teccam - THE SKY FORGE2024-03-28T19:43:25Zhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/feed/tag/teccamCharacter Build: The Dancer of the Two Moonshttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-dancer-of-the-two-moons2018-03-13T22:36:10.000Z2018-03-13T22:36:10.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">This build is intended to be played with a small suite of essential gameplay enhancing mods.</span> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">Most</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">of these are available on PC (both LE and SE) as well as XBox 1 - sorry, PS4 and legacy console players. These mods allow for vastly more interesting character builds and more exciting, rewarding combat. Please see <a href="https://theskyforge.ning.com/groups/modding/forum/simple-baseline-gameplay-mod-suite-for-skyrim-le" target="_blank">the list / guide here</a></span><span style="font-weight:500;"> for full details. Additionally, this build should be played with <a href="https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/21120/" target="_blank">Heavy Armory</a></span><span style="font-weight:500;">, a mod which adds the quarterstaves this character ideally employs in combat to complement his flaws.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">This was a truly fun character to play and write. We sincerely hope anyone who is able to download the necessary mods is willing to give it a shot -- we are confident you will not be disappointed! Thank you for reading, and enjoy.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/13966731?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/13966731?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" alt="13966731?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="550" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">A collaboration between Mr. C. N. Dying & Teccam</span></em></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158935626,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158935626,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158935626?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="764" height="436" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">For centuries, the greatest martial artists of Tamriel have hailed from the temples of Elsweyr, where Khajiit monks train for decades to hone their bodies, minds, and spirits. The greatest among them are capable of sensing blows before they even begin, and facing hordes of foes single-handed. Their grace and poise are unparalleled, turning combat into a lethal, beautiful art.</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">When word of the Dragon Threat reached them, the temples dispatched their greatest prodigy to serve the moon gods and help end the danger. This is his story...</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">-</span></em></p>
<p><strong>Race:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Khajiit - Imperious Races is a race overhaul mod that seeks to breathe new life into Skyrim’s playable races by adding new and unique abilities to each. The natural athletic agility of the Khajiit race is emphasized, and they receive a substantial boost to movement speed which synergizes well with unarmed damage perks found in Ordinator.</span></p>
<ul><li style="font-weight:500;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">Feline Agility:</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">Move faster and also sprint faster at the cost of more stamina</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:500;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">Prowl:</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">Sneak silently and perform a power leap whenever you jump while sneaking</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:500;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">Rawlith Khaj:</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">Claw attacks deal bonus damage based on total stamina</span></li>
</ul><p><strong>Stone:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">The Shadow - Aurora does for standing stones what the Imperious mod does for the playable races. Each standing stone has been dramatically overhauled with unique and powerful active and passive effects. We won't be using the active ability Shadow Step with this build, but the passive movement speed synergizes perfectly with the unarmed damage perks within Ordinator.</span></p>
<ul><li style="font-weight:500;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">Blur:</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">Increases movement speed while in combat</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:500;"><em><span style="font-weight:500;">Shadow Step:</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">At will, use the power of shadow stones to teleport behind a target a short distance away</span></li>
</ul><p><strong>Attributes:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">1</span> <span style="font-weight:500;"><span style="color:#000080;">M</span></span> <span style="font-weight:500;">/ 2</span> <span style="font-weight:500;"><span style="color:#800000;">H</span></span> <span style="font-weight:500;">/ 1 <span style="color:#008000;">S</span>. Cap Stamina at 200 and Magicka at 150 points and invest all points afterward into Health. (You may choose to instead prioritize stamina over health if you instead value lethality over survivability. In this case cap Magicka at 150, Health at 250, and invest everything into Stamina/, or find a middle ground that works for you!)</span></p>
<p><strong>Skills:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Light Armor, Alteration, Two-handed, Block, Alchemy</span></p>
<p><strong>Equipment:</strong></p>
<ul><li style="font-weight:500;"><span style="font-weight:500;">Your choice of quarterstaff (consider keeping a silver one for use against undead foes)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:500;"><span style="font-weight:500;">Your claws</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:500;"><span style="font-weight:500;">Light armor of choice -- see our recommended mods below</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:500;"><span style="font-weight:500;">Jewelry: Ring and Pendant of Fortify Health and/or Stamina (Optional: Amulet of Talos)</span></li>
