At level 1, this Drow Fighter is a ranged combat specialist with a focus on using a Heavy Repeating Crossbow. With feats like Exotic Weapon Proficiency and Point-Blank Shot, the character excels in close-range crossbow attacks. The character also has Weapon Finesse, allowing for better melee combat with finesse weapons. The build is designed for hit-and-run tactics, leveraging high Dexterity for better initiative and attack rolls.
Stat Block Level 1:
Kumo-Roh[1]: female, Drow Fighter 1; CR 1; Medium Humanoid (Elf); HD 1d10+1; hp 11; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 16, touch 12, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +1; Grp +0; Atk Heavy Repeating Crossbow +5 (1d10/19-20) or Rapier +5 (1d6/18-20); Full Atk Heavy Repeating Crossbow +5 (1d10/19-20) or Rapier +5 (1d6/18-20); SA Hit and run; SQ Darkvision 120 ft., Spell resistance 11, Light blindness; AL CE; SV Fort +3, Ref +4, Will +2; Str 13, Dex 18, Con 12, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 16.
Skills and Feats:
Craft (Alchemy) +3, Spellcraft +1, Hide +6, Move Silently +6, Intimidate +8, Concentration +4; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Heavy Repeating Crossbow), At Home in the Deep, Point-Blank Shot, Weapon Finesse. Special Attacks and Qualities: Hit and run: Gain a +2 bonus on initiative checks and a +2 bonus on weapon damage rolls against flat-footed targets. Possessions: Heavy Repeating Crossbow, Rapier, best armor available.
Level 5 Brief:
At level 5, the Drow Fighter excels in using a Heavy Repeating Crossbow, effectively penetrating enemy defenses and causing significant damage. Their intimidation skills are unmatched, striking fear in foes and leading them to surrender easily.
Stat Block Level 5:
Kumo-Roh[1]: female, Drow Fighter 5; CR 5; Medium Humanoid (Elf); HD 5d10+5; hp 32; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 20, touch 12, flat-footed 18; Base Atk +5; Grp +6; Atk Heavy Repeating Crossbow +9 ranged (1d10+1/19-20) or Rapier +6 melee (1d6+1/18-20); Full Atk Heavy Repeating Crossbow +9 ranged (1d10+1/19-20) or Rapier +6 melee (1d6+1/18-20); SA Extended Intimidation; SQ Darkvision 120 ft., Spell Resistance 11, Light Blindness; AL CE; SV Fort +5, Ref +5, Will +2; Str 13, Dex 18, Con 12, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 16.
Skills and Feats:
Craft (Alchemy) 3, Spellcraft 1, Hide 6, Move Silently 6, Intimidate 8, Concentration 4; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Heavy Repeating Crossbow), At Home in the Deep, Point-Blank Shot, Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (Heavy Repeating Crossbow), Iron Will, Skill Focus (Intimidation), Weapon Specialization (Heavy Repeating Crossbow). Special Attacks and Qualities: Extended Intimidation – Intimidation effects last longer. Possessions: Rapier, Heavy Repeating Crossbow, Full Plate Armor.
Level 10 Brief:
This build emphasizes ranged combat with a powerful repeating crossbow at level 10, improved by feats such as Rapid Shot and Precise Shot. The character possesses skills such as Ghost Step and Frightful Strike, which make them a strong adversary in both long-distance and close-quarters fighting.
Stat Block Level 10:
Kumo-Roh[1]: female, Drow Fighter 6/Warrior of Darkness 4/Ghost-Faced Killer 10; CR 10; Medium Humanoid (Elf); HD 6d10+4d10+10; hp 70; Init +5; Spd 30 ft.; AC 20, touch 12, flat-footed 18; Base Atk +10; Grp +11; Atk Repeating Heavy Crossbow +14 ranged (1d10+1) or Rapier +11 melee (1d6+1); Full Atk Repeating Heavy Crossbow +14/+9 ranged (1d10+1) or Rapier +11/+6 melee (1d6+1); SA Sudden Strike +2d6, Frightful Strike 1/day; SQ Darkvision 120 ft., Spell Resistance 11, Ghost Step 2/day, Black Oil; AL CE; SV Fort +8, Ref +7, Will +6; Str 13, Dex 20, Con 12, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 16.
At level 15, this Drow Fighter build stands out in both ranged and melee fighting. By concentrating on employing a Repeating Heavy Crossbow, the character has the ability to release a succession of bolts every round. The construction includes techniques for stealth and intimidation, allowing it to be a versatile and powerful adversary. Ghost Step and Frightful Attack boost its fighting skills, with excellent Dexterity and Charisma helping with both offense and defense.
