potential errata treatment. Of course your DM is allowed to rule however he/she wishes. Thank you for bringing this to our attention!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Do you add any bonus to the swordsage's sense magic class feature?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, you add your swordsage level to the level check, as usual.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Warblade Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The warblade\'92s Weapon Aptitude ability (from Tome of Battle, pg. 22) states that any feat you have that applies to a single weapon can be applied to any other weapon as long as you spend the 1 hour practicing. Does this mean if you have Exotic Weapon Proficiency (bastard sword), you can change it to Exotic Weapon Proficiency (spiked chain) as long as you spend the required time in weapon practice?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Weapon Aptitude works on any feat focus on a single weapon, such as Weapon Focus and Weapon Specialization. Exotic Weapon Proficiency is one of those feats that works for a single weapon, so a warblade would be able to use the Weapon Aptitude ability to switch which weapon Exotic Weapon Proficiency applies to.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\cf3\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Skills and Feats Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you take the Adaptive Style feat (Tome of Battle, pg. 28), can you pick new maneuvers and/or ready all maneuvers by spending a full-round action in the middle of combat?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, you can use Adaptive Style to pick new maneuvers in the middle of combat. Since you are picking new maneuvers, they would all be readied. This is a clear advantage for a class such as the swordsage, who normally has to spend a full round action to recover a single maneuver, and would be a great feat to pick up.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Let's say you're a level 12 character getting ready to take the Superior Unarmed Strike feat (ToB). If you take Superior Unarmed Strike, does having a single monk level amongst those 12 character levels force Superior Unarmed Strike to give you the UA attack dice of a monk 5, or do you still get the UA attack dice in the provided table according to character level?}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You're forced to use the unarmed attack dice of a 5th-level monk.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Would you be able to stack the monk bonus and the swordsage bonus if you altered one or the other via a feat, such as Kung-Fu Genius or Ascetic Mage?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Ascetic Mage only allows you to add your Charisma bonus to AC where you would normally be allowed to apply your Wisdom bonus, and does not discriminate between the source of the bonus. Kung-Fu Genius, however, does apply, because it specifically states that it affects your monk class features, thereby not applying to your swordsage AC bonus.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line Can a monk use the Snap Kick feat (Tome of Battle p32) as part of a flurry of blows?\line \'97Alexander\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes. Apply both penalties to all attack rolls made during the flurry of blows.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Adaptive Style feat in Tome of Battle allows you to change your readied maneuvers as a full round action rather than spending five minutes to do so. Does this\'85\line A) Allow a martial adept to regain and change all of their maneuvers with a single full round action\line or\line B) Allow them to change the maneuver that is readied in their unexpended "slots".\line A: Adaptive Style will actually let you perform option A) from your list. So as a full round action, you can choose a new set of readied maneuvers, and in doing so, reset all of your maneuvers. I hope that clears things up. Have fun and good gaming!\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, it refreshes all the maneuvers of all your classes. Evasive Reflexes [feat] - limits on 5' steps taken}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Tome of Battle includes a feat named "Evasive Reflexes". This feat is raising a lot of questions on the message boards. Here are the main questions that I hope you can shed some light on:\line 1. If I have both Evasive Reflexes and Combat Reflexes, and I am normally entitled to four attacks of opportunity per round, what is the maximum number of 5-foot-steps per round that I can make using Evasive Reflexes?\line 2. Do the 5-foot-step(s) that I make using Evasive Reflexes count against the total number of attacks of opportunity that I can make in a single round?\line Thanks in advance.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
1) 4. You can take a five foot step each time an enemy provokes.\line 2) Yes they do! Essentially you are replacing the attack with the move, but it still uses up an attack of opportunity!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When the Snap Kick feat mentions "When you make a melee attack with one or more melee weapons" is unarmed strike considered a "melee weapon" for the purposes of activating snap kick?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes indeed, unarmed strike would count.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When using the Stormguard Warrior combat rhythm ability, is it possible to score critical hits with the touch attacks (still dealing no damage however) ? This comes into play when using the Tiger Claw blood in the water stance which adds to your to hit and damage when you score a critical.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, it sure is.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line If a character uses the Adaptive Style feat (Tome of Battle p28) after he has expended some of his readied maneuvers, does he choose new readied maneuvers equal to the maximum number he can ready, or equal to the number he hasn\'92t yet expended?\line \'97Matt\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Using the Adaptive Style feat completely resets the character\'92s readied maneuvers, making them all available for use.\line If you\'92re a crusader, you also reset your granted maneuvers.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Clarion Commander tactical feat requires you make a DC 20 intimidate and then make an attack on the next turn. The result is flanking for all allies for one minute, does this allow a character with a ranged weapon to flank?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It just simply states the enemy counts as flanked for you and your allies, so while you normally wouldn't be able to flank with a bow, it looks like you can with this feat!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The benefit of the Shadow Blade feat as listed on Table 2-1: New Feats (TOB 30) wildly differs from the benefit as listed in the feat entry. Which is correct?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
In this case, text trumps tables; the Shadow Blade entry is correct. (However, the benefit as listed on the table could be a good feat on its own.)}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\cf3\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Martial Maneuvers and Stances Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
General Maneuver Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can you know the same maneuvers (from Tome of Battle) more than once? Can you ready the same maneuver more than once at a time?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Actually no, you cannot learn the same maneuvers more than once, nor can you ready the same maneuver more than once at a time.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can a barbarian use maneuvers (from Tome of Battle) while raging? What about Diamond Mind maneuvers that require a Concentration check to use? What about to recover maneuvers in the middle of combat?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
