Inexhaustible Dragon Sovereign

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Inexhaustible Dragon Sovereign

Dragonborn Paladin (Fighter)/Questing Knight/Legendary Sovereign



dragonbornpaladin.jpg


This build uses the following sources:

AV - Adventurer's Vault
AV2 - Adventurer's Vault 2
D XXX - Dragon Magazine, issue XXX
DP - Divine Power
E2 KotG - E2 Kingdom of the Ghouls
E:HFL - Essentials: Heroes of the Fallen Lands
E:HFK - Essentials: Heroes of the Forgotten Kingdoms
EPG - Eberron Player's Guide
MOTP - Manual of the Planes
MP - Martial Power
MP2 - Martial Power 2
PHB - Player's Handbook
PHB2 - Player's Handbook 2
PHB3 - Player's Handbook 3
PHR:D - Player's Handbook Races: Dragonborn

Lv. 1 snapshot


Race: Dragonborn (PHB)
Class: Paladin (PHB)
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Lay on Hands
Theme: Guardian (D 399)

Ability Scores, with racial adjustments:
Strength 13 (+1)
Constitution 16 (+2)
Dexterity 10 (+1)
Intelligence 8 (-1)
Wisdom 14 (+2)
Charisma 18 (+4)

HP: 31 --> 15 base, +16 Constitution
Bloodied: 15 HP or less
Healing Surges: 13 --> 10 base, +3 Constitution
Healing Surge Value: 10 HP --> 7 base, +3 Constitution

AC: 20 --> 10 base, +8 armor, +2 heavy shield
Fortitude: 14 --> 10 base, +3 ability (Constitution), +1 class
Reflex: 13 --> 10 base, +0 ability (Dexterity), +1 class, +2 heavy shield
Will: 15 --> 10 base, +4 ability (Charisma), +1 class

Initiative: +0 --> +0 ability (Dexterity)

Speed: 5 --> 6 base, -1 armor

At-Will Attack Powers:
L1 - Enfeebling Strike (PHB)
L1 - Virtuous Strike (DP)

Encounter Attack Powers:
L1 - Valorous Smite (DP)

Daily Attack Powers:
L1 - Majestic Halo (DP)

Skills:
Religion (+4) --> -1 ability (Intelligence), +5 trained
Diplomacy (+9) --> +4 ability (Charisma), +5 trained
Insight (+7) --> +2 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained
Heal (+7) --> +2 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained

Feats:
L1 - Draconic Challenge (DP)

Gear (Expected GP = 100):
Longsword (PHB) (15 gp)
Plate armor (PHB) (50 gp)
Standard adventurer's kit (PHB) (15 gp)
Heavy shield (PHB) (10 gp)
10 gp

Discussion:
This Dragonborn Chaladin starts out like most, focusing on Charisma, then Constitution and Wisdom, and finally enough Strength to qualify him for feats later in his career.

He takes Draconic Challenge from the start, like any Dragonborn Paladin ought to. Coupled with his encounter power, Valorous Smite, he's starting his career right off the bat with two mass-Sanction abilities every fight. His daily brings even more Sanctioning to the table in a particularly tough fight, and his at-will Enfeebling Strike allows him to add further insult to injury with its extra attack debuff. Virtuous Strike is there simply to give him a credible MBA (and thus force enemies to account for his OAs).

He takes the Guardian Theme to have a punishment stacker right off the bat, too.



Lv. 2


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feat: Improved Initiative (PHB)
New Utility Power: Virtue (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 1,920):
L3 (680 gp): +1 Meliorating Plate (AV)
L3 (680 gp): +1 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L2 (520 gp): +1 Amulet of Physical Resolve (PHB)
TOTAL: 1,880 gp

Discussion:
With two mass-Sanctions to start, you'd better make sure you can take the abuse. Which is exactly why you're taking Virtue for a cushion of THPs every encounter (you can expect to burn at least one surge every fight). It also makes sense that you'd want to put enemies on notice before they ever get to act, so you take Improved Initiative for your feat here.

Magic items come into play here, too. Meliorating Plate gets better as the day goes on, the Inescapable Longsword makes sure you keep misses to a minimum, and the Amulet of Physical Resolve is a neat save bonus against some annoying conditions.



Lv. 3


Changes:
+6 HP
New Encounter Attack Power: Righteous Smite (PHB)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 2,560):
L3 (680 gp): +1 Meliorating Plate (AV)
L3 (680 gp): +1 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L2 (520 gp): +1 Amulet of Physical Resolve (PHB)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 2,400 gp

Discussion:
Righteous Smite provides the whole party with a nice cushion of THPs every fight. You also buy the Acrobat Boots for a neat benefit at this level, standing up from prone as a minor action.



Lv. 4


Changes:
+7 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Charisma (19), +1 Wisdom (15)
New Feat: Improved Defenses (E:HFL)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 3,200):
L3 (680 gp): +1 Meliorating Plate (AV)
L3 (680 gp): +1 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L2 (520 gp): +1 Amulet of Physical Resolve (PHB)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
L1 (360 gp): +1 Magic Holy Symbol (PHB)
TOTAL: 2,760 gp

Discussion:
You pick up Improved Defenses to cover those NADs. This feat will scale with tiers, which is awesome. Charisma and Wisdom increase by a point each here, too.

You also pick up a Magic Holy Symbol, since you can.



Lv. 5


Changes:
+6 HP
New Daily Attack Power: Name of Might (PHB)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 4,480):
L3 (680 gp): +1 Meliorating Plate (AV)
L3 (680 gp): +1 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L2 (520 gp): +1 Amulet of Physical Resolve (PHB)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
L1 (360 gp): +1 Magic Holy Symbol (PHB)
TOTAL: 2,760 gp

Discussion:
You get the solid AoE Name of Might for some extra movement stickiness in one fight that it matters the most.



Lv. 6


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feat: Superior Will (E:HFL)
New Utility Power: Call of Challenge (PHB)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 6,400):
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L3 (680 gp): +1 Meliorating Plate (AV)
L2 (520 gp): +1 Amulet of Physical Resolve (PHB)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
L1 (360 gp): +1 Magic Holy Symbol (PHB)
TOTAL: 5,480 gp

Discussion:
Big level here. You dip back into the Lv. 2 pool and take Call of Challenge for a third mass-Sanction per encounter. Then you take Superior Will, because being dazed isn't fun, and its Will defense boost, a +1 net upgrade over Improved Defenses, will also scale with Tiers. Later on it'll also be a big asset against foes who stun. And, finally, you upgrade your weapon.



Lv. 7


Changes:
+6 HP
New Encounter Attack Power: Price of Cowardice (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 9,600 GP):
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Meliorating Layered Plate (AV)
L2 (520 gp): +1 Amulet of Physical Resolve (PHB)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
L1 (360 gp): +1 Magic Holy Symbol (PHB)
TOTAL: 8,200 gp

Discussion:
You take the most excellent Price of Cowardice for your second per-encounter punishment stacker. And you upgrade your armor.



Lv. 8


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Ability Score Boosts: +1 Charisma (20), +1 Wisdom (16)
New Feat: Versatile Expertise (Heavy Blade, Holy Symbol) (PHB3)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 12,800):
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Meliorating Layered Plate (AV)
L7 (2,600 gp): +2 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
L1 (360 gp): +1 Magic Holy Symbol (PHB)
TOTAL: 10,280 gp

Discussion:
Hitting is awesome. And you get a nice boost to it thanks to a Charisma bump to the next modifier, as well as Versatile Expertise for both your heavy blade and your holy symbol. You also upgrade your Wisdom and your neck item.



Lv. 9


Changes:
+6 HP
New Daily Attack Power: Ray of Reprisal (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 16,000):
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Meliorating Layered Plate (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L7 (2,600 gp): +2 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 15,120 gp

Discussion:
Another big level here. You pick up the Symbol of the Champion's Code for a boost to all your Sanctions (and, yes, your Divine Challenge), and also because, conveniently, your symbol could stand to use an enhancement upgrade. You also take the Iron Armbands here for some extra melee damage.

Your daily power here is yet another punishment stacker that also happens to cut an enemy's damage in half.



