Utilize a unique combination of Factotum versatility and grappling prowess.
Equip the right gear to enhance your Factotum’s abilities at every level.
Adapt to any combat situation with our strategic insights.
Join our community to connect with fellow gamers and enhance your play.
Level Distribution
At its core, this build combines the Factotum’s jack-of-all-trades versatility with an exceptional grappling capability. You’re not just a fighter; you’re a strategist, a survivalist, and a shadow in the dark. Here’s what sets the Bayou’s Reaper apart:
At level 1, Bayou’s Reaper emerges as a skilled and resourceful Factotum with a knack for survivalist strategies and dark stealth. With high Strength and Intelligence, this build is already set to be a formidable grappler and information gatherer.
Stat Block Level 1:
Bayou’s Reaper: male, Reptilian Creature Human Factotum 1; CR 1; Medium humanoid (human, reptilian); HD 1d8+2; hp 10; Init +2; Spd 30 ft.; AC 12, touch 12, flat-footed 10; Base Atk +0; Grp +4; Atk light pick +4 melee (1d4+4/x4); Full Atk light pick +4 melee (1d4+4/x4); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Trapfinding; SQ None; AL Neutral; SV Fort +2, Ref +2, Will +2; Str 18, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 12, Cha 6.
Inspiration (2 points/day, add Int mod to rolls), Cunning Insight (expend 1 inspiration to add Int mod to attack, damage, or saves), Cunning Knowledge (expend 1 inspiration for +3 on a skill check), Trapfinding. Possessions: Leather armor, Light Pick, manacles.
Level 5 Brief:
By level 5, Bayou’s Reaper has honed his grappling and stealth abilities while gaining access to healing spells through Opportunistic Piety. His versatility is bolstered by enhanced spellcasting and combat techniques.
Stat Block Level 5:
Bayou’s Reaper: male, Reptilian Creature Human Factotum 5; CR 5; Medium humanoid (human, reptilian); HD 5d8+10; hp 32; Init +2; Spd 30 ft.; AC 12, touch 12, flat-footed 10; Base Atk +3; Grp +7; Atk light pick +7 melee (1d4+4/x4); Full Atk light pick +7 melee (1d4+4/x4); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Arcane Dilettante (2 spells), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety; SQ Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense; AL Neutral; SV Fort +4, Ref +4, Will +4; Str 19, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 12, Cha 6.
Inspiration (4 points/day, add Int mod to rolls), Cunning Insight (expend 1 inspiration to add Int mod to attack, damage, or saves), Cunning Knowledge (expend 1 inspiration for +8 on a skill check), Arcane Dilettante (cast 2 spells/day), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike (expend 1 inspiration for +1d6 sneak attack), Opportunistic Piety (use spells to heal or turn undead). Possessions: Leather armor, Light Pick, manacles.
Level 10 Brief:
At level 10, Bayou’s Reaper capitalizes on his grappling prowess with improved grab techniques. His spellcasting versatility and keen scent allow him to track and capture targets effectively while remaining undetected.
Stat Block Level 10:
Bayou’s Reaper: male, Reptilian Creature Human Factotum 8/Scaled Horror 1/Justiciar 1; CR 10; Medium humanoid (human, reptilian); HD 9d8+2d10+20; hp 70; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 16, touch 12, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +7; Grp +11; Atk light pick +11 melee (1d4+4/x4); Full Atk light pick +11/+6 melee (1d4+4/x4); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Arcane Dilettante (3 spells), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety, Improved Grab, Nonlethal Strike +1d6; SQ Keen Scent, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense; AL Neutral; SV Fort +8, Ref +8, Will +8; Str 20, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 12, Cha 6.
Inspiration (8 points/day, add Int mod to rolls), Cunning Insight (expend 1 inspiration to add Int mod to attack, damage, or saves), Cunning Knowledge (expend 1 inspiration for +14 on a skill check), Arcane Dilettante (cast 3 spells/day), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike (expend 1 inspiration for +1d6 sneak attack), Opportunistic Piety (use spells to heal or turn undead), Improved Grab (free grapple check on hit), Keen Scent (detects creatures within 180 ft.). Possessions: Leather armor, Light Pick, manacles.
Level 15 Brief:
By level 15, Bayou’s Reaper is a dominant force in grappling and subduing foes. With powerful grappling techniques, nonlethal strikes, and improved hog tie, he can incapacitate enemies swiftly and efficiently.