According to the text under the Concentration heading on page 39 of Tome of Battle, the text states \'93unlike with spells or psionic powers, you need not concentrate to initiate a maneuver or stance.\'94 Because initiating a maneuver does not require concentration, you would be able to perform most maneuvers while in a barbarian\'92s Rage, or in any other condition which mimics the restrictions or raging. While raging, a character would not be able to use any Diamond Mind maneuver that requires a concentration check. Using a special action to recover an expended maneuver would fall into the category of \'93any abilities that require patience or concentration,\'94 so a character would not be able to recover maneuvers in this way while raging.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When you gain a new maneuver (from Tome of Battle), can you choose to learn a new stance as it counts as a maneuver for some purposes?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, you can only learn stances when your class table states that you gain a new stance known. (You can also gain new stances by taking the Martial Stance feat, or taking levels in a prestige class that gives you a new stance.) You can\'92t use new Maneuver Known choices to pick stances.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When you gain a new maneuver (from Tome of Battle) known from a prestige class, does it get grouped with maneuvers known from your base martial adept class, or are they kept separate? What happens if you have the base martial adept classes and you take a prestige class gives you more maneuvers known?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
This is actually covered in the rules, though with all the crunchy bits in the book it\'92s easy to miss! When you gain additional maneuvers known from a prestige class, you choose one of the martial adept classes that you have and add it to the maneuvers known of that class. When a prestige class gives you the ability to ready one or more maneuver, you treat this in a similar fashion, choosing one of your base classes that already has a martial maneuver progression and add the additional readied maneuver slot to that class. You make these choices each time you take a level in a prestige class that grants new maneuvers known or maneuvers readied, so you\'92re not locked into advancing a specific base class when you take your first level in these prestige classes. You can find more information concerning this on page 96 of Tome of Battle.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
There are a couple maneuvers (from Tome of Battle) that state they have a save, but no save DC is listed: i.e., Inferno Blast (pg. 55). What should the save DCs be?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
In general, the save DC for a maneuver is 10 + the maneuver level + your key ability score modifier (which depends on the discipline).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Can I use enter a stance or use a boost in the middle of taking another action? For instance, can I charge up to a foe, enter a stance (Tome of Battle p43), and then make the attack granted by the charge? Or can I activate a boost such as burning blade (ToB p52) after I\'92ve made the attack roll?\line \'97Taylor & Mike\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No.\line As a general rule, you can\'92t interrupt one of your actions with another action. The Player\'92s Handbook provides various exceptions (drawing a weapon while moving, the Shot on the Run feat, and so on). However, you can take a swift action any time you would normally be allowed to take a free action, and you can perform a free action in conjunction with actions of other types.\line You could enter the stance before beginning the charge, or after resolving the attack(s) granted by the charge, or in between. Alternatively, you could just move up to the foe, then enter the stance, and then make the attack, but this wouldn\'92t be a charge.\line You must activate a boost before you begin an attack if you want to apply it to that attack. Once you\'92ve rolled, you can\'92t activate the boost.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line If a martial maneuver states that it allows a save but doesn\'92t list the save DC, how do I calculate it?\line \'97Sammy\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If a maneuver doesn\'92t list a DC, it is equal to 10 + the maneuver\'92s level + an ability score modifier based on the discipline:}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Desert Wind: Wisdom }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Devoted Spirit: Charisma }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Diamond Mind: Strength }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Iron Heart: Strength }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Setting Sun: Strength }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Shadow Hand: Wisdom }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Stone Dragon: Strength }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283\sb0\sa0{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Tiger Claw: Strength }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\listtext\pard\plain \hich\af3\dbch\af3\loch\f3 \'95\tab}\ilvl0\ls1 \li0\ri0\lin0\rin0\fi-283\tx707\li707\ri0\lin707\rin0\fi-283{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
White Raven: Intelligence }
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can you switch maneuvers that you know for ones that you don't know?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes. The crusader, swordsage, and warblade can trade one maneuver known for another at certain levels (see their respective descriptions in the Tome of Battle). (Prestige classes that grant maneuvers can't trade maneuvers known.) However, you may only trade one maneuver known for another at a time.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you are in a stance and initiate a maneuver that both add additional damage die, such us punishing stance and mountain hammer, does the additional damage stack?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, because page 40 of the Tome of Battle says that bonuses do not stack, and additional damage die aren't considered bonuses.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can a Swordsage or a Warblade ready more than one "copy" of the same maneuver so that he can use the maneuver more than once per encounter without having to spend actions to regain his maneuver(s)?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Unfortunately not. Readying a maneuver isn't like preparing a spell. You are either Ready to use the maneuver or you aren't! You can't "Double Ready" a Maneuver! You can only use a given maneuver once per encounter unless you Recover it during the fight!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Another multiclass question. Can a multiclassed martial adept (eg. Swordsage/Warblade) choose/and or ready the same maneuver for each of it's classes (provided you have access to the same maneuver)? And if you gain a maneuver in one class, can you use it as a prerequisite in gaining a maneuver in the other class?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, you can only ever learn/ready a maneuver once. If you gain a maneuver in one class it can indeed fulfill prerequisites in another class!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The "preferred weapons" of each discipline seem to serve very little function, except for a couple of feats and the Discipline Focus feature. Can you perform any maneuver with any weapon? Similarly, for "key skills," it seems like most maneuvers can be performed perfectly well without the relevant skill. Are these correct?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Your assumptions are correct. The preferred weapons are just that, preferred, and there are some feats and other abilities that you can build around such weapons, but they are not required for using maneuvers from that discipline. The key skills are the same way. While there are some maneuvers that use the key skill to determine their effects, this is not always the case. There are plenty of maneuvers that you do not need the key skill for at all.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Alot of feats and maneuvers in this book refer to weapons, as in the case of snap-kick (which refers to a melee attack with one or two melee weapons) and maneuvers, as in the Tiger Claw's 1st level maneuver wolf fang strike. My confusion arises from the fact that unarmed strike is referred to as a favored weapon in the description of some of the schools of combat (Setting sun, tiger claw, shadow Hand). Does that mean that unarmed strike counts as a weapon when the word weapon is used in the description of a maneuver? Does it make a difference if the character has the improved unarmed strike feat? I'd just like to clear up this confusion.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes your unarmed strike counts as a weapon when the word weapon is used in the description of the maneuver. Yes it makes a difference if you have improved unarmed strike feat, as you will provoke if you do not.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Just because it isn't really clear in the book: a maneuver that misses is still expended, correct? You can't "hold the charge" like with a touch spell?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You are correct. A maneuver that misses is still expended, unless of course that particular maneuver states otherwise (currently I don't believe any maneuvers state otherwise, but if more maneuvers are created in the future, it is possible they could have additional rules text that could specify such a thing).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