Lv. 10


Changes:
+5 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feat: Battle Awareness (MP)
New Utility Power: Guiding Verse (DP)
New Trained Skill: Intimidate

Magic Items (Expected GP = 22,400):
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Meliorating Layered Plate (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L7 (2,600 gp): +2 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 15,120 gp

Discussion:
Big level here as you take Battle Awareness, the Fighter multiclass entry feat. Right now its most significant benefit is adding another punishment stacker to your arsenal (which you can even use against enemies who shift away from you). It will pay even bigger dividends later. Your new utility power, Guiding Verse, is a very nice save power that becomes more valuable when you pick up a certain feat in Paragon Tier. No new items here; save up for the Paragon Tier shopping spree.



Lv. 11 snapshot


Race: Dragonborn (PHB)
Class: Paladin (PHB)
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Lay on Hands
Theme: Guardian (D 399)
Paragon Path: Questing Knight (DP)

Ability Scores, with racial adjustments:
Strength 14 (+2)
Constitution 17 (+3)
Dexterity 11 (+0)
Intelligence 9 (-1)
Wisdom 17 (+3)
Charisma 21 (+5)

HP: 92 --> 15 base, +17 Constitution, +60 levels
Bloodied: 46 HP or less
Healing Surges: 13 --> 10 base, +3 Constitution
Healing Surge Value: 26 HP --> 23 base, +3 Constitution

AC: 28 --> 10 base, +5 levels, +9 armor, +2 enhancement, +2 heavy shield
Fortitude: 24 --> 10 base, +3 ability (Constitution), +5 levels, +3 enhancement, +2 feat, +1 class
Reflex: 23 --> 10 base, +0 ability (Dexterity), +5 levels, +3 enhancement, +2 feat, +1 class, +2 heavy shield
Will: 27 --> 10 base, +5 ability (Charisma), +5 levels, +3 enhancement, +3 feat, +1 class

Initiative: +9 --> +0 ability (Dexterity), +5 levels, +4 Improved Initiative

Speed: 5 --> 6 base, -1 armor

At-Will Attack Powers:
L1 - Enfeebling Strike (PHB)
L1 - Virtuous Strike (DP)

Encounter Attack Powers:
L1 - Valorous Smite (DP)
L3 - Righteous Smite (PHB)
L7 - Price of Cowardice (DP)
L11 - Strength of Ten (DP)

Daily Attack Powers:
L1 - Majestic Halo (DP)
L5 - Name of Might (DP)
L9 - Ray of Reprisal (DP)

Utility Powers:
L2 - Virtue (DP)
L6 - Call of Challenge (DP)
L10 - Guiding Verse (DP)

Skills:
Religion (+9) --> -1 ability (Intelligence), +5 trained, +5 levels
Diplomacy (+15) --> +5 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +5 levels
Insight (+15) --> +3 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +5 levels, +2 Truth Sense
Heal (+13) --> +3 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +5 levels
Intimidate (+17) --> +5 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +5 levels, +2 racial

Feats:
L1 - Draconic Challenge (DP)
L2 - Improved Initiative (PHB)
L4 - Improved Defenses (E:HFL)
L6 - Superior Will (E:HFL)
L8 - Versatile Expertise (Heavy Blade, Holy Symbol) (PHB3)
L10 - Battle Awareness (MP)
L11 - Honored Foe (DP)

Changes:
+7 HP
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Strength (14), +1 Constitution (16), +1 Dexterity (13), +1 Intelligence (9), +1 Wisdom (16), +1 Charisma (21)
New Encounter Attack Power: Strength of Ten (DP)
New Feat: Honored Foe (DP)
New Paragon Path: Questing Knight (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 32,000):
L12 (13,000 gp): +3 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Inescapable Longsword (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Meliorating Layered Plate (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 25,520 gp

Discussion:
Big level as you enter your paragon path. Its encounter power, Strength of Ten, aside from being a sexy AoE attack with free repositioning, is yet another -- you guessed it -- mass-Sanction. That brings your count up to four, which is likely all you'll ever need. Truth Sense's most important benefit is a +2 to Will against keywords that make up a lot of the anti-Will attacks you're going to face, which is awesome.

Your Constitution and Wisdom both automatically move up to the next modifier, just in time for a much-needed upgrade to survivability. You address that with the feat Honored Foe, which will see a ton of use considering how many mass-Sanctions you have. Here, you also upgrade your neck item to keep your NADs from falling too far behind.



Lv. 12


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feat: Psychic Lock (PHB)
New Utility Power: Quester's Discipline (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 48,000):
L14 (21,000 gp): +3 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L12 (13,000 gp): +3 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Meliorating Layered Plate (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 43,120 gp

Discussion:
Enter the Githyanki Silver Sword and Psychic Lock combination to debuff the attacks of everyone you hit by an additional -2. This helps both sides of the Defender equation, too, whether a marked enemy attacks you or an ally. Two powers, in particular, love this treatment. One is your paragon path's mass-Sanctioning weapon-based AoE Strength of Ten, which can afflict multiple foes each with -2 to attack you and -4 to attack your allies. The second power is, of course, Enfeebling Strike, which now inflicts on a marked enemy a total of -4 to hit you and -6 to hit your allies.

Here, you also get the Questing Knight's utility, which is a handy get-out-of-jail card once per day.



Lv. 13


Changes:
+6 HP
New Encounter Attack Power: Castigating Strike (DP) (replaces Valorous Smite)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 64,000):
L14 (21,000 gp): +3 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Meliorating Gith Plate (AV)
L12 (13,000 gp): +3 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): +2 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 56,720 gp

Discussion:
Your power upgrade here is simply 2[W] extra on the very first mass-Sanction encounter power you took. And you upgrade your armor.



Lv. 14


Changes:
+7 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Charisma (22), +1 Constitution (18)
New Feat: Virtuous Recovery (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 80,000):
L14 (21,000 gp): +3 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Meliorating Gith Plate (AV)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L12 (13,000 gp): +3 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
L2 (520 gp): Acrobat Boots (PHB)
TOTAL: 75,320 gp

Discussion:
Your Charisma and Constitution go up to the next modifier. Your CON, in particular, is now where it needs to be to qualify for some needed feats in Epic Tier. You take Virtuous Recovery for some nice damage reduction when you spend a surge, and you also get a Diamond Cincture to bump your Fortitude up another point. And you also upgrade your symbol.



Lv. 15


Changes:
+6 HP
New Daily Attack Power: True Nemesis (PHB) (replaces Name of Might)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 112,000):
L14 (21,000 gp): +3 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Meliorating Gith Plate (AV)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L12 (13,000 gp): +3 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 85,800 gp

Discussion:
You pick up a potent daily power here in True Nemesis, which lets you punishment stack against a solo all encounter long. You also pick up some odds and ends, such as the Backlash Tattoo to punish an enemy who bloodies you in every encounter, as well as some nice upgrades to Reflex and Will with the Boots of Quickness and Circlet of Indomitability.



Lv. 16


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feat: Hero's Poise (D 388)
New Utility Power: Divine Aegis (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 160,000):
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L14 (21,000 gp): +3 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L12 (13,000 gp): +3 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 153,800 gp

Discussion:
Huge level here. You get the lovely Knight's Resurgence from your paragon path at this level, which is free-action second wind when bloodied. As if in anticipation of that, you pick up your armor upgrade, which is a switch to Heartening armor to give you a healthy amount of THPs whenever you second wind. Also, since your Charisma is high, time to put it to even better use with Hero's Poise, which grants all allies within 5 squares of you your Charisma mod to saves as long as you made a save yourself. Things like the Steadfast Amulet and Guiding Verse are great support for that feat, too.

Your utility at this level is the excellent defensive boost Divine Aegis, whose bonuses stack with everything because they're untyped.



Lv. 17


Changes:
+6 HP
New Encounter Attack Power: Wrathful Smite (DP) (replaces Righteous Smite)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 240,000):
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L17 (65,000 gp): +4 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L14 (21,000 gp): +3 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 205,800 gp

Discussion:
You pick up Wrathful Smite, a close burst with your weapon against Reflex that debuffs by -2 the attacks of enemies you hit with it. Sort of like a deadly-accurate crowd control version of Enfeebling Strike which serves as a great follow-up to one of your mass-Sanctions for serious penalties all around (especially since you have a Githyanki Silver Sword and Psychic Lock). Here you also upgrade your neck item.



Lv. 18


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Charisma (23), +1 Wisdom (18)
New Feat: Weapon Focus (Heavy Blade) (PHB)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 320,000):
L19 (105,000 gp): +4 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L17 (65,000 gp): +4 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L13 (17,000 gp): +3 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 289,800 gp

Discussion:
Here you take Weapon Focus, finally. You don't want to neglect the damage part of your life. Your Charisma increases by 1 to prepare for Epic Tier, your Wisdom goes up to the next modifier, and you also upgrade your weapon.



