This build combines the Knight class with the thematic Ghostwalker progression for versatility and power. With Weapon Finesse and Dreadful Wrath, it’s effective in combat and intimidating foes.
Stat Block Level 1:
Black Rose Knight[1]: female, Changeling Knight 1; CR 1; Medium humanoid (Shapechanger[2]); HD 1d12+1; hp 13; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 18, touch 13, flat-footed 15; Base Atk +1; Grp +2; Atk rapier +4 (1d6+1/18-20) or shield bash +3 (1d4+1); Full Atk rapier +4 (1d6+1/18-20) or shield bash +3 (1d4+1); SA Fighting Challenge +1, Knight’s Challenge, Dreadful Wrath; SQ Knight’s Code; AL LG; SV Fort +3, Ref +3, Will +2; Str 13, Dex 16, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Intimidate 4, Move Silently 4; Weapon Finesse, Power Attack, Dreadful Wrath. Special Attacks and Qualities: Fighting Challenge +1 – bonus to attacks against a single target; Knight’s Code – code of honor. Possessions: Rapier, shield, best armor affordable.
Level 5 Brief:
At level 5, the Black Rose Knight[1] excels at tanking and crowd control. With solid defenses and the ability to withstand considerable punishment, they are the stalwart protector of the group. Their high Intimidate ranks, combined with abilities like Vigilant Defender and Test of Mettle, make them a formidable presence on the battlefield.
Stat Block Level 5:
Black Rose Knight[1]: Female, Changeling Knight 5; CR 5; Medium humanoid (shapechanger[2]); HD 5d12+2; hp 42; Init +2; Spd 20 ft.; AC 20, touch 10, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +5; Grp +6; Atk +7 melee (1d6+2/18-20, +1 Rapier) or +5 ranged; Full Atk +7 melee (1d6+2/18-20, +1 Rapier) or +5 ranged; SA Fighter Challenge +1, Knight’s Challenge, Knight’s Code, Shield Ally; SQ Bulwark of Defense, Medium Armor Mastery, Vigilant Defender, Test of Mettle; AL LG; SV Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +5; Str 13, Dex 16, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Intimidate +9, Move Silently +6; Weapon Finesse, Power Attack, Dreadful Wrath, Mounted Combatant, Iron Will, Endurance. Special Attacks and Qualities: Knight abilities provide defensive bonuses to allies and increase battlefield control. Possessions: +1 Rapier, Heavy Shield, Full Plate Armor.
Level 10 Brief:
The Black Rose Knight[1] is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, boasting strong tanking capabilities, impressive damage output, and maxed-out Intimidate checks. They can travel large distances quickly, becoming Ethereal and using Shadow Walk.
Stat Block Level 10:
Black Rose Knight[1]: female, Changeling Knight 10/Ghostwalker 5; CR 10; Medium humanoid (shapechanger[2]); HD 10d12+10+5d10+5; hp 172; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 22, touch 13, flat-footed 19; Base Atk +15; Grp +16; Atk +19 Rapier (1d6+2, 18-20/x2); Full Atk +19/+14/+9 Rapier (1d6+2, 18-20/x2); SA Dreadful Wrath (Fear effects on attack), Fighting Challenge +2, Painful Reckoning +4; SQ Shield Block +1, Bulwark of Defense, Test of Mettle, Vigilant Defender, Shield Ally, Resolute Aura, Anonymity, Etherealness 1/Day, Shadow Walk; AL LG; SV Fort +9, Ref +6, Will +9; Str 13, Dex 16, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Intimidate +18, Move Silently +4; Weapon Finesse, Power Attack, Dreadful Wrath, Mounted Combat, Iron Will, Endurance, Toughness, Imperious Command. Special Attacks and Qualities: Can send enemies cowering with full attack (Intimidate +40), nullifies Power Attacks against self, becomes Ethereal and uses Shadow Walk for quick travel. Possessions: A Rapier, a Shield, the best armor you can afford.
Level 15 Brief:
The Black Rose Knight[1] at level 15 excels in battlefield control with high Intimidate checks, ethereal damage avoidance, and rapid movement via Shadow Walk. This includes using a Ghost Touch weapon and the best armor available for maintaining strong defenses.