And finally, let's say someone is a multiclass swordsage/warblade. Can a maneuver from Diamond Mind picked from their swordsage maneuvers forfill the prerequisites for a maneuver from Diamond Mind picked by their warblade maneuvers? From what I seen, this looks like how it works, but I figured I'd ask just to be sure.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes Maneuvers taken from one Adept class can fulfill prerequisites for maneuvers taken in another Adept Class. If you have a diamond mind maneuver as a sword sage maneuver, and you gain a maneuver as a warblade, you could Choose Emerald Razor as your Sword Sage Diamond Mind maneuver would fulfill the Pre-requisite.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
I have a PC who is a 16th-level Fighter, and I have recently accrued enough experience points to advance to 17th-level. I would like to take a level in the new Warblade class from Tome of Battle. This entitles me to 3 maneuvers known, and 1 stance known. Because my initiator level is 9, the maximum level of the maneuvers/stances that I can learn is 5th. My question pertains to fulfilling the pre-requisites for different maneuvers and stances. Assuming that I stick to a single discipline when I select my 3 maneuvers known and 1 stance known, Would it be legal for me to acquire one maneuver that has no pre-requisites, a second maneuver that has one maneuver as a pre-requisite, a third maneuver that has two maneuvers as a pre-requisite, and a stance that has three maneuvers as a pre-requisite? In other words, can I use maneuvers/stances as pre-requisites for other maneuvers/stances, even though I am acquiring them all at the same time?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, you can certainly do this.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
All of the new base classes from Tome of Battle offer the option of swapping out an old maneuver to gain a new maneuver at certain levels.\line What happens if, as a result of swapping out an old maneuver, I can no longer meet the pre-requisites for another stance or maneuver that I currently know? Suppose, for instance, that I currently only have the following 2 maneuvers/stances from the Iron Heart discipline: A) Absolute Steel, and B) Disarming Strike. Absolute Steel is a stance that has one Iron Heart maneuver as a pre-requisite. Disarming Strike currently fulfills that pre-requisite for me. Suppose I reach 4th level and decide to swap out Disarming Strike for another maneuver from a different discipline. I no longer meet the pre-requisites for the Absolute Steel stance. Am I still allowed to use the Absolute Steel stance? What if Absolute Steel were a maneuver instead of a stance; would I be allowed to use it?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Going with a strict interpretation of the rules, you would only need to have the appropriate number of maneuvers to meet a prerequisite when you needed to learn the maneuver, not if you wanted to use that maneuver later. So the character in question would still be able to use the Absolute Steel stance even though you have given up your only Iron Heart maneuver. So again, you only have to meet the prerequisites when you learn the maneuver or stance, not when you want to use ready or use it. I hope that clears things up.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line Many strikes and maneuvers in Tome of Battle grant a benefit with a successful attack. If a creature\'92s damage reduction completely negates the damage from the attack, does the benefit still accrue?\line \'97Brian}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
As it turns out, there are four answers to this question: sort of yes, yes, yes, and no.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If the maneuver or stance simply adds to the damage dealt by the attack, add that damage before applying damage reduction (which might in turn reduce or even negate that extra damage). For example, a character in the Punishing Stance adds +1d6 to damage rolls with melee attacks. If you hit a creature with DR 10/\'97 with attack that deals 8 points of damage and an extra 3 points from Punishing Stance, that creature would take 1 point of damage.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If the maneuver or stance adds energy damage to the attack (such as Lightning Throw), damage reduction doesn\'92t reduce that damage (see Damage Reduction, DMG pp291-2).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If the maneuver or stance simply requires a hit (or \'93successful attack\'94 to apply its effect, that effect occurs even if you don\'92t deal damage with the attack that triggers it. Even if your foe\'92s DR completely negates the damage from your Leading the Attack strike, your allies still gain the +4 morale bonus on attack rolls and your Martial Spirit stance still allows you to heal 2 points of damage.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If the maneuver or stance requires you to deal damage to the target, damage reduction that completely negates the damage dealt by the attack prevents the special effect from occurring. This is similar to the Stunning Fist feat (which only functions against a foe \'93damaged by your unarmed attack\'94 or injury-based disease or poison effects.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can you use a wondrous martial item, such as shadow hands, to meet the prerequisite for a maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, because these maneuvers are temporary bonus maneuvers, and do not belong to your actual maneuvers known.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can I take 2 rounds to initiate two maneuvers and use them both during the same round?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, each maneuver must be resolved during the round in which you initiated it, using the action stated in the initiation time.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When you swap maneuvers and you only just have the number of maneuvers and stances to meet the prerequisite for the new maneuver, can you replace one of that maneuver's discipline's maneuvers or do you have to replace one from another discipline?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, because a maneuver cannot be its own prerequisite. However, if you learn a maneuver (meeting its prerequisites) and swap out another maneuver of that maneuver's discipline, you do not lose the use of that maneuver. Prerequisites only apply to learning maneuvers, not using them.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
What is meant by being 'in contact with the ground' for the purpose of the Stone Dragon discipline?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
There is a lot of debate about this subject, but seeing how the relevant text mentions the 'power of the earth and stone', it is reasonable to assume that the definition of being 'in contact with the ground' is standing on earth or stone. This means that standing on wooden planks (such as when in a building with a wooden floor) or being airborne prevents a martial adept from initiating Stone Dragon maneuvers.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
However, your DM may rule otherwise; the rules are vague on this ruling, so it is basically anyone's guess what the correct answer is of this particular question.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Do you need to be lawful in order to learn the law bearer maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, you need to be lawful in order to learn a maneuver with a prerequisite of lawful alignment. However, you do not need to be lawful in order to initiate that maneuver.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