Lv. 19


Changes:
+6 HP
New Daily Attack Power: Corona of Blinding Radiance (PHB) (replaces Majestic Halo)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 400,000):
L19 (105,000 gp): +4 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L17 (65,000 gp): +4 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
L6 (1,800 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 357,800 gp

Discussion:
A symbol upgrade, and an excellent new daily crowd-control power in the blinding, accurate Corona of Blinding Radiance. You give up Majestic Halo for it since you already have enough mass-Sanctioning for every encounter.



Lv. 20


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Daily Attack Power: Virtuous Wrath (DP)
New Feat: Shield Mastery (PHB3)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 560,000):
L19 (105,000 gp): +4 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L17 (65,000 gp): +4 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 401,000 gp

Discussion:
You pick up Shield Mastery for a boost to your Fortitude and upgrade your Iron Armbands. Pretty quiet level otherwise. You gain your paragon path's daily, which is decent but usually not a gamebreaker.



Lv. 21 snapshot


Race: Dragonborn (PHB)
Class: Paladin (PHB)
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Lay on Hands
Theme: Guardian (D 399)
Paragon Path: Questing Knight (DP)
Epic Destiny: Legendary Sovereign (MP2)

Ability Scores, with racial adjustments:
Strength 15 (+2)
Constitution 19 (+4)
Dexterity 12 (+1)
Intelligence 10 (+0)
Wisdom 19 (+4)
Charisma 26 (+8)

HP: 154 --> 15 base, +19 Constitution, +120 levels
Bloodied: 76 HP or less
Healing Surges: 14 --> 10 base, +4 Constitution
Healing Surge Value: 42 HP --> 38 base, +4 Constitution

AC: 37 --> 10 base, +10 levels, +11 armor, +4 enhancement, +2 heavy shield
Fortitude: 36 --> 10 base, +4 ability (Constitution), +10 levels, +5 enhancement, +1 class, +3 feat, +2 heavy shield, +1 Diamond Cincture
Reflex: 33 --> 10 base, +1 ability (Dexterity), +10 levels, +5 enhancement, +1 class, +3 feat, +2 heavy shield, +1 Boots of Quickness
Will: 39 --> 10 base, +8 ability (Charisma), +10 levels, +5 enhancement, +1 class, +4 feat, +1 Circlet of Indomitability

Initiative: +19 --> +1 ability (Dexterity), +10 levels, +8 Superior Initiative

Speed: 5 --> 6 base, -1 armor

At-Will Attack Powers:
L1 - Enfeebling Strike (PHB)
L1 - Virtuous Strike (DP)

Encounter Attack Powers:
L7 - Price of Cowardice (DP)
L11 - Strength of Ten (DP)
L13 - Castigating Strike (DP)
L17 - Wrathful Smite (DP)

Daily Attack Powers:
L9 - Ray of Reprisal (DP)
L15 - True Nemesis (PHB)
L19 - Corona of Blinding Radiance (PHB)
L20 - Virtuous Wrath (DP)

Utility Powers:
L2 - Virtue (DP)
L6 - Call of Challenge (DP)
L10 - Guiding Verse (DP)
L12 - Quester's Discipline (DP)
L16 - Divine Aegis (DP)

Skills:
Religion (+15) --> +0 ability (Intelligence), +5 trained, +10 levels
Diplomacy (+23) --> +8 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +10 levels
Insight (+21) --> +4 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +10 levels, +2 Truth Sense
Heal (+19) --> +4 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +10 levels
Intimidate (+25) --> +8 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +10 levels, +2 racial

Feats:
L1 - Draconic Challenge (DP)
L4 - Improved Defenses (E:HFL)
L6 - Superior Will (E:HFL)
L8 - Versatile Expertise (Heavy Blade, Holy Symbol) (PHB3)
L10 - Battle Awareness (MP)
L11 - Honored Foe (DP)
L12 - Psychic Lock (PHB)
L14 - Virtuous Recovery (DP)
L16 - Hero's Poise (D 388)
L18 - Weapon Focus (Heavy Blade) (PHB)
L20 - Shield Mastery (PHB3)
L21 - Weakening Challenge (D 378)
L21 - Superior Initiative (PHB3)

Changes:
+7 HP
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Strength (15), +1 Constitution (18), +1 Dexterity (14), +1 Intelligence (10), +1 Wisdom (18), +3 Charisma (26)
New Epic Destiny: Legendary Sovereign (MP2)
New Feats: Weakening Challenge (D 378), Superior Initiative (PHB3) (retrained Improved Initiative)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 800,000):
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L19 (105,000 gp): +4 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 661,000 gp

Discussion:
Epic Tier starts off with a few nice developments. Your epic destiny gives you a huge boost to your attack stat at this level, and a nice per-encounter effect on a crit, to boot. Constitution and Wisdom also increase by a modifier. Your stickiness goes through the roof with Weakening Challenge, and you make sure you're afflicting enemies with Sanctions from the very start by retraining Improved Initiative for its Epic counterpart. And, finally, you upgrade your neck item.



Lv. 22


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feats: Draconic Restoration (PHR:D), Epic Fortitude (PHB2) (retrained Shield Mastery)
New Utility Power: Shared Valor (E:HFK)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 1,200,000):
L24 (525,000 gp): +5 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Heartening Warplate (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 1,081,000 gp

Discussion:
Draconic Restoration gives you another use of your Dragon Breath (and thus another mass-Sanction) when you second wind, which is a free action since you're a Questing Knight. That brings your mass-Sanction total up to five, which is almost overkill. You also retrain Shield Mastery into Epic Fortitude for a net +2 gain on Fortitude and upgrade your weapon. Finally, your utility is Shared Valor so that, for one fight a day, the whole party starts in the right positions with a nice THP buffer.



Lv. 23


Changes:
+6 HP
New Encounter Power: Demand Respect (DP) (replaces Castigating Strike)
New Feat: Strength Through Challenge (D 387) (retrained Virtuous Recovery)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 1,600,000):
L24 (525,000 gp): +5 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Heartening Legion Plate (AV)
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): +4 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L10 (5,000 gp): Diamond Cincture (heroic tier) (AV2)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 1,446,000 gp

Discussion:
In a somewhat unorthodox move, you retrain Castigating Strike to pick up the amazing punishment stacker Demand Respect. That drops your mass-Sanction count to four, for now, which is still plenty. And it increases your punishment stackers up to four per encounter. In addition, since you'll have multiple foes marked all the time, you'll want to retrain Virtuous Recovery for a more consistent source of damage resistance in Strength Through Challenge. And you also upgrade your armor here and pick up the Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor for some extra bite on your AoEs.



Lv. 24


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Charisma (27), +1 Constitution (20)
New Feat: Epic Recovery (MP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 2,100,000):
L24 (525,000 gp): +5 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Heartening Legion Plate (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Circlet of Indomitability (heroic tier) (AV)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 1,866,000 gp

Discussion:
Your Charisma and Constitution increase by 1. You also take the Martial feat Epic Recovery for two second winds every encounter. Because you have Draconic Restoration, this bumps your mass-Sanction count back up to 5/encounter. Can't hurt to be prepared, right? And finally, you upgrade your waist item to a Belt of Vim for another boost to Fortitude, as well as your symbol.



Lv. 25


Changes:
+6 HP
New Daily Attack Powers: Discipline the Unruly (DP) (replaces Ray of Reprisal)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 2,800,000):
L24 (525,000 gp): +5 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Heartening Legion Plate (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
L8 (3,400 gp): Boots of Quickness (heroic tier) (AV)
TOTAL: 2,612,600 gp

Discussion:
You pick up the incomparable Discipline the Unruly and also go on a bit of a shopping spree. Eye of Awareness bumps your Will up another point and also increases your initiative, which is really awesome. And Foe Caller Gauntlets give you another punishment stacker (that's 5/encounter, now, if you're keeping score).



Lv. 26


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feat: Divine Mastery (DP)
New Utility Power: Sword of the Sovereign (MP2)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 4,000,000):
L24 (525,000 gp): Boots of Caiphon (epic tier) (AV2)
L24 (525,000 gp): +5 Githyanki Silver Longsword (MOTP)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Heartening Legion Plate (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
TOTAL: 3,134,200 gp

Discussion:
You pick up Divine Mastery to recover an encounter power when you use an action point, which last I checked is pretty good. You get your ED's utility here, which is a great one to spring if you score a crit or a kill early in a fight. You also get the Boots of Caiphon for some extra Reflex and a great (albeit damaging to you) mobility option.