Stat Block Level 15:
Bayou’s Reaper: male, Reptilian Creature Human Factotum 8/Justiciar 7/Scaled Horror 1; CR 15; Medium humanoid (human, reptilian); HD 9d8+7d10+32; hp 110; Init +8; Spd 30 ft.; AC 18, touch 14, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +13; Grp +19; Atk light pick +19 melee (1d4+6/x4) or claw +19 melee (1d6+6); Full Atk light pick +19/+14 melee (1d4+6/x4) or claw +19 melee (1d6+6); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Arcane Dilettante (3 spells), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety, Improved Grab, Nonlethal Strike +3d6, Hog Tie, Improved Hog Tie; SQ Keen Scent, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense, Street Savvy (+4); AL Neutral; SV Fort +12, Ref +12, Will +12; Str 22, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 12, Cha 6.
Inspiration (8 points/day, add Int mod to rolls), Cunning Insight (expend 1 inspiration to add Int mod to attack, damage, or saves), Cunning Knowledge (expend 1 inspiration for +15 on a skill check), Arcane Dilettante (cast 3 spells/day), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike (expend 1 inspiration for +1d6 sneak attack), Opportunistic Piety (use spells to heal or turn undead), Improved Grab (free grapple check on hit), Keen Scent (detects creatures within 180 ft.), Nonlethal Strike (+3d6 damage), Hog Tie (restrain target), Improved Hog Tie (restrain target more securely), Street Savvy (+4 to gather info and blend in). Possessions: Leather armor, Light Pick, manacles.
Level 20 Brief:
By level 20, Reaper of the Bayou[1] is a terrifying force of nature with lethal grappling, powerful animal companions, and the ability to instantly kill foes with multiple techniques. His mastery of stealth, combat, and survival makes him nearly unstoppable.
Stat Block Level 20:
Bayou’s Reaper: male, Reptilian Creature Human Factotum 8/Justiciar 8/Beastmaster 3/Scaled Horror 1; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human, reptilian); HD 9d8+8d10+90; hp 156; Init +8; Spd 30 ft.; AC 20, touch 14, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +18; Grp +26; Atk light pick +26 melee (1d4+8/x4) or claw +26 melee (1d6+8); Full Atk light pick +26/+21/+16/+11 melee (1d4+8/x4) or claw +26 melee (1d6+8) and bite +21 melee (1d6+4); SA Inspiration, Cunning Insight, Cunning Knowledge, Arcane Dilettante (3 spells), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike, Opportunistic Piety, Improved Grab, Nonlethal Strike +3d6, Hog Tie, Improved Hog Tie, Coup de Grace; SQ Keen Scent, Brains over Brawn, Cunning Defense, Street Savvy (+4), Animal Companion, Wild Empathy, Speak with Animals 1/Day; AL Neutral; SV Fort +15, Ref +15, Will +15; Str 22, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 12, Cha 6.
Inspiration (8 points/day, add Int mod to rolls), Cunning Insight (expend 1 inspiration to add Int mod to attack, damage, or saves), Cunning Knowledge (expend 1 inspiration for +15 on a skill check), Arcane Dilettante (cast 3 spells/day), Trapfinding, Cunning Strike (expend 1 inspiration for +1d6 sneak attack), Opportunistic Piety (use spells to heal or turn undead), Improved Grab (free grapple check on hit), Keen Scent (detects creatures within 180 ft.), Nonlethal Strike (+3d6 damage), Hog Tie (restrain target), Improved Hog Tie (restrain target more securely), Coup de Grace (execute helpless foe with x4 damage), Street Savvy (+4 to gather info and blend in), Animal Companion (+2 HD, +2 AC, +1 Str/Dex), Wild Empathy (improve attitude of animals), Speak with Animals (1/day). Possessions: Leather armor, Light Pick, manacles.
Critical Milestones
Levels 1-8: Factotum – Build a foundation of versatile skills and cunning tactics.
Levels 9-16: Justiciar – Enhance your grappling skills and bring foes to justice.
Level 17: Scaled Horror – Intimidate and overpower with your reptilian might.
Equipment Progression
Level Range
Equipment
Details
Early Levels
Light Pick
– Primary weapon for close combat. – Deals 1d4 damage with x4 critical multiplier.
Leather Armor
– Provides +2 AC with no penalty to Dexterity. – Light and flexible for mobility and stealth.
Potion of Cure Light Wounds
– Heals 1d8+1 HP for emergencies.