General Stance Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When you use a stance from Jade Phoenix Mage or one of he other classes that overlays an existing stance, it isn\'92t clear whether or not you\'92re still considered to be using a Stance from that Discipline, or any discipline.\line For example if you have Shadow Blade active with Assassin's Stance and use Mystic Phoenix Stance over the usual bonus of Assassin\'92s Stance, is the stance still considered a Shadow Hand stance for purposes of receiving the benefit of the Shadow Blade feat?\line Any insight?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes you are still considered being in your Assassin's Stance even though you are getting the benefit of the Mystic Phoenix Stance, in regards to being in a Shadow Hand Stance for your feat.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When can you initiate a maneuver? Can you initiate a maneuver outside of combat?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, because there's no mention of maneuvers (and by extension, stances) only being usable during an encounter.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Specific Maneuver Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Can my swordsage attack while using ring of fire maneuver (Tome of Battle p55)? What if I have the dervish dance class feature (Complete Warrior p26)?\line \'97Yuukale\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Almost certainly not.\line The ring of fire maneuver requires a full-round action, so the only other actions you could take in conjunction would be free actions and up to one swift action.\line Thus, making any kind of attack while using the ring of fire maneuver would be extremely difficult.\line The dervish dance also requires a full-round action (because that\'92s what a full attack action requires), so you can\'92t use both simultaneously.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line Does the use of the shield counter maneuver (Tome of Battle p60) incur penalties for two-weapon fighting? If so, do these apply to the next round\'92s attacks as well?\line \'97Alex Boston\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No.\line The shield bash allowed by this maneuver suffers a \'962 penalty on the attack roll (as listed in the maneuver description), but no other penalties for two-weapon fighting apply.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line What exactly can or can\'92t iron heart surge (Tome of Battle p68) remove?\line \'97Franco\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Instantaneous effects can\'92t be removed by iron heart surge. However, any effect with a duration of 1 or more rounds, including permanent-duration spells or effects, may be removed by iron heart surge, nor does iron heart surge restore damage, ability burn, or ability drain. (Because ability burn can't be healed magically or psionically, it would be safe to assume that it can't be healed through maneuvers either.)\line Iron heart surge doesn\'92t replace lost levels (though it would remove any negative levels resulting from a single spell or effect). It would neutralize a single poison coursing through your system, or a single disease that afflicted you.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Does Leading the Charge and Bolstering Voice affect the User of the stance/maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Considering that a Bard counts as his own ally, and thus gains benefit from his own Bardic song abilities, I'd say yes.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Does the 5-foot step granted by the tactical strike maneuver count against the limit of one 5-foot step per round? If it does, what happens when an ally has already taken a 5-foot step in that round before you initiated the maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, it does not count against it. So if they have already taken their 5 foot step, they can immediately make another.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
I see nothing in Tome of Battle that specifies how often (if at all) you can use maneuvers out of combat\'85 specifically the Shadow Blink/Jaunt/Stride maneuvers. How often can you use them out of battle?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
According to page 40 of the Tome of Battle: "In the case of a long, drawn out series of fights, or if an adept is out of combat entirely, assume that if a character makes no attacks of any kind, initiates no new maneuvers, and is not targeted by any enemy attacks for 1 full minute, he can recover all expended maneuvers." Thanks to Warlawk for pointing this error out.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can the counters that replace Saving Throws with Concentration Checks (eg. Moment of Perfect Mind) be modified by miscellaneous bonuses to saving throws (eg. a magic item or feat that provides you with a bonus to your saving throws)? If not, what happens if there is a penalty to your saving throw, does it apply to the skill check?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Concentration check plus any applicable Concentration skill check modifiers completely replace the Will save and its modifiers. Bonuses and penalties to saving throws or even specifically Will saving throws don't apply.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you use True Strike with the Avalanche of Blades maneuver from the Tome of Battle, does the +20 benefit the entire maneuver or only the first attack.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Only the First Attack roll.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
I read on the boards that a forum member asked you how Raging/Dancing Mongoose worked with Time Stand Still, and you replied that you get the extra attacks per full attack action, so you would get double the attacks from Raging/Dancing mongoose using Time Stand Still.\line Now I looked the maneuvers over in Tome of Battle, and I can't figure out why that is. The maneuver states that it last until end of turn and you get some extra attacks per weapon wielded (max of 2 or 4), nowhere in the maneuver is it said that the extra attacks come per full attack action. If you read about being hasted, it very specifically says you get the extra attack as part of a full attack action and therefore you will get an extra hasted attack from using Time Stand Still. But I can't see why you would get double bonus from Dancing/Raging Mongoose.\line So my question is, why did you rule it that way? Have I overlooked something or?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Hmm.. Not sure who answered it that way, but they must have misunderstood the question! You could initiate Time Stands Still and Raging Mongoose, and Raging Mongoose would give you four extra attacks that turn, two with each weapon you wield! But only four. not Eight. You would be able to choose which full attack action to apply the extra attacks to during your turn.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When using the high level diamond mind maneuver Time stands still, you can make two full attack actions in a row separate from each other. Suppose you normally get 5 attacks, three from base attack and two more from two weapon and improved two weapon fighting. You use Raging Mongoose to gain two attacks with each weapon at your highest base attack, this ability lasts for one round. Does Raging mongoose let you make two extra attacks with each weapon for each full attack action, or does the limit of two attacks for each weapon apply only for the first full attack.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You can make two extra attacks for each full attack action that you make with this combination. So you would get the extra attacks in the first full attack action, and get them again in the second full attack action.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When using Time stands still can you use a standard action instead of a full attack action?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Time Stands Still specifically allows you to make two full attack actions, so you would not be able to use standard or move actions.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