Lv. 27


Changes:
+6 HP
New Encounter Attack Power: Restricting Smite (PHB) (replaces Price of Cowardice)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 6,000,000):
L29 (2,625,000 gp): +6 Sorrowsong Longsword (E2 KotG)
L24 (525,000 gp): Boots of Caiphon (epic tier) (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Heartening Legion Plate (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): Siberys Shard of Radiance (epic tier) (EPG)
L22 (325,000 gp): +5 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
TOTAL: 5,659,200 gp

Discussion:
First, you retrain your lowest-level punishment stacker into Restricting Smite, which gives you a shutdown option for an AoE- or multiattack-happy solo or elite. This makes you a bit more well rounded.

Another important development is your final weapon upgrade to a Sorrowsong Blade, which permanently makes half your damage Psychic (and damage types = keywords now). This is sexy because not only can you take advantage of Psychic Lock, but you can take advantage of any other damage types associated with your weapon attacks now on top of that, something you couldn't do before with the Githyanki Silver Sword. And, right on cue, you also get the Siberys Shard of Radiance to power up the several Radiant attacks you have in your arsenal. That includes Virtuous Strike, which you use as an MBA, which you use for two of your punishment stackers and one of your self-defense strikes ... get the picture?



Lv. 28


Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and attacks
Ability Score Boosts: +1 Charisma (28), +1 Wisdom (20)
New Feat: Protecting Boon (DP)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 8,000,000):
L29 (2,625,000 gp): +6 Sorrowsong Longsword (E2 KotG)
L27 (1,625,000 gp): +6 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L24 (525,000 gp): Boots of Caiphon (epic tier) (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Heartening Legion Plate (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): Siberys Shard of Radiance (epic tier) (EPG)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
TOTAL: 6,959,200 gp

Discussion:
You take Protecting Boon to make your Divine Mettle work on everybody, which is awesome. You also get your final stat boosts and your final neck item upgrade.



Lv. 29


Changes:
+6 HP
New Daily Power: Even Hand of Justice (PHB) (replaces True Nemesis)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 10,000,000):
L29 (2,625,000 gp): +6 Sorrowsong Longsword (E2 KotG)
L28 (2,125,000 gp): +6 Heartening Godplate (AV)
L27 (1,625,000 gp): +6 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L24 (525,000 gp): Boots of Caiphon (epic tier) (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): +5 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): Siberys Shard of Radiance (epic tier) (EPG)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L16 (45,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
TOTAL: 8,659,200 gp

Discussion:
You pick up your capstone daily, the solid deterrent Even Hand of Justice, and your last armor upgrade.



Lv. 30 snapshot


Race: Dragonborn (PHB)
Class: Paladin (PHB)
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Lay on Hands
Theme: Guardian (D 399) 
Paragon Path: Questing Knight (DP)
Epic Destiny: Legendary Sovereign (MP2)

Ability Scores, with racial adjustments:
Strength 15 (+2)
Constitution 20 (+5)
Dexterity 12 (+1)
Intelligence 10 (+0)
Wisdom 20 (+5)
Charisma 28 (+9)

HP: 209 --> 15 base, +20 Constitution, +174 levels
Bloodied: 104 HP or less
Healing Surges: 15 --> 10 base, +5 Constitution
Healing Surge Value: 57 HP --> 52 base, +5 Constitution

AC: 47 --> 10 base, +10 levels, +11 armor, +4 enhancement, +2 heavy shield
Fortitude: 46 --> 10 base, +5 ability (Constitution), +15 levels, +6 enhancement, +1 class, +3 feat, +4 Epic, +2 Belt of Vim
Reflex: 44 --> 10 base, +1 ability (Dexterity), +15 levels, +6 enhancement, +1 class, +3 feat, +4 Epic, +2 heavy shield, +2 Boots of Caiphon
Will: 47 --> 10 base, +9 ability (Charisma), +15 levels, +6 enhancement, +1 class, +4 feat, +2 Eye of Awareness

Initiative: +29 --> +1 ability (Dexterity), +15 levels, +8 Superior Initiative, +5 Eye of Awareness

Speed: 5 --> 6 base, -1 armor

At-Will Attack Powers:
L1 - Enfeebling Strike (PHB)
L1 - Virtuous Strike (DP)

Encounter Attack Powers:
L11 - Strength of Ten (DP)
L17 - Wrathful Smite (DP)
L23 - Demand Respect (DP)
L27 - Restricting Smite (PHB)

Daily Attack Powers:
L19 - Corona of Blinding Radiance (PHB)
L20 - Virtuous Wrath (DP)
L25 - Discipline the Unruly (DP)
L29 - Even Hand of Justice (PHB)

Utility Powers:
L2 - Virtue (DP)
L6 - Call of Challenge (DP)
L10 - Guiding Verse (DP)
L12 - Quester's Discipline (DP)
L16 - Divine Aegis (DP)
L22 - Shared Valor (E:HFK)
L26 - Sword of the Sovereign (MP2)

Skills:
Religion (+20) --> +0 ability (Intelligence), +5 trained, +15 levels
Diplomacy (+29) --> +9 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +15 levels
Insight (+27) --> +5 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +15 levels, +2 Truth Sense
Heal (+25) --> +5 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +15 levels
Intimidate (+31) --> +9 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +15 levels, +2 racial

Feats:
L1 - Draconic Challenge (DP)
L4 - Improved Defenses (E:HFL)
L6 - Superior Will (E:HFL)
L8 - Versatile Expertise (Heavy Blade, Holy Symbol) (PHB3)
L10 - Battle Awareness (MP)
L11 - Honored Foe (DP)
L12 - Psychic Lock (PHB)
L16 - Hero's Poise (D 388)
L18 - Weapon Focus (Heavy Blade) (PHB)
L21 - Weakening Challenge (D 378)
L21 - Superior Initiative (PHB3)
L22 - Draconic Restoration (PHR:D)
L22 - Epic Fortitude (PHB2)
L24 - Epic Recovery (MP)
L26 - Divine Mastery (DP)
L28 - Protecting Boon (DP)
L30 - Epic Reflexes (PHB2)
L30 - Martial Resolve (MP)

Changes:
+6 HP
+1 to attacks, defenses, and checks
New Feats: Epic Reflexes (PHB2), Martial Resolve (MP) (retrained Strength Through Challenge)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 14,625,000):
L29 (2,625,000 gp): +6 Sorrowsong Longsword (E2 KotG)
L29 (2,625,000 gp): Ring of Free Time (epic tier) (AV2)
L28 (2,125,000 gp): +6 Heartening Godplate (AV)
L28 (2,125,000 gp): +6 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L27 (1,625,000 gp): +6 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L26 (1,125,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (epic tier) (AV)
L24 (525,000 gp): Boots of Caiphon (epic tier) (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): Siberys Shard of Radiance (epic tier) (EPG)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
TOTAL: 14,064,200 gp

Discussion:
Go on your shopping spree, including your final symbol upgrade, Iron Armbands upgrade and the Ring of Free Time. That last one grants permanent resist 5 all, letting you retrain out of Strength Through Challenge for Martial Resolve, another great saves feat that covers a few conditions that Superior Will didn't cover, and it too plays nice with Hero's Poise.

As for your Sword of Kings power, while it's very tempting to go with Strength of Ten, the fact of the matter is you already have all the mass-Sanctions per encounter you'll probably need. So, instead, go with Wrathful Smite for constant access to an AoE attack debuff and penalty stacker.

And that's it. Demogorgon better bring a few friends, for his own sake.




Build Goal and Tactics


This Dragonborn Chaladin does a little bit of everything. Actually, make that a lot of everything. But most of all, mass-Sanctioning for practically a whole encounter. He starts his career with two mass-Sanctions, gets three by mid-Heroic, four by Paragon Tier and five in Epic (and he could easily get more if he wanted to, but that's overkill). Once the mass-Sanctioning is taken care of, he's free to fill out, and does he ever fill out. Multiple punishment stackers per encounter, both melee and ranged. Multiple self-defense counterstrikes per encounter. Additional attack penalties from all his weapon strikes thanks to Psychic Lock, which are even more intense if he uses Enfeebling Strike and Wrathful Smite. Massive save bonuses for the whole party from Hero's Poise. And even a few emergency heals from Lay on Hands for good measure.