Stat Block Level 15:
Kumo-Roh[1]: female, Drow Fighter 6/Warrior of Darkness 4/Ghost-Faced Killer 5; CR 15; Medium humanoid (elf); HD 6d10+4d10+5d8+15; hp 90; Init +9; Spd 30 ft.; AC 25, touch 15, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +13; Grp +14; Atk Repeating Heavy Crossbow +19 ranged (1d10+1/19-20) or Rapier +14 melee (1d6+1/18-20); Full Atk Repeating Heavy Crossbow +19/+14/+9 ranged (1d10+1/19-20) or Rapier +14/+9/+4 melee (1d6+1/18-20); SA Sudden Strike +3d6, Frightful Attack 2/Day, Ghost Step (Ethereal); SQ Darkvision 120 ft., Spell Resistance 15, Light Blindness, Ghost Sight, Ghost Step 3/Day; AL CE; SV Fort +10, Ref +12, Will +8; Str 13, Dex 22, Con 12, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 16.
Kumo-Roh[1], a proficient Drow Fighter at level 20, specializes in utilizing a repeating heavy crossbow for long-distance combat. She is skilled in covert operations, instilling fear, and executing rapid attacks, rendering her a deadly assassin. Her abilities include the power to become invisible, walk through walls, and have night vision. In close combat, she switches to a rapier and uses her skill at intimidating enemies to instill fear.
Stat Block Level 20:
Kumo-Roh[1]: female, Drow Fighter 6/Warrior of Darkness 4/Ghost-Faced Killer 10; CR 20; Medium humanoid (elf); HD 6d10+4d10+10d8+20; hp 135; Init +9; Spd 30 ft.; AC 25, touch 15, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +18; Grp +19; Atk +24 ranged (1d10+1/19-20, repeating heavy crossbow) or +20 melee (1d6+1/18-20, rapier); Full Atk +24/+19/+14/+9 ranged (1d10+1/19-20, repeating heavy crossbow) or +20/+15/+10/+5 melee (1d6+1/18-20, rapier); SA Sudden Strike +3d6, Frightful Attack 3/Day, Ghost Step 4/Day; SQ Darkvision 120 ft., Spell Resistance 15, Light Blindness, Ghost Sight, Ensorcelled Flesh +1 Natural Armor; AL CE; SV Fort +14, Ref +15, Will +10; Str 13, Dex 22, Con 12, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 16.
Skills and Feats:
Craft (Alchemy) +3, Spellcraft +1, Hide +26, Move Silently +26, Intimidate +28, Concentration +4; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Heavy Repeating Crossbow), Point-Blank Shot, Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (Heavy Repeating Crossbow), Iron Will, Skill Focus (Intimidate), Weapon Specialization (Heavy Repeating Crossbow), Power Attack, Improved Initiative, Blind-Fight, Precise Shot, Rapid Shot, Imperious Command, Ranged Weapon Mastery. Special Attacks and Qualities: Sudden Strike +3d6, Frightful Attack 3/Day, Ghost Step 4/Day (Ethereal), Ghost Sight, Black Oil, Darkling Weapon, Black Magic Elixir (Aura of Evil), Ensorcelled Flesh +1 Natural Armor. Possessions: Repeating Heavy Crossbow (Splitting enhancement), Rapier, Full Plate Armor (best available, enchanted), various alchemical items.
Starting out, Kumo-Roh wields her heavy repeating crossbow with deadly accuracy, courtesy of feats like Exotic Weapon Proficiency and Point-Blank Shot. As she levels up, she gains access to the Warrior of Darkness and Ghost-Faced Killer prestige classes, each adding layers of stealth and attack capabilities. Most importantly, by level 20, she’s a terror on the battlefield with abilities like Sudden Strike and Frightful Attack.
Levels 1-6: Build a solid base with feats like Power Attack and Improved Initiative to strike hard and fast.
Levels 11-20: Embrace the Ghost-Faced Killer’s Sudden Strike and Ghost Step abilities for ethereal movement and devastating surprise attacks.
Critical Enhancements for the Kumo-Roh
Splitting Enhancement: Doubles the number of bolts fired—a must-have for any ranged combat specialist.
Ensorcelled Flesh: Increases natural armor and Dexterity, perfect for a stealthy fighter.
Darkling Weapon: A weapon imbued with the essence of darkness, it’s ideal for a Drow’s shadowy nature.
Combat Strategies involving Kumo-Roh
Keep your distance and let bolts fly. Use your speed to find the perfect vantage point, and remember, with the Splitting Enhancement, every shot counts twice.