In the Tome of Battle: Book of Nine Swords, the Setting Sun discipline has many throw maneuvers that follow the rule: "as part of this maneuver, you must succeed on a melee touch attack against your foe. Resolve the throw as a trip attempt (PH 158)". Normal tripping can only be done against foes one size category larger than you. Does this size limitation apply to Setting Sun throws as well, or could (for example) a Small sized swordsage use a Mighty Throw on a Large opponent?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You are still limited in the sizes of creatures you can trip/throw.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The maneuver Raging Mongoose allows you to make extra attacks with a weapon in each hand, but it mentions nothing about taking the standard two-weapon fighting penalties for doing so.\line Are these extra attacks penalized by the normal two-weapon fighting rules?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You will indeed incur two weapon fighting penalties if you are wielding two weapons and take your extra attacks with both those weapons!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can Iron Heart Surge remove:\line 1. Poison.\line 2. Disease.\line 3. The spell "Bestow Curse".\line 4. Ability score damage.\line 5. Level drain.\line 6. The influence of an antimagic field. (*)\line 7. If you use Iron Heart Surge against an effect which does not solely target you, but also affects an area, do you end the entire effect or do you just dismiss it from yourself?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
\line 1. Yes.\line 2. Yes.\line 3. Yes.\line 4. Ability score damage is not an ongoing effect. It is the result of an attack, spell, or ability. So no - damage, even ability score damage, will not be removed by Iron Heart Surge.\line 5. In most cases, level drain is similar to damage when determining if Iron Heart Surge removes it from the martial adept. If something level drained you, this is a permanent result, not an effect with an ongoing duration. You would not be able to use Iron Heart Surge to remove level drain.\line 6. Yes, you would be able to end the antimagic field if you chose to do so with Iron Heart Surge.\line 7. If the effect does not solely target you, such as the antimagic field in number 6, it will still end the entire effect.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Also I am confused by the Uncanny Dodge-flat foot paradox. I was under the impression that uncanny dodge allowed one to keep the dexterity bonus when caught flat footed - not eliminate the actual condition of being flat footed. I'm looking at the "strike of the broken shield" power on p. 74-75 and it says, "If your target cannot be caught flat-footed (he has uncanny dodge, for example)," which is the source of my confusion. Many of these maneuvers only work vs. flat footed opponents; must they *also* be denied their dexterity bonus?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Strike of the Broken Shield wording is worded improperly because Uncanny Dodge does not make you immune to being flat-footed. But the intent should be clear enough. Characters with Uncanny Dodge or characters that cannot caught flat-footed cannot be made flat-footed by this maneuver. I will pass this miswording along to the appropriate departments for potential errata purposes.\line In general, follow the flat-footed rules you know when determining the effects of maneuvers. If a maneuver can be used against a flat-footed person (rather than having their Dex denied to their AC), a character with Uncanny Dodge can still be victim to the maneuver.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Counter Charge: The victim is moved "2 squares in a direction of your choice away from you." Is this 2 squares from your location, or 2 squares from where it began the charge? Also, how can it be "away from you" and also "in a direction of your choice?" "Away from you" is a direction.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Again, this is not specifically covered in the text. Simply by reading, it is 2 squares away from you, which could be any two squares that do not pass through you. It does not say 2 squares away from the direction that you came from, only 2 squares away from you. But since it is not specifically covered in the exact terms that you asking for, it is going to be up to your DM to determine exactly how this would work.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Clever Positioning: Lacks the text that says that this movement is not subject to attacks of opportunity. Does this mean that it provokes attacks of opportunity normally?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
While the flavor text of the maneuver uses the word "moving into his space," the actual rules text of the maneuver never uses the word "move." The rules text of the maneuver simply states that you "swap positions with the target." This seems to show that it is not treated as normal movement and would not provoke. Of course, I see the ambiguity you're speaking of, so in a case like this, it is again going to be up to your DM to determine how he/she thinks the ability should work.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Five-Shadow Creeping Ice Enervation Strike: I don't understand this one at all. The box says the duration is 1 minute, but the text says that the special effects last for 1d6 rounds. Does that mean that the ability damage only lasts one minute? That's not the way abiltity damage usually works. Or does the "freezing" effect not kick in for one full minute after the initial attack? Or does it affect one body part per round for 1 minute? Or is this simply an error, and one or the other of those statements is wrong?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
In cases where the stat block and full text of an entry disagree, the full entry wins out, unless an errata states otherwise. So in this case, the 1 minute duration is incorrect, and the special effects of each result only last for 1d6 rounds. The ability damage is treated as damage is normally treated and lasts until it is healed. For the time being, just ignore the 1 minute duration, and when the errata file is created, it should have all the new/correct information.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When using the many Setting Sun Maneuvers that require you to make a trip attempt (Tornado throw, ballista throw e.t.c.) can a character with the improved trip feat make an extra melee attack if he succeeds on the trip attempt?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
This depends upon the maneuver. Some of the maneuvers end with your opponent out of reach, so this wouldn't be possible. I imagine that any maneuver that ended with your opponent in a threatened square would work just fine for this purpose. However, without a specific maneuver to reference it is impossible for me to give a definitive answer.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Say I have an attack which does the following damaged on a successful hit: 2d6 (from weapon + 5 (from Str) + 5 (from Power Attack) + 1d6 (Fire) (from the Flaming enhancement) + 10 (extra damage provided by the Stormguard Warrior Tactical feat). Which damage is multiplied if I hit my target using the Diamond Nightmare Blade maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You will not get the Fire damage dice multiplied, but the integer modifiers to your damage from Str, Power Attack, and your Tactical Feat will be, along with your weapons base damage.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Desert Wind maneuver, Firesnake, has a duration of Instantaneous listed in its stat block. However, the game mechanics text refers to how far the snake can move in a round and how damage is handled from round to round. Is Firesnake intended to be instantaneous (deal damage once and then disappear)? Or is it intended to be an ongoing effect (deal damage as directed for X number of rounds)? If it is intended to be an ongoing effect, what should its duration be?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It seems that the description that allows the snake to move around round after round is incorrect. the maneuver is instantaneous, in that you assign a line for the snake to follow, and it does so instantaneously and is done. Errata has not been put up for this yet, and until it is, it is up to your DM to adjudicate the effect of this spell as he or she sees fit.