Role-Playing Games

Build-a-Blast:
The Naturesong

by Serban, Quartermaster @ The Guild Hall

July 4 2020

Not all players need something special. It is fair, some of us enjoy a moderate dose of coolness, bundled up in the robust body of a Warlock or Paladin. Others, however, desire nothing more than a simple, yet effective multiclass. For those who like to be engulfed by nature, I present the Naturesong.

The Origin

To be completely honest, I had a hard time finding a build for this week’s issue. I went into my laboratory, started crunching numbers and experimenting, but I had no avail. That is until it dawned upon me that some player’s only wish is to see the DM cry. This build ensures he’ll cry, offering plenty of opportunities to give him the mighty NOPE.

Art credits: Wizards of the Coast

The Theme

So, where do we start? We start in the middle of nature, as an Oath of the Ancients Paladin, whose sole purpose is to preserve the light and prevent fiends and fey from corrupting it. Then, we will tap into our charismatic edge, becoming Bards. Thus, we represent nature’s beautiful sounds. To add to this, you can even choose to be a Gnome or Firbolg, talking to beasts and plants alike. Maybe something more charismatic, like the brand new Satyr race, feels better. The idea is to keep nature safe.

Art credits: Wizards of the Coast

The Gameplay

But how do we keep nature safe? Well, the Paladin’s level 7 aura ensures that magic is kept at bay, but that can be paired with a variety of bardic subclasses for differing flavors of protection. If you want to protect your allies against all attacks, consider the College of Lore, giving you access to Cutting Words and an early Counterspell. Alternatively, you can improve the target’s AC by choosing the College of Valor. You can even tap into your roots (pun intended) and go for the College of Glamour. One thing is for sure, you’ll be a charismatic warrior of nature.

Tips & Tricks

To protect your allies and nature to the best of your abilities, here are some useful tips & tricks:

  • Consider making your primary attack statistic Dexterity, as it plays better into the Bard class.
  • Think long and hard about which saving throws you like better. If you enjoy Dexterity more than Wisdom, then start with Bard and multiclass into Paladin. Be careful, though! As this will require you to have high strength too.
  • The Warcaster feat will be your best friend, as you’ll try to weave both blade and spell!
  • You’ll be full with auras and support, so stay near your allies! They’ll be thankful.

    That’s all that I’ll leave you with to torture your DM, because we know he’s already in over his head. The rest, as per usual, is up to you. How will you flavour it? What’s their personality going to be like? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

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