</ul><p><strong>Shouts:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Slow Time, Dragonrend</span></p>
<p><strong>Spells:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Flesh spells</span></p>
<p><strong>Alignment:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Neutral Good</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;">-</p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>- Lore -</strong></span></p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158756013,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158756013?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="764" height="299" /></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">Throughout recorded history nearly all races have adopted one form of martial arts or another, however martial arts hold an especially prominent place within khajiit culture. The relatively foreign appearance and behavior of the khajiit people have oft made them the targets of fear, discrimination and far worse. Kidnappings, enslavement, persecution, and numerous invasions upon their homeland have inspired the khajiit to take a deadly serious interest in self defense.</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Many unique forms of martial arts have emerged from the great temples of Elsweyr: The Goutfang Style, the Whispering Fang, and the Rawlith Khaj are some of the most renowned disciplines, although precious little is known of these styles outside of Elsweyr. Whatever the discipline, their practitioners are trained to move like water and strike like the wind, with razor sharp claws honed through years of training into lethal weapons.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">A Khajiit’s chosen discipline and status are often reflected in the prefixes adopted in their names. These prefixes act as formal titles as well as badges of honor. It is common for esteemed warriors to adopt the prefix ‘Do’, meaning “warrior”. Such a prestigious title is reserved exclusively for the likes of master martial artists and the Mane’s personal guard. The Dancer of the Two Moons, however, is a unique title once granted to a great prodigy skilled in the ways of Rawlith Khaj and the Bo Jutsu style. The monk wielded both his staff and claws in perfect harmonious dance the elders liken to the moons themselves dancing among the stars.</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>- Gameplay -</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}416419094,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}416419094,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="416419094?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em> <span style="font-weight:500;">Well versed was the monk in the history and ways of his people, as were all khajiit who lived and trained within the temples. His kind had endured centuries of derision, distrust and slavery at the hands of the other races of man and mer. Reasonable it was then for the monk to question the task passed down to him by the temple elders. Foolish it was in his mind to aid those who did not see fit to allow khajiit within their walls. Nevertheless the monk journeyed to Skyrim, remembering the words of wisdom of his elders: “Foolish is Khajiit who does nothing as his neighbor suffers, for trouble can walk and will surely find Khajiit next.”</span></em></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-weight:500;">At the core of this build is Ordinator, an ambitious perk overhaul mod that scraps boring vanilla perks entirely and replaces them with over 400 unique perks. Overall the Dancer of the Two Moons levels at a fairly decent pace. Block as well as your primary attack skills, Two-handed and Light Armor, by way of unarmed damage perks, comprise the bulk of your skills and are in constant use. Alchemy may lag behind depending on your taste for crafting skills. Consider using an alchemy trainer to keep pace with your combat skills.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;">-</p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158793380,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158793380,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158793380?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="138" /></a>Light Armor</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- For those new to Ordinator, you may be surprised to find that our main offensive skill tree is Light Armor. With Ordinator, light armor offers other benefits such as increased movement speed, evasion, and unarmed damage. Within the light armor tree are all the unarmed perks that enable the Dancer of the Two Moons to deal some</span> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">very</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">heavy unarmed critical damage.</span></p>
<p><strong>Key Perks:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Sweeping Wind, Rushing Tide, War Dancer, Breaking Waves, Tempting Fate</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Among the key perks, the most critical is Sweeping Wind, which causes unarmed attacks to deal 2% more damage for every 1% movement speed gained. Thanks to the Imperious Races and Aurora Standing Stones mods, this character comes with a significant movement speed bonus right from the start. Wind Runner grants an additional 10% movement speed on top of that just for wearing all light armor. Rushing Tide causes every unarmed attack to further increase movement speed by 5%.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Tempting Fate takes things further and adds an additional 20% movement speed whenever you successfully dodge a power attack without attempting to block. Lastly we have War Dancer and Breaking Waves. The former will cause unarmed strikes to deal 20% more critical damage provided you do not sustain damage from any unblocked source in battle. Breaking Waves will make ALL attacks automatic critical hits so long as War Dancer is active.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-weight:500;">-</span></p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158791390,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158791390,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158791390?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="138" /></a>Two-handed</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- The Two-handed tree acts as the secondary offensive skill tree and also works in tandem with the Block skill tree to provide the bulk of the Dancer’s defensive needs. The weapon of choice will be quarterstaves, which are much like warhammers but significantly faster (and weaker, for balance).</span></p>