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Level 9 Maneuver for the Stone Dragon Style is listed as 'Mountain Tombstone Strike' (p84). I note that this maneuver (unlike all the other L9 maneuvers) has no prerequisite maneuvers. Could you confirm whether this is intentional, or is an omission?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It is indeed intended as written for the time being. I am passing it along to the appropriate departments for review regardless. If any Errata is printed it will be posted to the Errata section of the site!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line If I use Mighty Throw (Tome of Battle p73) or another maneuver that allows me to trip a foe, does the Improved Trip feat grant me an extra attack against that opponent?\line \'97Gerald\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes. The Improved Trip feat applies any time you trip a foe in melee combat, even if that trip comes from a special power.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line Does the Jump check and subsequent jump made as part of the Sudden Leap boost (Tome of Battle p89) count against the initiator's movement as described in the Jump skill?\line \'97Gabe\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No. Sudden Leap is its own swift action, not part of a move action, so the movement is in addition to any you might make using other actions.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line Does the Wall of Blades maneuver (Tome of Battle p70) work against touch attacks? What about touch attacks from spells?\line \'97Dennis\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes \'97 this counter works equally well against touch attacks and normal attacks, regardless of their source.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage\line Can you use White Raven Tactics (Tome of Battle p94) on yourself to gain another turn right after your current initiative score?\line \'97Robert\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No. White Raven Tactics doesn\'92t work on the initiator himself.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The second level shadow boost Cloak of Deception is a swift action to activate and lasts until the end of the turn. If a swordsage used their recovery ability to spend a full round action to recover a maneuver could they remain still and invisible for as long as they went first in the following initiatives? If there would be some blinking time would using this maneuver in this way add a circumstance bonus on hideing instead?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The swordsage would remain invisible if he recovered his maneuvers, because a full-round action takes less time than the end of the turn. Effectively, it doesn't matter when you take your full-round action; it never lasts longer than one turn. However, if that swordsage would take an action of 1 round (such as summoning a monster, for example). This answer renders the second question moot, but nonetheless, becoming invisible is almost instantaneous.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can you score a critical hit with insightful strike (TOB 63)?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, the maneuver states that you don't deal any extra damage that you would normally deal. Additionally, the examples listed in the maneuver don't include critical hits.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\cf4\ul\ulc0\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Specific Stance Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Sage,\line If a single opponent is affected by multiple iron guard glare stances (Tome of Battle p59), what happens?\line \'97Ken\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Play it just like it\'92s written, remembering that the penalties won\'92t stack (since they\'92re all from the same effect).\line An ogre threatened by two different characters both in the iron guard\'92s glare stance would take a \'964 penalty to attack any ally of either character. Assuming the two threatening characters are allies of each other, the ogre can\'92t avoid taking a \'964 penalty on his attack roll no matter who he swings at (unless he moves to a place where one or the other no longer threatens him).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Does the shifting defense stance grant you a 5-foot step before the attack roll is made, making it miss because of your movement, or after the attack roll is made and consequently results in a failure?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The shifting defense maneuver grants you a 5-foot step after you know that the attack misses, because the stance states that it is activated upon a failed attack.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dance of the Spider: You need one hand free to climb, but do you need one hand free to remain in place while stuck to a wall?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The rules don't mention anything anywhere about what you need just to cling to a wall, so this would again be up to your DM.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Giant's Stance: This stance says "to a maximum of Large." But other similar increases have no such text. Could you then choose to use this stance to gain the damage as if you were Large, then subsequently apply an ability (like Improved Natural Attack, Shillelagh, or Powerful Build) to increase your damage die further?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The rules are unclear on how this increase would or would not stack with other things that increase you size. So again, it will be up to your DM.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Island of Blades: Does this apply only against exactly one or two opponents, or against any number of opponents to which both you and an ally are adjacent?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It can apply to any number of opponents. It simply uses 2 opponents as an example. As long as you and your ally are both adjacent to an enemy, you get the flanking bonuses.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Martial Spirit: This stance lacks the "the foe must pose a threat to you and your allies" text. A literal reading would therefore say that you can make any "opponent," even one who poses no threat, like an ant at a picnic, and gain the benefit of this ability. That can't be right.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If we take a literal reading of the text, you are correct, we would have to apply it to any opponent, at any time, even if they pose no threat to you. Hopefully the DM of your campaign can step in and point of what is, and isn't, a reasonable opponent for the use of this maneuver.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Blood in the Water: How does this interact with an opponent who aren\'92t subject to critical hits, but you have a Flaming Burst weapon? Does that count as a critical hit?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The ability doesn't specifically state that it doesn't work on creatures that are immune to critical hit damage, nor is the bonus from the maneuver treated as critical hit damage, so it looks like this maneuver would work on a creature that is immune to critical hits.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If i'm the island of blades stance and using spiked chain, and an ally and I are fighting a foe, he is next to him and me only close enough for him to be threatened does island activate?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, you both need to be adjacent to the enemy you want to flank, not adjacent to each other.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\cf3\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Prestige Class Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