Moreover, he can take the abuse that inevitably comes his way as a result of his massive lockdown potential. Two free-action second winds, Virtue, Honored Foe, Virtuous Recovery, high defenses, and even those Lay on Hands all combine to help him stay upright. And forget about attacking this guy's Will defense, especially with Charm, Fear and Illusion attacks.

The Inexhaustible Dragon Sovereign has a high initiative to beat enemies to the punch far more often than not. He'll stroll into the thick of an enemy formation, use one of his many mass-Sanctions and then strike to inflict further penalties to the enemy's attacks, both against him and his allies.

Questions, thoughts and comments are, of course, welcome.

Lv. 30 Character Builder snapshot


====== Created Using Wizards of the Coast D&D Character Builder ======
inexhaustible dragon sovereign, level 30
Dragonborn, Paladin, Questing Knight, Legendary Sovereign
Build: Virtuous Paladin
Versatile Expertise: Versatile Expertise (Heavy Blade)
Versatile Expertise: Versatile Expertise (Holy Symbol)
Dragonborn: Dragon Breath
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Sword of Kings: Wrathful Smite

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 15, Con 20, Dex 12, Int 10, Wis 20, Cha 28.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 13, Con 14, Dex 10, Int 8, Wis 14, Cha 16.


AC: 47 Fort: 46 Reflex: 44 Will: 47
HP: 209 Surges: 15 Surge Value: 57

TRAINED SKILLS
Religion +20, Diplomacy +29, Insight +27, Heal +25, Intimidate +31

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Acrobatics +13, Arcana +15, Bluff +24, Dungeoneering +20, Endurance +16, History +17, Nature +20, Perception +20, Stealth +12, Streetwise +24, Thievery +12, Athletics +13

FEATS
Level 1: Draconic Challenge
Level 2: Improved Initiative (retrained to Superior Initiative at Level 21)
Level 4: Improved Defenses
Level 6: Superior Will
Level 8: Versatile Expertise
Level 10: Battle Awareness
Level 11: Honored Foe
Level 12: Psychic Lock
Level 14: Virtuous Recovery (retrained to Strength Through Challenge at Level 23)
Level 16: Hero's Poise
Level 18: Weapon Focus (Heavy Blade)
Level 20: Shield Mastery (retrained to Epic Fortitude at Level 22)
Level 21: Weakening Challenge
Level 22: Draconic Restoration
Level 24: Epic Recovery
Level 26: Divine Mastery
Level 28: Protecting Boon
Level 30: Epic Reflexes

POWERS
Lay on Hands: Lay on Hands
Paladin at-will 1: Enfeebling Strike
Paladin at-will 1: Virtuous Strike
Paladin encounter 1: Valorous Smite
Paladin daily 1: Majestic Halo
Paladin utility 2: Virtue
Paladin encounter 3: Righteous Smite
Paladin daily 5: Name of Might
Paladin utility 6: Call of Challenge
Paladin encounter 7: Price of Cowardice
Paladin daily 9: Ray of Reprisal
Paladin utility 10: Guiding Verse
Paladin encounter 13: Castigating Strike (replaces Valorous Smite)
Paladin daily 15: True Nemesis (replaces Name of Might)
Paladin utility 16: Divine Aegis
Paladin encounter 17: Wrathful Smite (replaces Righteous Smite)
Paladin daily 19: Corona of Blinding Radiance (replaces Majestic Halo)
Paladin utility 22: Shared Valor
Paladin encounter 23: Demand Respect (replaces Castigating Strike)
Paladin daily 25: Discipline the Unruly (replaces Ray of Reprisal)
Paladin encounter 27: Restricting Smite (replaces Price of Cowardice)
Paladin daily 29: Even Hand of Justice (replaces True Nemesis)

ITEMS
Sorrowsong Blade Longsword +6, Heartening Godplate Armor +6, Symbol of the Champion's Code +6, Heavy Shield, Iron Armbands of Power (epic tier), Eye of Awareness (epic tier), Ring of Free Time (epic tier), Belt of Vim (paragon tier), Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier), Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier), Amulet of Physical Resolve +6, Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier), Boots of Caiphon (epic tier), Siberys Shard of Radiance (epic tier)
====== Copy to Clipboard and Press the Import Button on the Summary Tab ======

Keeping Them On Notice



Here's a breakdown of the abilities the Inexhaustible Dragon Sovereign uses over any given encounter to keep enemies locked onto him.

Lv. 1


Divine Challenge/Sanction: 7 radiant damage

Mass-Sanctions per encounter:
1) Dragon Breath (via Draconic Challenge): Close blast 3, minor action
On hit or miss, all enemies in blast subject to DS until start of your next turn.
2) Valorous Smite: +7 vs. AC, melee weapon, standard action
On hit all enemies within 3 squares of you subject to DS until end of your next turn.

Attack penalty stacking:
1) Enfeebling Strike: At-will, +7 vs. AC, melee, weapon, standard action
On hit enemy who is marked takes -2 penalty to attack rolls until end of your next turn.

Punishment stacking per encounter:
1) Guardian's Counter -> Virtuous Strike: +7 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, ally within 2 squares of you is attacked, you're not a target of that attack. Swap positions with your ally and become the target of the attack.
Hit: 1d8+4 radiant damage
Crit: 12 radiant damage



Lv. 11


Divine Challenge/Sanction: 13 radiant damage

Mass-Sanctions per encounter:
1) Dragon Breath (via Draconic Challenge): Close blast 3, minor action
On hit or miss, all enemies in blast subject to DS until start of your next turn.
2) Valorous Smite: +16 vs. AC, melee, weapon, standard action
On hit all enemies within 3 squares of you subject to DS until end of your next turn.
3) Call of Challenge: Close burst 3, minor action
All enemies in burst subject to DS until end of your next turn.
4) Strength of Ten: +16 vs. Fortitude, close blast 3, weapon, standard action
Any enemy hit pushed up to 3 squares and subject to DS until start of your next turn, you may shift to any square in blast hit or miss.

Attack penalty stacking:
1) Enfeebling Strike: At-will, +16 vs. AC, melee, weapon, standard action
On hit enemy who is marked takes -2 penalty to attack rolls until end of your next turn.

Punishment stacking per encounter:
1) Price of Cowardice: +13 vs. Will, close burst 5, implement, immediate interrupt, marked enemy makes attack that doesn't include you as target
Hit: 2d10+7 radiant damage, and blinded until end of your next turn.
Crit: 2d6+27 radiant damage, and blinded until end of your next turn.
2) Guardian's Counter -> Virtuous Strike: +16 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, ally within 2 squares of you is attacked, you're not a target of that attack. Swap positions with your ally and become the target of the attack.
Hit: 1d8+9 radiant damage
Crit: 2d6+17 radiant damage
3) Battle Awareness -> Virtuous Strike: +16 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, enemy adjacent to you shifts or makes attack that doesn't include you as target
Hit: 1d8+9 radiant damage
Crit: 2d6+17 radiant damage



Lv. 21


Divine Challenge/Sanction: 21 radiant damage, and the triggering enemy is weakened on the attack

Mass-Sanctions per encounter:
1) Dragon Breath (via Draconic Challenge): Close blast 3, minor action
On hit or miss, all enemies in blast subject to DS until start of your next turn.
2) Call of Challenge: Close burst 3, minor action
All enemies in burst subject to DS until end of your next turn.
3) Strength of Ten: +27 vs. Fortitude, close blast 3, weapon, standard action
Any enemy hit pushed up to 3 squares and subject to DS until start of your next turn, you may shift to any square in blast hit or miss.
4) Castigating Strike: +27 vs. AC, melee weapon, standard action
On hit all enemies within 3 squares of you subject to DS until end of your next turn.

Attack penalty stacking:
1) Psychic Lock: Whenever an enemy is hit with a weapon attack, it takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
2) Enfeebling Strike: At-will, +27 vs. AC, melee, weapon, standard action
On hit enemy who is marked takes -2 penalty to attack rolls until end of your next turn.
3) Wrathful Smite: Encounter, +27 vs. Reflex, close burst 1, weapon, standard action
On hit enemy takes -2 penalty to attack rolls until end of your next turn.