Thieves’ Tools
– Essential for using Disable Device and Open Lock skills.
Adventuring Gear
– Includes backpack, bedroll, flint and steel, rations, rope, and waterskin.
Mid Levels
Cloak of Elvenkind
– Provides a +5 competence bonus to Hide checks.
Boots of Elvenkind
– Provides a +5 competence bonus to Move Silently checks.
Headband of Intellect +2
– Provides +2 enhancement bonus to Intelligence. – Enhances skill checks, spellcasting, and abilities dependent on Intelligence.
Gloves of Dexterity +2
– Provides +2 enhancement bonus to Dexterity. – Improves AC, reflex saves, and skills reliant on Dexterity.
Amulet of Natural Armor +1
– Provides +1 natural armor bonus to AC. – Enhances survivability in combat.
Wand of Cure Light Wounds
– Provides additional healing option. – Use for emergencies when healing potions are insufficient.
Pearl of Power (1st level)
– Allows you to recall a previously cast 1st-level spell once per day. – Increases available spell slots.
Advanced Levels
Headband of Intellect +4
– Upgrade to +4 enhancement bonus to Intelligence. – Further boosts Intelligence-dependent abilities.
Gloves of Dexterity +4
– Upgrade to +4 enhancement bonus to Dexterity. – Further improves Dexterity-dependent skills and combat effectiveness.
Belt of Physical Might +4
– Provides +4 enhancement bonus to Dexterity and Constitution. – Enhances combat effectiveness and survivability.
Ring of Protection +3
– Provides +3 deflection bonus to AC. – Additional protection in combat.
Cloak of Resistance +5
– Provides +5 resistance bonus to all saving throws. – Significantly enhances survivability against spells and effects.
Rod of Extend Metamagic
– Allows you to extend the duration of your spells. – Useful for spells with short durations like Invisibility or Shield.
Combat Scenarios
The Reaper of the Bayou[1] is built for versatility, and that means being ready for any combat scenario that comes your way. Here are five situations where this build shines, including adaptable role builds to help you prevail:
Dungeon Crawls: In the twisting labyrinth of a dungeon, the Bayou’s Reaper excels. With Trapfinding and a high Search skill, you’ll navigate hazards that would ensnare less savvy adventurers. Keep a light pick handy to deal with locks and, if necessary, enemies.
Open Field: When facing enemies in an open field, use your Improved Initiative to gain the upper hand. Your mobility and keen scent allow you to dictate the terms of the engagement, striking swiftly and fading away before retaliation.
Ambushes: Should you find yourself the target of an ambush, rely on your Cunning Insight to turn the tide. Expending inspiration points can give you the edge in surprise rounds, ensuring you’re never caught off guard.
Defensive Stands: When your back’s against the wall, your Justiciar training comes to the fore. Use Nonlethal Strike to incapacitate foes while minimizing collateral damage, keeping the situation under control.
Urban Encounters: Urban environments are your playground, and with your skills, no quarry can hope to escape in the chaos of the city.
Strengths & Weaknesses of the Reaper of the Bayou
Weakness
Counter
Magic Dependence: Limited spellcasting
– Plan arcane abilities carefully. – Use Pearl of Power to recall used spells. – Supplement spellcasting with Wands and Scrolls (e.g., Wand of Cure Light Wounds for healing).
Lower Charisma
– Focus on non-social skills where Charisma is not required. – Rely on allies for social interactions. – Use items that provide temporary Charisma boosts, such as Eagle’s Splendor potions.
Resource Management: Limited Inspiration Points
– Use Inspiration points wisely. – Choose when to use Inspiration for maximum impact. – Carry items that can help mitigate the need for Inspiration, such as Scrolls of Enhance Ability for specific bonuses.
Specialization: Vulnerability to Ranged Attacks
– Use Cover and Concealment to avoid ranged attacks. – Equip items that boost AC against ranged attacks, such as Bracers of Armor. – Use spells like Shield for additional protection.
Alignment Restrictions
– Understand and plan around the alignment restrictions of Justiciar levels. – Ensure roleplaying decisions align with character’s alignment. – Coordinate with the DM to handle alignment conflicts in-game.
Roleplaying Themes for Bayou’s Reaper
Themes & RP Opportunities
Lone Wolf: You often work alone, relying on your wits and strength to get the job done.
Swamp Stalker: The bayou is your home, and you know its secrets better than anyone.
Justice Seeker: You’re not just after bounties for the gold; you’re bringing wrongdoers to justice.
