Posted by Simon on May 22, 2000 at 06:36:41:
In Reply to: shield dedication posted by Zebulost on May 22, 2000 at 00:48:17:
Each paladin focuses their worship through a particular aspect of the
paladin code. They must continue to periodically seek out their
deity in order to receive further supplications.
Hmm, I take it the first sentence means that some parts of the code
are more important to a given paladin (depending on sphere, deity, etc.),
but he will follow the others as well (like neutral paladins still
'tending to be lawful'), if slightly less rigidly -- correct?
Now the second part above seems to suggest that paladins, after a fashion,
need to be 're-empowered' several times during their career "to receive
further supplications". If so, doesn't this add to the existing problems
with empowerment, as now you must find your deity logged on at the same time
multiple times? I'm all for the current empowerment system with the interview
and watching your followers closely, but it seems there's a lot of potential
for frustration on the player side with the 'new system'. (A completely other
thing is that this implies, perhaps, very powerful supplications for the devout
paladin).
'PALADIN CODE'
2. Do not be greedy; limit your belongings to only the basic necessities.
All extras will be donated to the less fortunate or sacrificed.
This seems very subjective. What is considered "all extras"? Are the various
weapons and other pieces of equipment you might want to use against different
foes NOT "basic necessities"?
4. Never abandon your friends, allies or your beliefs. Fight with courage,
and if you must you will die. Never betray your comrades or cower in fear.
Again, "if you must you will die" has a lot of room for (mis)interpretation.
Obviously they'd be the last one to recall from a tight spot, for example.
But must they be foolhardy, and go fight battles they know they will lose?
> Level 15: shield jab n/a
> Level 24: flank attack n/a
> Level 32: angels wing n/a
>
> 'SHIELD JAB'
> By striking an opponent with a quick swift thrust of the lip of the
> shield, it is possible to knock them over. A paladin who has mastered the
> use of his shield will do this automatically in combat.
>
> 'FLANK ATTACK' FLANK
> Syntax: flankattack
>
> Using thier shield to keep thier opponent in one place, a paladin will
> circle his opponent to strike the weaker flank. This attack takes a few
> rounds to set up for, as the paladin must find an opening and assess his
> foes weak points.
>
> 'ANGEL'S WING' ANGELSWING
> Syntax: angelswing
>
> Swinging thier shield outward and up (like an angel unfolding thier wings)
> a Paladin using this maneuver can catch thier opponents main arm and pin
> it with thier shield. Allowing them to make a quick, and powerful, attack
> to the exposed and unguarded foe.
Thanks for posting these (and the rest of the help files)! Although, interesting
how all of the above seem to be offensive skills when "A paladin who chooses to
fight with a shield has improved defensive capabilities." Perhaps there are
defensive ones to be gained later?
Anyway, at present (and with the limited knowledge we have) the revamp looks
interesting. Well done!