Party Synergy
Team Formations That Highlight Kumo-Roh’s Strengths
When assembling a team around Kumo-Roh, consider incorporating allies that benefit from her unique abilities. A Barbarian Raging Nomad could be a formidable ally, leveraging Kumo-Roh’s tactical prowess to maximize their own raging fury on the battlefield.
Because of her exceptional ranged attacks, she thrives when she can strike without drawing attention to herself. Position her where she can safely cover her allies, ideally in high or hidden locations. This way, she can rain down bolts on the enemy, while her companions keep the foes engaged up close.
Combat Scenarios
Dungeons
Use Ghost Step to phase through walls for surprise attacks or quick escapes.
Exploit ambush opportunities using Sudden Strike for devastating effects.
Open Field Battles
Maintain distance from foes with superior speed.
Stay on the move to become a harder target.
Fire precise shots while using agility to maneuver around the battlefield.
Consider Barbarian build tactics for unleashing fury in open combat.
Ambushes
Utilize Frightful Attack to demoralize enemies, making them easier targets.
Use the environment to your advantage by hiding in shadows or using elevation.
Defensive Strategies:
Employ the Blind-Fight feat to counter foes that rely on invisibility or darkness.
Leverage rapier skills for lethal close-quarters combat.
Urban Environment Adaptation
Utilize narrow alleys and rooftops as your playground.
Navigate nighttime encounters using Darkvision.
Find perfect sniping spots for ranged attacks.
Be ready to switch to rapier for closer engagements in urban settings.
Strengths & Weaknesses of the Kumo-Roh
Weaknesses
Counters
Reliance on Stealth: Vulnerable if detected or caught in open.
– Always have an escape route planned. – Use items like Cloak of Elvenkind for enhanced stealth. – Carry a Ring of Invisibility for additional stealth options.
Close-Range Combat: Limited effectiveness if forced into melee.
– Collaborate with party members to cover weak spots. – Use potions of invisibility to reposition. – Equip an Amulet of Mighty Fists for additional combat options.
Light Blindness: Penalized in bright light.
– Equip items like Goggles of Day for protection against light blindness.
Limited Daily Abilities: Ghost Step and Frightful Attack are limited per day.
– Conserve these abilities for critical situations and leverage other skills in routine combat. – Carry wands of invisibility for additional uses. – Use Rod of Cancellation for countering magic effects.
Stealth Dependent: Ineffective if enemies can detect invisible or ethereal entities.
– Use Ghost Step for quick escapes and repositioning. – Carry a Ring of Chameleon Power for additional stealth options. – Equip Boots of Striding and Springing for improved mobility.
Mobility Reliant: Vulnerable if mobility is hindered (e.g., immobilized, restrained).
– Keep distance and use ranged attacks to avoid being cornered. – Use items like Boots of Speed for quick retreats and pursuits.
Direct Combat: Less effective in prolonged direct combat scenarios.
– Utilize hit-and-run tactics to avoid prolonged engagements. – Equip with a Ring of Free Action to maintain mobility in close quarters.
Resource Management: Multiple limited-use abilities require careful management to avoid being caught off-guard.
– Prioritize ability usage based on encounter difficulty and avoid over-reliance on any single tactic. – Carry potions of cure serious wounds for emergencies.
Roleplaying Themes for the Kumo-Roh
Roleplaying a character like Kumo-Roh is as much about embracing her combat style as it is about diving into the rich lore of the Drow. Let’s explore how to bring this dark elven legacy to life in your campaign.
Tapping into the Drow’s Mysterious Lore
The race of dark elves called the Drow are renowned for their sly magic, ambition, and cunning. You come from a society that values strength and cunning, Kumo-Roh[1]. Make use of this history to influence how you engage with both the Underdark’s politics and the outside world. Playing a Drow means embracing a complex character who is often misunderstood and feared by the surface dwellers. This can lead to intriguing interactions and moral dilemmas that can add depth to your campaign.
“As Kumo-Roh, you’re not just a fighter; you’re a survivor of the cutthroat hierarchy of the Underdark. Your actions should reflect the cunning and resourcefulness required to thrive in such a world.”
Crafting Your Dark Elven Persona: Tips and Tricks
Develop a backstory that includes your rise through the ranks of the Spider Brigade.
Embrace the Drow’s affinity for spiders, perhaps by using spider-themed equipment or abilities.
Immersing yourself in the role of Kumo-Roh can be a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you’re spinning a web of intrigue or striking from the darkness, remember that you carry the legacy of an entire race on your shoulders. Play it with the cunning and grace it deserves.