Beast Within: Embrace the animalistic aspects of your Scaled Horror lineage.
Cultural Influence & Traditions
“In the heart of the bayou, where the fog hangs thick and the gators are kings, the Bayou’s Reaper knows that to survive is to respect the old ways. They navigate not just the physical terrain but the spiritual one as well, understanding that every whisper of the wind and ripple in the water has meaning.”
Every step the Reaper of the Bayou[1] takes is a dance with the spirits of the swamp. Your character is a product of the environment, shrouded in the mystique of the bayou—a place where the line between folklore and reality blurs. As a Factotum, your knowledge of local lore is as important as your combat skills. Your character may believe in the guidance of ancestral spirits or the power of sacred sites scattered throughout the wilderness.
Swamp Lore: Your character is well-versed in the legends and creatures that inhabit the bayou.
Rituals: You may perform certain rituals to honor the spirits or gain their favor before a hunt.
Herbalism: Knowledge of the bayou’s flora for healing or creating poisons could be a key aspect of your character.
Begin by fleshing out your character’s backstory. Where did they grow up? What led them to become a bounty hunter? Consider their motivations, fears, and aspirations. Then, start thinking like a Bayou’s Reaper. Be observant, resourceful, and always have a plan. Embrace the bayou’s culture and let it influence your decisions and actions in-game.
Can Bayou’s Reaper fit into any D&D campaign setting?
While the Bayou’s Reaper has a flavor of the swamps, you can adapt the build’s core elements to fit any setting. Whether it’s a dark forest in the Forgotten Realms or the untamed wilds of Eberron, the skills and traits of the Bayou’s Reaper can be a valuable asset to any adventuring party.
The Bayou’s Reaper thrives in a group that can complement their skills. A party with a strong front-line fighter, a spellcaster for ranged support, and a healer makes for a well-rounded team. Your role as the stealthy tracker and information gatherer fills in the gaps, making the group more versatile and ready to face any challenge.
The Factotum class is the backbone of the Reaper of the Bayou[1], providing the versatility and skill breadth that define the build. It allows you to adapt to a variety of situations, using intelligence as a key attribute for both combat and skill use. The class’s unique abilities, like Cunning Insight and Cunning Knowledge, empower you to handle challenges in creative ways that other classes might not be able to manage.
To elevate your gameplay, seek out additional sourcebooks and online forums dedicated to D&D 3.5. There, you’ll find new feats, equipment, and strategies to refine your build. Also, consider joining our community where you can discuss tactics and share stories with other Reaper of the Bayou[1] players.
Join the Stellar Dragons Discord Today
Join the Stellar Dragons Discord now and become part of a growing community of gamers dedicated to the art of the Factotum Bayou’s Reaper build. Let’s hunt some bounties together!
Writer, Editor, GM, Technologist – Andrew’s been playing TTRPGs since as far back as he can recall… at least sometime in the nineties… or was it the early 2000s?
South of the Capital, many criminals hide in the bayou. Here, smugglers deal theirill-gotten goods far outside of the eyes of the law. That is, the eyes of the few lawmen that still care about the law. However, even there these ne’er-do-wells must be on guard, for it makes the Bayou a perfect hunting ground for Bounty Hunters.
There are stories about one such man, whose haunt is the bayou. The major thread of those stories is that he seemingly appears out of no where from the waters. His presence masked completely by the gator skins which he wears. In a quick moment – mere seconds – his prey is caught and brought to the depths for processing.
It is said of this ‘man’ that he speaks with the beasts of the bayou as though conversing in the highest of halls. Furthermore, his best friend is a gigantic, mutated alligator.
Most disturbing, is there are reports that he – himself – has begun to grow leathery scales not unlike the bayou’s gators…
Race
Reptilian Creature Human
Class
Factotum 8/Justiciar 8/Beastmaster 3/Scaled Horror 1 (2 LA Buyback)
This is a OTK build that starts as a grappler build, which comes fully online as soon as lvl 14. From there it just keeps on becoming stronger and more efficient.
With a full attack action, Hog Tie and Improved Grab, plus a single use of Cunning Surge… a single round you’ll: claw someone, grapple them, hit them with your pick, pin them, then hog tie them, and then with your Cunning Surge’s additional standard action Coup de Grace the target. This results in you instantly killing them with a x4 damage autocrit Coup de Grace+Massive Damage double DC. Naturally, both DCs in the lower stratosphere for insta death.
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