Punishment stacking per encounter:
1) Price of Cowardice: +24 vs. Will, close burst 5, implement, immediate interrupt, marked enemy makes attack that doesn't include you as target
Hit: 2d10+12 radiant damage, and blinded until end of your next turn.
Crit: 4d6+32 radiant damage, and blinded until end of your next turn.
2) Guardian's Counter -> Virtuous Strike: +27 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, ally within 2 squares of you is attacked, you're not a target of that attack. Swap positions with your ally and become the target of the attack.
Hit: 2d8+19 psychic damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
Crit: 4d8+35 psychic damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
3) Battle Awareness -> Virtuous Strike: +27 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, enemy adjacent to you shifts or makes attack that doesn't include you as target
Hit: 2d8+19 psychic damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
Crit: 4d8+35 psychic damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.



Lv. 30


Divine Challenge/Sanction: 24 radiant damage, and the triggering enemy is weakened on the attack

Mass-Sanctions per encounter:
1) Dragon Breath (via Draconic Challenge): Close blast 3, minor action
On hit or miss, all enemies in blast subject to DS until start of your next turn.
2) Call of Challenge: Close burst 3, minor action
All enemies in burst subject to DS until end of your next turn.
3) Strength of Ten: +36 vs. Fortitude, close blast 3, weapon, standard action
Any enemy hit pushed up to 3 squares and subject to DS until start of your next turn, you may shift to any square in blast hit or miss.
4) Dragon Breath, renewed after second wind #1.
5) Dragon Breath, renewed after second wind #2.

Attack penalty stacking:
1) Psychic Lock: Whenever an enemy is hit with a weapon attack, it takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
2) Enfeebling Strike: At-will, +36 vs. AC, melee, weapon, standard action
On hit enemy who is marked takes -2 penalty to attack rolls until end of your next turn.
3) Wrathful Smite: Encounter, not expended unless it misses all targets, +36 vs. Reflex, close burst 1, weapon, standard action
On hit enemy takes -2 penalty to attack rolls until end of your next turn.

Punishment stacking per encounter:
1) Guardian's Counter -> Virtuous Strike: +36 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, ally within 2 squares of you is attacked, you're not a target of that attack. Swap positions with your ally and become the target of the attack.
Hit: 2d8+29 psychic and radiant damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
Crit: 6d8+45 psychic and radiant damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
2) Battle Awareness -> Virtuous Strike: +36 vs. AC, melee, weapon, immediate interrupt, enemy adjacent to you shifts or makes attack that doesn't include you as target
Hit: 2d8+29 psychic and radiant damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
Crit: 6d8+45 psychic and radiant damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
3) Demand Respect: +33 vs. Will, close burst 10, implement, immediate interrupt, enemy makes attack that doesn't include you as target
Hit: 2d10+18 radiant damage, knocked prone and blinded until end of your next turn.
Crit: 6d6+38 radiant damage, knocked prone and blinded until end of your next turn.
4) Foe Caller Gauntlets: Immediate interrupt, marked enemy within 10 squares makes attack that does not include you as a target
Teleport triggering enemy to space adjacent to you and attack with Virtuous Strike, +36 vs. AC.
Hit: 2d8+29 psychic and radiant damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.
Crit: 6d8+45 psychic and radiant damage, and the enemy takes a -2 penalty to its next attack roll.




reserved for something

Variants



I. Dragon-Riding Sovereign

If you actually want to take to a mount (which does indeed become a silver dragon in Epic Tier), you'll have to make some sacrifices. This variant doesn't take the Virtue power, instead taking Call Celestial Steed at Lv. 6. Three feats are crucial to success as a mounted Paladin: Improved Steed, Mounted Combat and Holy Steed. The feats you give up in return are Weapon Focus, the Virtuous Recovery/Strength Through Challenge/Martial Resolve progression, and Psychic Lock. So while this variant's attack debuffs aren't quite as brutal, and you hit for a little less damage, you're still on a really powerful level-scaling mount. Your defenses and hit points are still the same as the foot solider original, and the silver dragon will have your defenses +4, total (AC 51, F 50, R 49, W 51) and Lv. 21 Impenetrable Barding, so the dragon will be a tough nut to crack and generally a hindrance to your foes all around. Since you don't have Psychic Lock, you wield a Bradaman's Weapon to have a double DC on hand.

Lv. 30 snapshot


Race: Dragonborn (PHB)
Class: Paladin (PHB)
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Lay on Hands
Paragon Path: Questing Knight (DP)
Epic Destiny: Legendary Sovereign (MP2)

Ability Scores, with racial adjustments:
Strength 15 (+2)
Constitution 20 (+5)
Dexterity 14 (+2)
Intelligence 10 (+0)
Wisdom 18 (+4)
Charisma 28 (+9)

HP: 209 --> 15 base, +20 Constitution, +174 levels
Bloodied: 104 HP or less
Healing Surges: 15 --> 10 base, +5 Constitution
Healing Surge Value: 57 HP --> 52 base, +5 Constitution

AC: 47 --> 10 base, +10 levels, +11 armor, +4 enhancement, +2 heavy shield
Fortitude: 46 --> 10 base, +5 ability (Constitution), +15 levels, +6 enhancement, +1 class, +3 feat, +4 Epic, +2 Belt of Vim
Reflex: 45 --> 10 base, +2 ability (Dexterity), +15 levels, +6 enhancement, +1 class, +3 feat, +4 Epic, +2 heavy shield, +2 Boots of Caiphon
Will: 47 --> 10 base, +9 ability (Charisma), +15 levels, +6 enhancement, +1 class, +4 feat, +2 Eye of Awareness

Initiative: +30 --> +2 ability (Dexterity), +15 levels, +8 Superior Initiative, +5 Eye of Awareness

Speed: 5 --> 6 base, -1 armor

At-Will Attack Powers:
L1 - Enfeebling Strike (PHB)
L1 - Virtuous Strike (DP)

Encounter Attack Powers:
L11 - Strength of Ten (DP)
L17 - Wrathful Smite (DP)
L23 - Demand Respect (DP)
L27 - Deific Vengeance (PHB)

Daily Attack Powers:
L19 - Corona of Blinding Radiance (PHB)
L20 - Virtuous Wrath (DP)
L25 - Discipline the Unruly (DP)
L29 - Even Hand of Justice (PHB)

Utility Powers:
L2 - Call of Challenge (DP)
L6 - Call Celestial Steed (D 393)
L10 - Guiding Verse (DP)
L12 - Quester's Discipline (DP)
L16 - Divine Aegis (DP)
L22 - Shared Valor (E:HFK)
L26 - Sword of the Sovereign (MP2)

Skills:
Religion (+20) --> +0 ability (Intelligence), +5 trained, +15 levels
Diplomacy (+29) --> +9 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +15 levels
Insight (+26) --> +4 ability (Wisdom), +5 trained, +15 levels, +2 Truth Sense
Endurance (+21) --> +5 ability (Constitution), +5 trained, +15 levels, -2 plate, -2 heavy shield
Intimidate (+31) --> +9 ability (Charisma), +5 trained, +15 levels, +2 racial

Feats:
L1 - Draconic Challenge (DP)
L4 - Improved Defenses (E:HFL)
L8 - Mounted Combat (PHB)
L10 - Versatile Expertise (Heavy Blade, Holy Symbol) (PHB3)
L11 - Honored Foe (DP)
L12 - Superior Will (E:HFL)
L14 - Holy Steed (D 388)
L16 - Hero's Poise (D 388)
L18 - Battle Awareness (MP)
L21 - Weakening Challenge (D 378)
L21 - Improved Steed (Silver Dragon) (D 393)
L22 - Draconic Restoration (PHR:D)
L22 - Superior Initiative (PHB3)
L23 - Epic Fortitude (PHB2)
L24 - Epic Recovery (MP)
L26 - Divine Mastery (DP)
L28 - Protecting Boon (DP)
L30 - Epic Reflexes (PHB2)

Magic Items (Expected GP = 14,625,000):
L29 (2,625,000 gp): Ring of Free Time (epic tier) (AV2)
L28 (2,125,000 gp): +6 Bradaman's Longsword (AV2)
L28 (2,125,000 gp): +6 Heartening Godplate (AV)
L28 (2,125,000 gp): +6 Symbol of the Champion's Code (AV2)
L27 (1,625,000 gp): +6 Amulet of Physical Resolve (AV)
L26 (1,125,000 gp): Iron Armbands of Power (epic tier) (AV)
L24 (525,000 gp): Boots of Caiphon (epic tier) (AV2)
L23 (425,000 gp): Eye of Awareness (epic tier) (AV)
L23 (425,000 gp): Siberys Shard of Radiance (epic tier) (EPG)
L22 (325,000 gp): Foe Caller Gauntlets (epic tier) (D 381)
L21 (225,000 gp): Impenetrable Barding (epic tier) (AV)
L18 (85,000 gp): Belt of Vim (paragon tier) (AV)
L15 (25,000 gp): Ring of the Dragonborn Emperor (paragon tier) (AV)
L9 (4,200 gp): Backlash Tattoo (heroic tier) (AV2)
TOTAL: 13,789,200 gp


Since you are multiclassing into fighter anyway, can you pick up martial resolve? It's always nice to make saving throws against stunned, dazed, slow, etc. at the start of your turn. Keeps you up!
It's a feat I wanted to get in (especially since I do have Hero's Poise), but I'm not sure what I'd give up or shuffle around. Maybe Epic Will, since even a 45 at Lv. 30 isn't bad.