Cultural Influence & Traditions for the Kumo-Roh[1]
Being a Drow who hails from the Underdark, Kumo-Roh[1] is influenced by a culture that is both unique and unforgiving. The Drow culture is ruled by women, who revere the deity Lolth, the spider goddess, and is notorious for its manipulation and betrayal among members. In order to roleplay as Kumo-Roh[1] effectively, you must incorporate these elements into her interactions and decisions. Regardless of whether she is strongly devoted to her household or a rebel exploring a different direction, her cultural heritage should be a significant factor in her narrative.
When bringing Kumo-Roh to life at the gaming table, consider how her upbringing in the Underdark has influenced her worldview. She might be suspicious of surface dwellers, or perhaps she has a deep-seated ambition to rise in power. Her actions should be calculated, and her alliances, though tenuous, should serve her ultimate goals. The etiquette of the Underdark is one of survival and advancement—embrace this in your portrayal of Kumo-Roh.
The Etiquette of the Underdark: Customs to Adopt in Game
Roleplaying a character from the Underdark means understanding the unspoken rules of Drow society. Here are a few customs to consider:
Power is everything. Show respect to those in authority, but always be ready to seize opportunity.
Deception is an art form. Whether negotiating with allies or enemies, always have a hidden agenda.
The worship of Lolth is central. Even if Kumo-Roh is not a devout follower, the influence of the spider goddess should be evident in her actions and choices.
FAQ
What is the ideal combat role for Kumo-Roh in a party setting?
Kumo-Roh[1] is highly skilled at dealing ranged damage and being a sneaky scout. At the party, her main focus should be on eliminating important targets from afar and collecting vital information through reconnaissance. She is able to blend into the shadows and attack unexpectedly, making her a valuable member of any adventuring team.
How does one effectively role-play the cultural intricacies of a Dark Elven Fighter?
To truly embody a Dark Elven Fighter like Kumo-Roh, immerse yourself in the lore of the Drow. Understand their values, their ruthless nature, and their penchant for dark magic. Portray Kumo-Roh as a character shaped by the harsh realities of the Underdark, with a keen sense of survival and a drive to assert dominance.
Can Kumo-Roh’s build be adjusted for non-assassin campaign styles?
Although Kumo-Roh[1] is well-suited for the role of an assassin, her skills are flexible enough to be used in various campaign styles. Whether you are investigating political deception or uncovering historical sites, her skill in combat and stealth is useful in different situations.
What are the must-have items for Kumo-Roh as she progresses?
As Kumo-Roh levels up, her equipment should reflect her growing abilities. Here are some must-have items:
A high-quality repeating crossbow with magical enhancements, such as the Splitting property.
Armor that enhances her stealth, like Mithral Full Plate, to provide protection without hindering movement.
Items that boost her Dexterity and Wisdom, such as Gloves of Dexterity and a Headband of Inspired Wisdom, to improve her combat and perception abilities.
How do you recover from a poorly executed ambush using Kumo-Roh?
Even the best-laid plans can fail, but Kumo-Roh[1] is not without resources. If an ambush goes wrong, use her Ghost Step ability to quickly reposition or retreat to safety. Regroup with your party, and use the environment to your advantage to set up a counter-ambush or find an alternative approach to the encounter.
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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?
The dim light from her torch was barely illuminating the walls of the labyrinth.
After years of devoting her life to the sword, she finally laid claim to this castle. This place would serve as her base of operation against the evil armies from the Underdark. She never abandoned her dream, and now she was so close to it.
Suddenly, she stopped midstride as a pair of glowing red eyes appeared in the distance.
She raised her torch, only to see the dark form in black plate armor, a large crossbow by the dark elf’s hip. The warrior only barely had time to raise her shield, which was battered by several bolts. Quickly, she ran back across a corner, yet that was not good enough – another pair of red eyes awaited her.
A brief flash of memory brought to mind the rumors of the Dark Elves special assassination brigade, the Kumo-Rohs.
She groaned. What she was facing weren’t merely rumors. And she was cornered…
Race
Drow(2 LA Buy Back) (Drow Fighter and Zhentarim Fighter ACF)
Class
Fighter 6/Warrior of Darkness 4/Ghost-Faced Killer 10
A Rapier, a Repeating Heavy Crossbow and the best armor you can find.
Eventually have it enchanted with the Splitting enhancement.
Goal
Yes, I went there.
No, I am not sorry.
You go around in a full plate and use a repeating heavy crossbow to shoot tens of bolts per round. Invisibility, the capability to walk through walls and even see through the Darkness spell are yours to command. Even in melee, you’re a formidable opponent and can switch to your Rapier while using Intimidation to completely send your foes running in panic.
Level
Class
HD
Feat
Special
1
Fighter
11
Exotic Weapon Proficiency(Hea vy Repeating Crossbow, At Home in the Deep, Point-Blank Shot, Weapon Finesse
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