Stat Block Level 15:
Black Rose Knight[1]: female, Changeling Knight 10/Ghostwalker 5; CR 15; Medium Humanoid (Shapechanger[2]); HD 10d12+5d10+39; hp 123; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 20, touch 13, flat-footed 17; Base Atk +13; Grp +13; Atk Rapier +19 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Shield Bash +15 melee (1d4+1); Full Atk Rapier +19/+14/+9 melee (1d6+1/18-20) and Shield Bash +15 melee (1d4+1); SA Dreadful Wrath, Painful Reckoning +9, Test of Mettle; SQ Fighting Challenge +2, Knight’s Challenge, Knight’s Code, Shield Block +1, Bulwark of Defense, Armor Mastery (Medium), Vigilant Defender, Shield Ally, Resolute Aura, Anonymity, Feign Death, Etherealness 2/Day, Shadow Walk; AL LG; SV Fort +15, Ref +10, Will +16; Str 13, Dex 18, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Intimidate +27, Move Silently +19; Weapon Finesse, Power Attack, Dreadful Wrath, Mounted Combattant, Iron Will, Endurance, Toughness, Imperious Command, Superior Iron Will, Dodge, Mobility. Special Attacks and Qualities: PA nullification, Etherealness, Shadow Plane travel, high Intimidate checks causing enemies to cower. Possessions: Rapier (Ghost Touch), Shield, Best armor available.
Black Rose Knight[1]: female, changeling knight 10/ghostwalker 10; CR 20; Medium humanoid (shapechanger[2]); HD 10d12+10d10+20; hp 164; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 25, touch 12, flat-footed 23; Base Atk +17; Grp +18; Atk Rapier +24 (1d6+1/18-20) or Shield Bash +18 (1d3+1); Full Atk Rapier +24/+19/+14/+9 (1d6+1/18-20) and Shield Bash +18 (1d3+1); SA Fighting Challenge +2, Bulwark of Defense, Test of Mettle, Painful Reckoning +10, Intimidate +40, Etherealness 3/day, Shadow Walk; SQ Anonymity, Feign Death, Resolute Aura, Armor Mastery (Heavy), Knight’s Code; AL LG; SV Fort +12, Ref +11, Will +15; Str 13, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills and Feats:
Intimidate +40, Move Silently +24; Weapon Finesse, Power Attack, Dreadful Wrath, Mounted Combat, Iron Will, Endurance, Toughness, Imperious Command, Dodge, Mobility, Elusive Target, Diehard. Possessions: A Ghost Touch Rapier, Shield, Full Plate Armor.
Critical Milestones of Level Distribution
Levels 1-4: Establish your Knight’s foundational abilities, including Shield Block and Armor Mastery (Medium).
Levels 5-7: Enhance defensive tactics with Vigilant Defender and Shield Ally.
Levels 8-10: Transition into the Ghostwalker class, gaining unique abilities like Painful Reckoning and Etherealness.
Levels 11-14: Improve combat prowess with higher Painful Reckoning damage and increased mobility through Shadow Walk.
Levels 15-20: Maximize your Knight’s challenges and combat strategies, acquiring endgame abilities like Fighting Challenge +2 and Armor Mastery (Heavy).
Equipment Progression
Level Range
Equipment
Details
Early Game (1-5)
– Rapier – Shield – Chain Shirt
– Rapier: Basic weapon, 1d6 damage, critical 18-20/x2. – Shield: Basic shield for added defense. – Chain Shirt: Medium armor, AC +4, Max Dex +4, Check Penalty -2.
– +1 Rapier: Enhanced weapon for better attack/damage. – +1 Shield: Improved defense. – Mithral Breastplate: Medium armor, AC +5, Max Dex +5, Check Penalty -1. – Cloak of Resistance +1: +1 to saving throws.
Late Game (10-15)
– Ghost Touch Rapier – +2 Shield – +2 Full Plate Armor – Amulet of Natural Armor +2
– Ghost Touch Rapier: Can hit ethereal creatures. – +2 Shield: Superior defense. – +2 Full Plate Armor: Heavy armor, AC +10, Max Dex +1, Check Penalty -5. – Amulet of Natural Armor +2: +2 to AC.
End Game (15-20)
– Ghost Touch Rapier +3 – +3 Shield – +3 Full Plate Armor – Ring of Etherealness
– Ghost Touch Rapier +3: High damage against any foe. – +3 Shield: Exceptional defense. – +3 Full Plate Armor: Maximum protection, AC +11, Max Dex +1, Check Penalty -4. – Ring of Etherealness: Grants ethereal movement.
Combat Scenarios & Strategies
Dungeon Crawls: Use Ghost Touch Rapier and Etherealness to strike undead and avoid being surrounded while maintaining mobility in tight spaces.
Open Field: Open with a Dreadful Wrath-enhanced charge, utilize mounted combat for mobility, and coordinate with ranged allies for tactical advantage.
Ambushes: Detect ambushes with high Intimidate and Spot checks, then counterattack swiftly using Dreadful Wrath and reposition with Move Silently.