I'll think about it.

EDIT: Or, actually, Protecting Boon. Yeah, I'll go ahead and take Martial Resolve in place of Protecting Boon.
Love it. I have a Half-Elf version using Hospitalier, built much along the same lines. For Sword of the Sovereign, I find Sublime Transposition to the best choice -- why? Because its primary target is a Willing Ally, so you will never, ever miss both targets.

For Dilettante, I actually chose Furious Smash. While ordinarily a trap for warlords, with my CHA 30, WIS 22, Adept Dilettante and Cruel Cut, my hit chances aren't too shabby (37 vs Fort) and offer one of my allies a big spike for their next attack (+10 attack, +10 damage, 6 ongoing damage) while simultaneously maintaining my DC.

I'll definitely go through and make some changes to it, especially since I didn't focus nearly so much on mass-sanctioning, and probably should.
Meh, that's kinda iffy on Sublime Transposition and Sword of Kings.

Anyway, I made more changes. I actually restored Protecting Boon, and retrained Toughness for Martial Resolve to get that a bit earlier.
added to the Ultimate Defenders.
I only see 2 second winds available.  Is this multiple?  Or did i miss something that gave you more
 
Multiple can technically mean anything greater than one, but I just changed the description to two.
Great work, Litigation! I love the Questing Knight PP, finally a nice build based on it.

Chauntea/Lathander/Torm Cleric since 1995 My husband married a DM - καλὸς καὶ ἀγαθός

IMAGE(http://www.nodiatis.com/pub/14.jpg)

Litigation, any chance you could also post the level 30 Character Builder summary? I always prefer to look at builds through that when I can.
Level 6 is showing you picking up Intimidate as a new skill but I'm assuming that is leftover from thinking of taking the fighter MC at 6 instead of waiting until 10th?
Litigation, any chance you could also post the level 30 Character Builder summary? I always prefer to look at builds through that when I can.



Level 6 is showing you picking up Intimidate as a new skill but I'm assuming that is leftover from thinking of taking the fighter MC at 6 instead of waiting until 10th?


Done (at the end of the first post), and fixed.
This build has been added to The Hall of Heroes thread.
Currently playing the level 2 version of this build, though for some reason, you have 3/3/2 magic items, so I went with a Challenge-Seeking Longsword for my 3/2/1 setup. Also grabbed a heavy shield for the AC buff.

Absolutely amazing build!
RIP George! 4-21-11 RIP Abie! 1-2-13
Funny Forum Quotes
[quote author=82733368 post=532127449]
58115148 wrote:
"You notice a large piece of mold clinging to your toothbrush. What do you do?" "I cast Fireball." "I run like hell!
63797881 wrote:
The standard d4 is somewhat (SOMEWHAT) rounded on the top, the older models are even flat. The Lego is shaped in such a way that in an emergency, you can use one as a makeshift surgical knife.
147742801 wrote:
57457938 wrote:
My wife asked me if her pants made her look fat. What do you think I said?
Wife: Do these pants make me look fat? RedSiegfried: I just killed a bunch of orc women and children.
63797881 wrote:
82733368 wrote:
28.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character (Monk or otherwise) does not require my character to be completely shitfaced, no matter what the name (and fun interpretation) implies.
29.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character does not require ME to be completely tanked, no matter how "in-character" I want to be..
Hey Litigation, any other tips, tactics, or suggestions on things to pull off the build in its full potential?

I'm seriously liking the build, and the playtest went awesome for our first encounter last night. I was untouched for about 2/3 of the fight, and even when I did get pounded on by som big kruthiks that got me stuck in a grab, I never dropped below half health.

I really think a Challenge-Seeking Longsword is a good level 2 item for a 3/2/1 magic item starter like me, it adds insult to injury when I get to be the first one to hit the big guys.


**EDIT** Here's the level 2 version I'm playing, with the addition of a battle standard that I picked up from the encounter we were in last night.

Ghesh, level 2
Dragonborn, Paladin
Build: Virtuous Paladin
Dragonborn Racial Power: Dragon Breath
Dragon Breath Key Ability: Dragon Breath Constitution
Dragon Breath Damage Type: Dragon Breath Cold
Background: Champion of Bahamut (+2 to Intimidate)

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 13, Con 14, Dex 12, Int 8, Wis 14, Cha 18.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 11, Con 14, Dex 12, Int 8, Wis 14, Cha 16.


AC: 22 Fort: 15 Reflex: 16 Will: 17
HP: 35 Surges: 12 Surge Value: 10

TRAINED SKILLS
Religion +5, Intimidate +14, Insight +8, Diplomacy +10

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Acrobatics -2, Arcana, Bluff +5, Dungeoneering +3, Endurance -1, Heal +3, History +2, Nature +3, Perception +3, Stealth -2, Streetwise +5, Thievery -2, Athletics -2

FEATS
Level 1: Draconic Challenge
Level 2: Improved Initiative

POWERS
Lay on Hands: Lay on Hands
Paladin at-will 1: Virtuous Strike
Paladin at-will 1: Enfeebling Strike
Paladin encounter 1: Valorous Smite
Paladin daily 1: Majestic Halo
Paladin utility 2: Virtue

ITEMS
Meliorating Plate Armor +1, Amulet of Physical Resolve +1, Challenge-Seeking Longsword +1, Heavy Shield, Adventurer's Kit, Holy Symbol, Battle Standard of Might (heroic tier)
RIP George! 4-21-11 RIP Abie! 1-2-13
Funny Forum Quotes
[quote author=82733368 post=532127449]
58115148 wrote:
"You notice a large piece of mold clinging to your toothbrush. What do you do?" "I cast Fireball." "I run like hell!
63797881 wrote:
The standard d4 is somewhat (SOMEWHAT) rounded on the top, the older models are even flat. The Lego is shaped in such a way that in an emergency, you can use one as a makeshift surgical knife.
147742801 wrote:
57457938 wrote:
My wife asked me if her pants made her look fat. What do you think I said?
Wife: Do these pants make me look fat? RedSiegfried: I just killed a bunch of orc women and children.
63797881 wrote:
82733368 wrote:
28.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character (Monk or otherwise) does not require my character to be completely shitfaced, no matter what the name (and fun interpretation) implies.
29.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character does not require ME to be completely tanked, no matter how "in-character" I want to be..
Being that I took a Shield for extra defense, is it worth upgrading it or should I keep in mundane? If it's upgradable/affordable, what enhancements would you recommend?
RIP George! 4-21-11 RIP Abie! 1-2-13
Funny Forum Quotes
[quote author=82733368 post=532127449]
58115148 wrote:
"You notice a large piece of mold clinging to your toothbrush. What do you do?" "I cast Fireball." "I run like hell!
63797881 wrote:
The standard d4 is somewhat (SOMEWHAT) rounded on the top, the older models are even flat. The Lego is shaped in such a way that in an emergency, you can use one as a makeshift surgical knife.
147742801 wrote:
57457938 wrote:
My wife asked me if her pants made her look fat. What do you think I said?
Wife: Do these pants make me look fat? RedSiegfried: I just killed a bunch of orc women and children.
63797881 wrote:
82733368 wrote:
28.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character (Monk or otherwise) does not require my character to be completely shitfaced, no matter what the name (and fun interpretation) implies.
29.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character does not require ME to be completely tanked, no matter how "in-character" I want to be..
*Bump* I know it's 2hrs short of the 24hr 'customary-bump-wait-time' period, but I'd really like to get some input on this build, and the addition of the shield like I chose, seeing as we'll probably be playing again tonight. Thanks!
RIP George! 4-21-11 RIP Abie! 1-2-13
Funny Forum Quotes
[quote author=82733368 post=532127449]
58115148 wrote:
"You notice a large piece of mold clinging to your toothbrush. What do you do?" "I cast Fireball." "I run like hell!
63797881 wrote:
The standard d4 is somewhat (SOMEWHAT) rounded on the top, the older models are even flat. The Lego is shaped in such a way that in an emergency, you can use one as a makeshift surgical knife.
147742801 wrote:
57457938 wrote:
My wife asked me if her pants made her look fat. What do you think I said?
Wife: Do these pants make me look fat? RedSiegfried: I just killed a bunch of orc women and children.
63797881 wrote:
82733368 wrote:
28.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character (Monk or otherwise) does not require my character to be completely shitfaced, no matter what the name (and fun interpretation) implies.
29.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character does not require ME to be completely tanked, no matter how "in-character" I want to be..
*Bump* I know it's 2hrs short of the 24hr 'customary-bump-wait-time' period, but I'd really like to get some input on this build, and the addition of the shield like I chose, seeing as we'll probably be playing again tonight. Thanks!