How do you determine if a prestige class adds 1/2 per prestige level to your initiator level (from Tome of Battle), or if it counts your full prestige class levels for your initiator level?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A prestige class only adds 1/2 its levels to your initiator level unless it specifically states otherwise. Currently the bloodclaw master, deepstone sentinel, eternal blade, jade phoenix mage, master of nine, ruby knight vindicator and shadow sun ninja are the only prestige classes that add their full level to a character\'92s initiator level.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Thunderous Throw (from Tome of Battle, pg. 101) ability states that you can choose to treat your ranged attack rolls with thrown weapons as melee attacks for the rest of the turn. Does this mean you could use feats that would only apply to melee attacks, such as the Combat Rhythm option of the Stormguard Warrior feat?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Thunderous Throw allows you to treat your thrown ranged attacks as melee attacks. Because of this, you would be able to apply any feat that would normally only apply to melee attacks, which includes feats such as Stormguard Warrior and the various options that such a feat provides.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q: The eternal blade's island in time class feature says that you can use it as an immediate action, but can you use it in the first round of combat and get to go first no matter what?\line A: No. Before you take your first action in an encounter, you are considered to be flat-footed. The immediate action description in the glossary says that you cannot take an immediate action while being flat-footed.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Does the uncanny dodge class feature allow you to use the eternal blade's island in time class feature when flat-footed?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No. Uncanny dodge allows a character to retain his or her Dexterity bonus to Armor Class, but is treated as flat-footed for all other purposes. Flat-footed characters, even if retaining Dexterity bonuses to AC, can't use immediate (or any other) actions; thus, it's not possible to activate island in time while flat-footed. The scout's class feature states that a scout "cannot be caught flat-footed", but refers to the barbarian class feature of the same name. Therefore, even the scout cannot use an immediate action while 'flat-footed'. (Effectively, uncanny dodge merely negates some of the disadvantages of being flat-footed, but does not negate being flat-footed in and of its own.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
All three base initiator classes have a mechanism by which they can replace less powerful lower level maneuvers with higher level ones. (i.e. in the case of the Swordsage they can replace a maneuver at 4th level and every two levels thereafter) (Somewhat akin to a Sorcerer's or a Bard's spellcasting) Yet no provision is similarly given for all the PrCs. Is this on purpose? Are the PrCs meant to stick with all the lower level maneuvers, or does the same mechanism apply to them?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
At this point there is not provision for changing your lower level maneuvers when advancing in a Prestige Class.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
I noticed "Improved Unarmed Strike" in the prerequisites for the Master of the Nine Prestige Class and found that unusual as there is absolutely no Unarmed Combat perks in the class and further, the Martial Adept classes are all really "weapon-focused".\line I suspect that it's in error and perhaps they meant "Weapon Focus" or at least something more weapon related.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It is not an error. Not all prerequisites for a prestige class lead to a class ability based on that prerequisite.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
'The full prestige class level,' receives no sort of context. My question is thus:\line Do all prestige classes work toward this goal, or just the ones that specifically give maneuvers? (Meaning the Bloodstorm Blade wouldn't contribute.) Furthermore, what exactly is the goal? They increase initiator level, sure, but it seems to only indicate it does so with the existence of a martial adept level, which isn't concise with the way other classes work. So do prestige classes have no effect on your initiator level without a martial adept level? Or is it that they just have a greater effect with a martial adept level?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Only Prestige Classes that state specifically that they count towards Initiator level do so. This information is given in the specific Prestige Class descriptions. All other prestige classes that lack this distinction would be counted at a 1/2 ratio as per the multiclass rules.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Furthermore, does initiator level impact your ability to swap out maneuvers directly? I ask this, because as you might know, sorcerers can still swap out spells when progressing in a prestige class, based on their 'hard' arcane caster level (as opposed to 'soft,' which can be stuff like Practiced Spellcaster or caster level buffs).\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Initiator level does have an impact on how high a level of a maneuver you can swap for. But it doesn't NOT effect when you would swap out the maneuver. That is based on class levels only.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you are a multiclassed martial adept (Swordsage/Warblade for example) and you enter in a Prestige Class (say, the Master of the Nine) do you add the full prestige class level to one class or both when determining Initiator Level?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Prestige class levels would apply to both. When you initiate a maneuver for either of your given classes you would add your levels in that class plus your prestige class levels (So long as that class is one of those that specifically states it adds to initiator levels) and 1/2 your other Martial Adept class levels.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Eternal Blade PrC has an ability called "Armored Uncanny Dodge" (ToB p.110). It does not state the benefits instead refering the reader to the Player's Handbook. It goes on specify that "You can use Uncanny Dodge or Improved Uncanny Dodge even if you wear medium or heavy armor".\line However, uncanny dodge is not restricted by armor worn. Should the Eternal Blade's actual ability instead be Armored Evasion, since evasion is also a rogue ability on the page referenced, also has an improved version that the character could gain if she already had the basic version, but normally doesn't function if the character is wearing medium or heavy armor?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Hmm.. interesting. For now, it reads as written, even with that redundant bit at the end. I have submitted this to the appropriate departments for review! Any changes will be posted in the Errata section as soon as they are made available to the public. I am including a link below to the Errata section of the site!}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The Eternal Blade's Island in Time ability (ToB p.110-111) lets a 10th level Eternal Blade take an entire turn as an Immediate action. Taking an Immediate action normally prevents a character from taking a Swift action in their following turn. Does the Immediate action of taking a whole turn use up that turn's Swift action, or, since the entire turn is an Immediate action, would the Swift action be lost from the following, normal initiative count turn?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes indeed it does take up a use of a swift action for that turn.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When a Shadow Sun Monk from the Tome of Battle book reaches 10th level, he/she gains access to The Balance of Light and Dark Supernatural ability that lets him/her bestow one negative level with "each successful unarmed attack you make".\line My question is thus, would an unarmed touch attack qualify for the above mentioned unarmed attack? Such that a character could make multiple touch attacks that deal no damage but each inflict a negative level? (with the caveat of course that each negative level will deal you 1 constitution point worth of damage when the state ends.)\line For that matter can maneuvers that require successful melee attacks, such as Five Shadow creeping ice enervation strike (from the shadow hand discipline), feral death blow (from the Tiger claw discipline) or the avalanche of blades (from the diamond mind discipline) be done with successful melee touch attacks that deal no damage?\line Thanks for your kind consideration,\line It might seem that avalanche of blades does nothing if done with touch attacks but try applying the subsequent number of successful touch attacks to the Combat rhythm ability from storm guard warrior and you arrive at a very potent combination. I would like also to ask if this is a possible combination?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No. An unarmed strike is not a touch attack.\line You cannot use melee touch attacks in place of normal melee attacks unless the ability or maneuver specifically says so.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Dear Customer Service,\line Recently on the optimization boards, two of our members sent in queries concerning Tome of Battle and got two seemingly contradictory answers, which one is the correct one?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