Defensive Stands: Fortify your position using Shield Block and high AC to absorb attacks, while using Test of Mettle to protect allies and strategically retreat if necessary.
Urban Encounters: Control crowds with Intimidate, engage with quick, precise strikes using Ghost Touch Rapier, and use Etherealness for surprise attacks and evasive maneuvers.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Weakness
Counters
Vulnerability to Magic
– Spell Resistance Gear: Equip items such as Amulet of Spell Resistance or Cloak of Resistance +5. – Magic Circle Against Evil: Use this spell to create a protective barrier against evil spells.
Lower Damage Output
– Magical Weapon Enhancements: Enhance your rapier with Flaming or Keen enchantments. – Power Attack Feat: Trade attack bonus for damage with Power Attack.
Limited Ranged Options
– Ally Synergy: Coordinate with allies proficient in ranged combat. – Throwing Weapon: Carry throwing weapons such as Javelins or Throwing Daggers. – Feats: Invest in feats like Far Shot .
Dependence on Armor
– Quick Don/Doff Armor Feats: Learn Quick Draw and Armor Mastery feats. – Mithral Armor: Use Mithral Full Plate for reduced armor check penalties and faster donning/doffing.
Control Immunity Foes
– Alternative Tactics: Develop hit-and-run strategies or take on support roles. – Feats: Invest in Improved Feint to trick enemies, and Tumble Skill to move around the battlefield efficiently.
Roleplaying Themes
Cultural Influence & Traditions
The Black Rose Knight build is steeped in a rich tapestry of cultural influences that can be drawn from both the material and ethereal planes. As a changeling, your character might embody the duality of existence, constantly balancing between two worlds. This duality can be reflected in the knight’s values, attire, and even combat style—each a blend of the corporeal and the ghostly.
Chivalry and Honor: Upholding a strict code of conduct that values bravery, courtesy, and respect.
Ethereal Heritage: Embracing the ghostly aspects of the Ghostwalker class to represent a connection to the spirit world.
Dual Identity: As a changeling, exploring the themes of transformation and the fluidity of self.
Think about the defining moments that shaped your knight’s life. Maybe a near-death experience revealed their ability to walk the ethereal plane, or a mentor taught them the importance of honor in a world filled with deception. These experiences are the crucible in which your character was forged.
Origin Story: How did your character come to walk the path of the Black Rose Knight?
Motivations: What drives your character to face the dangers of adventuring?
Connections: Who are the allies and enemies that have shaped your character’s journey?
At low levels, focus on gear that enhances your mobility and defense. A good quality rapier and shield are essential, as is medium armor that doesn’t hinder your movement. As you gain levels, look for items that complement your growing ethereal abilities, like armor that offers protection against incorporeal attacks.
The Black Rose Knight’s ability to control the battlefield makes them an excellent ally for spellcasters who need protection and ranged attackers who benefit from having enemies kept at a distance. Their intimidating presence can also complement the skills of a party’s rogue or bard by creating distractions and opportunities for subterfuge.
Can you explain how to use the Black Rose Knight[1]’s abilities effectively in an ambush scenario?
Safeguarding your group is your top priority during an ambush. To put a wall between the enemy and your allies, use your Bulwark of Defense. Next, use your terrifying fury to weaken and lessen the impact of your adversaries. Lastly, use your ethereal powers to strategically shift your position in order to attack from an unexpected angle or divert enemy fire away from your allies.
Remember, the element of surprise can work in your favor as well. Being able to become ethereal means you can pass through walls or floors to flank your enemies or escape danger. Use this to turn the tables on your assailants.
What are the cultural traditions to consider when roleplaying a Black Rose Knight[1]?
Consider the traditions of chivalry and the supernatural elements that influence your character. Incorporate rituals or sayings that reflect your knight’s commitment to their code. Perhaps they refuse to strike an unarmed opponent, or they have a specific phrase they utter before engaging in combat. These small details can add depth to your roleplaying.
Every build has its limitations, but these can always be worked around. Invest in equipment and magical items that counterbalance your weaknesses as the Black Rose Knight[1], such as spell resistance to ward off countermagic attacks. Collaborate closely with your group to make sure that they can step in for you in any circumstances that you might find difficult, such as against opponents who are immune to mind-affecting powers.
Use Spell Resistance gear to protect against magic.
Coordinate with your party to cover your weaknesses in combat.
Focus on using your ethereal abilities strategically to avoid or mitigate damage.