Magical shields are generally not recommended, since they take up your Arms slot and prevent you from using something like the Iron Armbands.

Wheras if you use a nonmagical, mundane shield you can still use a magical Arms slot item.
*Bump* I know it's 2hrs short of the 24hr 'customary-bump-wait-time' period, but I'd really like to get some input on this build, and the addition of the shield like I chose, seeing as we'll probably be playing again tonight. Thanks!


Magical shields are generally not recommended, since they take up your Arms slot and prevent you from using something like the Iron Armbands.

Wheras if you use a nonmagical, mundane shield you can still use a magical Arms slot item.



Seriously? Hmm, didn't know that. Thanks for the heads up!
RIP George! 4-21-11 RIP Abie! 1-2-13
Funny Forum Quotes
[quote author=82733368 post=532127449]
58115148 wrote:
"You notice a large piece of mold clinging to your toothbrush. What do you do?" "I cast Fireball." "I run like hell!
63797881 wrote:
The standard d4 is somewhat (SOMEWHAT) rounded on the top, the older models are even flat. The Lego is shaped in such a way that in an emergency, you can use one as a makeshift surgical knife.
147742801 wrote:
57457938 wrote:
My wife asked me if her pants made her look fat. What do you think I said?
Wife: Do these pants make me look fat? RedSiegfried: I just killed a bunch of orc women and children.
63797881 wrote:
82733368 wrote:
28.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character (Monk or otherwise) does not require my character to be completely shitfaced, no matter what the name (and fun interpretation) implies.
29.) Making a "Drunken Master" style character does not require ME to be completely tanked, no matter how "in-character" I want to be..
Hrm, with the new Dragonborn giving +2 Con as option, and Improved Defenses at a +1 to all NADs total over the old NAD feats, have you considered getting Wis higher up ? I always found it comperatively low, considering it governs +resist (on surge), +tHP (vs marked foes), Lay on Hands and some other riders.
It would nuke Battle Awareness (annoying but I think replacable) and Protecting Boon (sweet feat, but L28 pick), which is annoying but not crippling. Or slashing Con would mean a bit less Fort (most NAD riders there are pushes and such, so you can get over that) and a surge less or two, but that can be compensated by a Ring of Tenecious Will or even Durable if need to.

I know it would incure some redo at high Epic, but I don't think most campaigns get so far and at lower levels more Wis is very sweet.
Love it.  Starting a new group in the Chaos Scar, and rolling up a new character "Killtooth", based on this build.  Never thought I would want to play a paladin, but this concept is fantastic, and I had already wanted to play a dragonborn willing to do anything to rebuild Arkhosia. 

Great fit, can't wait to play him.  I'll post some updates with some in-game experiences.
Found time to attend to this build a little bit. Obviously, I had to find ways to fit in Improved Defenses and Superior Will as early as possible. And the Lv. 22 power changed into something a lot better (thank you, Essentials).
I'm a long time D&D player, but new to 4e. I'm going to play this pretty much as written, starting at 3rd lvl.  So thanks for updating the obsoleted feats. It's going to be nice to be able to concentrate on the game play, and not the build.
Added a mounted variant.
Im a little lost on the Improved defenses + superior NAD in the build.... They don't stack right?
They don't stack, but the relevant part of Superior Will is the ability to save against daze and stun at the start of your turn, even when that daze or stun wasn't a save-ends effect.
Missed it by 2 weeks.
My group isn't allowed to use Essentials until the "Upgraded" Character Builder is upgraded.
What non-Essentials feats did you have in there before you changed it?
Viva La "what ever version of D&D you are playing right now!"
Toughness, Virtuous Recovery and Paragon/Robust Defenses, I believe.
I'm planning on taking all of the defense feats I can get my hands on, so Im skipping the Imp defenses and going straight to superior xxx.  I've got the con/dex/cha to qualify for all 3 (dex is for the agile armor later on). 

Also had a question about level 6 or 7, says +11 HP.  Was there toughness in there and it was removed or something?

Found this through the link in Litigation's signature. Very nice.

My only quibble is that I think Honored Foe is less useful than Virtuous Recovery, as you're going to start each fight with a mass tHP buffer from Virtue anyway.

I've been playing a nearly identical character, from 1st level to (currently) 14th, and I can say that it is highly effective. The combination of mass sanctioning and being incredibly tough is great. Unless you're the DM. Heh.

I'm currently playing a build very similar to this in a Dark Sun campaign (my back-story led the DM to suggest that I play a Dragonborn Pally... we're working with a different source for the "divine" power).

For theme, the obvious choice was Gladiator.

I've been debating switching out Dragon Breath for Dragonfear to free up a couple feats, and still impose a "mark-like" penalty to a larger area.  I would lose out on the punishment, but it would effect more targets.  I just wish that the feats that worked with "Dragon Breath" would work for "Dragonborn racial power" instead... so that it could be recharged/used with Draconic Challenge/etc...

Any thoughts on using the Gladiator Champion PP instead of Questing Knight? 
I actually think that Dragonfear might be better than Dragon Breath here and here is my reasoning:


  • Dragonfear is a burst 5 (burst 10 at Lv21) and compared to Dragon Breath's blast 3 can potentially hit more enemies in one go.

  • Dragonfear uses Charisma, your highest stat, for the attack and attacks Will which might be better depending on who is being hit. Also only hit enemies so you teammates won't have to worry about being in the cross-fire.

  • Dragonfear has a lot of the same feat support this build uses for Dragon Breath. Draconic Guardian is the same as Draconic Challenge except it only marks those it hits and Dragon's Rejuvination is Dragonfear's Draconic Restoration that it is available at Paragon!


So with this, do you think Dragonfear is at the very least a possibility? Either way I believe that Dragonfear at least deserves some kind of variant.
You can't punish Dragonfear's marks, though, and the feat support for Divine Sanction wouldn't apply, either.

Also, while Dragon Breath Sanctions even on a miss, Dragonfear has to hit to mark. And since Dragonfear still uses the old, inaccurate +2/4/6 attack scaling, it's not something you can rely on past Heroic.
You can't punish Dragonfear's marks, though, and the feat support for Divine Sanction wouldn't apply, either.

Also, while Dragon Breath Sanctions even on a miss, Dragonfear has to hit to mark. And since Dragonfear still uses the old, inaccurate +2/4/6 attack scaling, it's not something you can rely on past Heroic.


How does the Dragonfear's marks not work with Divine Challange? It's your mark so divine challenge should work against it. Am I missing something? Also  with the feat support the only one I see is Weakening challange which also works divine challange.
No, the zap only occurs explicitly on Divine Challenge and Divine Sanction. Paladins can't punish generic marks.

Also, Weakening Challenge alone is a pretty big reason the Divine Sanctions are better. Divine Challenge only works on one foe at a time unless you have a Bradaman's Weapon, which only the mounted variant has. And even then it's only 2 enemies.
Litigation, your bard handbook helped immensely with the formation of Fansy, the fancy pansy.  He owes you one.

Anyways, this looks like a very fun build, and I was interested in playing the Mounted variant.  However, from both the Character Builder and the Compendium, it seems as if Call Celestial Steed is a feature unique to the Cavalier.  I cannot choose it as a utility in the Builder.

Am I missing something?
Yeah, you're missing that the Compendium and the CB have been riddled with errors. The version of the power, the one that is freely selectable by all Paladins, being a Paladin Utility 4, in the Dragon 393 compilation is still the official one.
If you really think you have enough Mass Sanctions.... have you looked at Dragon Fear instead?
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