For the Bloodstorm Blade's Thunderous throw ability, when it says "you can choose to treat your ranged attack rolls with thrown weapons as melee attacks for the rest of your turn" does this apply to all aspects of the ranged attack? I.e. Does the character basically replace all his ranged attacks with melee attacks with respect to feats (combat rythym from the stormguard warrior feat, for example, could the touch attacks for that be made at range with this ability?), damage (do you basically replace the possible ranged damage with melee damage) and things you can do with melee attacks (i.e. tripping, disarming and suchlike, without requiring the ranged disarm or ranged trip feat or ability respectively)?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
If you couldn't normally do these things at range, then you couldn't now. All this ability does is substitute your Strength bonus for your Dexterity bonus, and allows you to use feats that affect your attack bonus for melee attacks and such. Ultimately all this changes is how you determine your attack bonus. You could use this in conjunction with Stormguard Warrior's, combat rhythm ability, but keep in mind that you do no damage when this occurs (until the next round of course).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Does Stormguard Warrior's Combat Rhythm damage bonus apply to ranged attacks made with Thunderous Throw? Furthermore, are damage rolls when using Thunderous Throw considered melee damage rolls?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The answer is yes. Since your Ranged attacks are considered Melee attacks, the damage is Melee damage. With the Combat Rhythm tactical option these attacks would be Melee touch attacks. Thanks for helping to sort out this confusion.\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Thunderous Throw does allow you to deal melee damage with your ranged attacks rather than ranged damage. That is the intent.\line Both those answers state that you can use Thunderous Throw and Combat Rhythm in conjunction with one another. But damage is not dealt when you first use Combat Rhythm with your Thunderous Throws. The fact that Combat Rhythm's states that you don't deal damage with the melee attack trumps the fact that you are dealing melee damage with Thunderous Throw. The bonus to melee damage on the following round does apply to your Thunderous Throw damage, however.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\cf3\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Martial Item Questions}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
How does the discipline focus weapon special ability work?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The discipline focus weapon special ability grants a +1 bonus on attack rolls, which stacks with other enhancements on the weapon. If the wielder initiates a maneuver or a stance of the discipline to which the weapon is keyed, this bonus increases to +3. Using the example on page 149 of the Tome of Battle, a +1 Stone Dragon Shadow Hand weapon gains a +3 bonus on attack rolls (+1 enhancement, +1 Stone Dragon enhancement, +1 Shadow Hand enhancement). While in a Stone Dragon stance with a Shadow Hand stance, this bonus increases to +7 (+1 enhancement, +3 Stone Dragon enhancement, +3 Shadow Hand enhancement). If the wielder were only using one discipline, the bonus would be +5 (+1 enhancement, +1 from the unused discipline, +3 from the used discipline).}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can a weapon with the Aptitude Weapon property be used to execute special class based abilities that are keyed into a certain type of weapon? For example, could a Dervish with an Aptitude Light Mace execute a dervish dance?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
No, you must still actually wield a slashing weapon to initiate a dervish dance. The aptitude weapon ability only lets you gain benefits that you would've gained from wielding a weapon you have specific feats for. So while you might get the benefits of feats like Weapon Focus (scimitar) and Improved Critical (scimitar), you're not actually wielding a scimitar, but a light mace in your case.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
When an item says "for which he meets the prerequisite", I'm assuming this includes Initiator Level as well as maneuvers known. Is this correct?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes. So if a martial adept with an initiator level of 5th wears an item that grants a 3rd-level maneuver, he must still have the prerequisite number of maneuvers of its discipline, despite having a high enough level to initiate maneuvers of that maneuver level.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Regarding the crown of white ravens, what does "gains knowledge of that maneuver and can use it" really mean?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
It means that you can initiate that maneuver. For a martial adept who meets its prerequisites, this means that he or she may effectively add it to her list of maneuvers known. For someone who doesn't have martial adept levels, this means that he or she can initiate it once per encounter, without recovery, as per the Martial Study feat.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can this maneuver you gain knowledge of from the item be changed? If so, how long does that take? Do you need to remove the crown, then take another 24 hours to attune?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
You can change the maneuver by removing it and then spending another 24 hours to attune. The maneuver must still meet all of the prerequisites of the item that grants it and the initiator must still meet all of the maneuver's prerequisites.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can you gain knowledge of a stance through a crown of white ravens?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
The item is vague on that issue, but as maneuvers and stances are mentioned separately in multiple areas of the book, I would rule that you can't, because the item doesn't specifically mention stances.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can a maneuver known through the crown of white ravens be used as a prerequisite for learning another maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Because abilities and bonuses granted through magic items can be used to meet prerequisites, you can use the granted maneuver to meet prerequisites. You would immediately lose the ability to initiate the maneuver learned through this method if you remove the item, though, unless you have met the prerequisites in another way in the meanwhile.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can you wear 2 Rings of the Diamond Mind, each granting a different maneuver?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, as long as each grants a different maneuver. This is in accordance to the rule that states that you cannot benefit from the same effect twice.}
\par \pard\plain \s38{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\sb0\sa120\cf0\hich\af0\langfe2052\dbch\af0\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Q:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Can these items be custom-made to fill different slots? For example, would a Tigerskin Cloak, Headband of the Setting Sun, or Iron Heart Helm be reasonable?\line }{\*\cs34\b\ab\rtlch \ltrch\loch
A:}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
Yes, although you should check with your Dungeon Master to see if he allows it.}
\par \sect\sectd\sectunlocked1\pgwsxn12240\pghsxn15840\marglsxn1134\margrsxn1134\margtsxn1134\margbsxn1134\ltrsect\sbknone\pard\plain \s0{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\nowidctlpar\cf0\hich\af2\langfe2052\dbch\af5\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch
}
\par \sect\sectd\sectunlocked1\pgwsxn12240\pghsxn15840\marglsxn1134\margrsxn1134\margtsxn1134\margbsxn1134\pgndec\sbknone}

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