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the mysts of fall provide the perfect backdrop for the tales of your Black Rose Knight. The ethereal whispers of the season echo the ghostly powers at your command, and the chill in the air mirrors the dread you inspire in your foes. Embrace the mystery, the power, and the honor of the Black Rose Knight, and let your legend be as enduring as the autumnal season.
Whether standing sentinel against the encroaching darkness or walking the fine line between life and death, your journey as a Black Rose Knight is one of constant discovery and boundless potential. So, draw your rapier, adjust your shield, and step into the mist. Adventure awaits.
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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?
In the realm of Fall, a land of misty valleys and untraveled forests, there are stories of a single knight. They always come with the mist, carried to those who need their help the most. In appearance, as a member of the race of the those who called out to them. Be the caller aware or not of the request for aid.
And they never outstay their welcome. These Black Rose Knights leave as soon as help is no longer needed. Departing as they arrived, swallowed once again by the heavy mists which weigh heavily on this country.
It is said that they cannot be killed, and can travel hundreds of miles in mere moments. That they are made from the very mists who follow them around, and that no sword can slay them.
The old man finished his tale by spreading petals of black roses on the heads of the children. They marveled at the idea of such an enigmatic knight whom no one truly knew. As they were hushed to their bedrooms, the inn slowly emptying, the innkeeper asked the old man.
Hidden Protector
“Are the stories about the Knights of the Black Rose true?” The old man smirked warmly and pensively at the question.
“Who knows, maybe he’s in here right now, silently protecting the sleep of these young children against the things that go bump in the night. After all, children too, unknowingly, call out to him.” He smiled at the innkeeper, who had her hands on her hips in a semi-amused pose.
“Well, if he is, I hope he also gets a good night’s sleep.“
“Aye, so do I,” the old man smirked, as he slowly stumbled to his room.
“Speaking of, how long will you be staying.“
The old man turned around, no longer an old man, but a pale young woman smiling softly. At the sight, the innkeeper lost consciousness.
The Black Rose Knight caught her before she hit the floor, laid her down softly in her bed. She then whispered with a crystalline voice, “As long as I am needed here, of course. “
Race
Changeling
Class
Knight 10/Ghostwalker 10
Ability Scores
Str 13/Dex 16/Con 13/Int 12/Wis 10/Cha 14
Skills
Intimidate 4, Move Silently 4
Flaws
Unreactive, Vulnerable
Equipment
A Rapier, a Shield, the best armor you can afford.
Goal
This build is extremely fun to roleplay, yet incredibly strong on the battlefield.
Capable of being amongst the best tanks, a higher than average damage dealer, and one of the best Intimidancers in 3.5. This is because by Level 20 you can have in the +40s in Intimidate, and can send enemies cowering each time you make a full attack action.
You are also a complete pain in the backside to deal with since you can just straight up nullify Power Attacks against you. You’re able to become Ethereal (I recommend getting a Ghost Touch weapon) and use Shadow Walk to enter the Shadow Plane. This lets you travel ridiculous distances in a matter of hours.
-“What happened to her after you defeated the beast?” Asked one of the kids, the old man across from them gave a mild chuckle, their curiosity always bringing a smile to him. He scratched his chin slowly, collecting his thoughts as the fire cracked in the fireplace. The whole inn was listening to the half-elf’s story now.
-“Well, as well traveled as I am, there were many things I could teach her, I could teach everything about listening to nature, how to hunt beasts and how to recognize plants and prints. Though, as with all teachers, there were some things I could never teach her. How to be a beast, as she already was, being a werewolf and all. She wanted to learn to better control and use that part of her. So she left too, eventually, in search of the Lady of the Woods.”
There were whispers in the inn when that name came out of the storyteller’s mouth. The traveling woman pulled out a smoke pipe and started cleaning it, and prepared some dried herbs.The half-elf continued unfazed.
-“The Lady is said to be as old as the forest, and its most ancient guardian, capable of taking the form of all the beasts who walk its depths. From the smallest insect to the most majestic dragon, she is one with each of these forms. If someone could teach our young wolf lady how to control her inner beast, it was the Lady.”
Race
Changeling
Class
Wildshaping Ranger 5(Variant)/Master of Many Forms 10/Nature’s Warrior 3/Warshaper 2
You are a ranger capable of Wildshaping like the druid. But you take that ability and crank it to eleven. You have more than ten uses per day, can change your form in the same use of wild shape, and can take nearly any form in the monster manual. This makes you a fantastic swiss army knife of a character, with a form for every situation, and by gaining the Extraordinary abilities of your forms, your toolset only expands even more. Take the form of a fly to spy on a conversation or the form of a friggin’ Dragon to fight virtually any enemy as two examples.
And they say only Tier 1 characters have a backpocket plan for any situation…
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