<p><strong>Key Perks:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Avalanche, The Pendulum</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">The Two-handed tree is not being perked predominantly for offensive damage potential, but rather for two key perks, Avalanche and Pendulum, which offer unique means of disrupting enemies. What makes this skill tree so dangerous in the hands of the Dancer is how quickly one can chain together power attacks with a quarterstaff.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Avalanche activates whenever a forward power attack is executed. If it connects, it will cause an enemy to stagger almost to the point of falling over completely whenever they take unblocked damage from any source. This even includes unarmed attacks. The Pendulum will cause all but the most massive creatures hit by two opposite sideways power attacks within ten seconds to be completely knocked off their feet and scattered. The perfect way to thin the herd when fighting a large group, as getting knocked over by the pendulum will take enemies out of the fight for several seconds.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-weight:500;">-</span></p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158789253,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158789253,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158789253?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="138" /></a>Block</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- The defensive half of the Dancer's quarterstaff use, this tree is used primarily for the timed blocking perks which reward the Dancer for his reflexes and awareness of enemies."</span></p>
<p><strong>Key Perks:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Timed Block (2/2), Timing Streak, Deliverance, Break Their Teeth, Dragon Scales, Quick Reflexes</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Between Two-handed and Block, your staff is essentially more of a shield than a weapon. Block takes the disruptive options offered by the key two handed perks even further with massive bonuses to be gained from skillful timed blocking. </span><span style="font-weight:500;">With that being said, the most essential perk of all the key block perks is Timed Blocking. The way it works is whenever an enemy attacks you while blocking within one second of raising your defenses, that triggers a timed block. Doing this will mitigate more damage than a standard block, and stagger your attacker. Three successful timed blocks in a row trigger bonus effects</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Timing Streak will restore 75 stamina. Deliverance grants you 10% attack damage for 90 seconds which will stack if you can continuously perform trios of timed blocks within 90 seconds. Break Their Teeth will stagger everybody within an 8 foot radius and violently disarm your last attacker. Last but not least, Dragon Scales will completely negate all damage taken during a timed block so long as you have stamina remaining.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Quick Reflexes works just the same as it does in vanilla Skyrim and is invaluable for dodging those heavy power attacks. Just as in vanilla Skyrim you can trigger Extended Slow Time if you use the Slow Time shout while Quick Reflexes is active. If you find yourself having difficulty engaging enemies unarmed, this will help tremendously.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-weight:500;">-</span></p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158784664,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158784664,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158784664?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="138" height="138" /></a>Alteration</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- Ordinator’s rendition of Alteration does not deviate much from the overall purpose of its vanilla counterpart (particularly for the Dancer’s purposes) - to provide utility and augmentations. While lightly perked in this build, Alteration provides some well needed bonuses to the build’s resistances and defense.</span></p>
<p><strong>Key Perks:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Alter Self: Fire & Frost Resistance, Alter Attributes: Health, Home Mythal</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">One thing that makes Alteration unique in Ordinator is that certain perks offer branching choices when selected. For the perk Alter Self we chose fire and frost resistance since those are the two most common elements you’ll likely run into when fighting enemy mages.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">For Alter Attributes the recommended choice is Health. As a lightly armored melee combatant Health will be key to your survival. Ample Health and the added boost from flesh spells will prevent stronger enemies from turning your first mistake into your last. But as stated before, if you prefer lethality over survivability, then choose Stamina instead.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Last but certainly not least is Home Mythal, a perk which grants up to 20-times Alteration spell durations whenever they are cast within the vicinity of the Mythal. You should hold off on taking that perk until you’ve settled on a suitable player home. The exact spot you’re standing on when you activate the perk becomes the permanent spot of your Home Mythal. So plan accordingly.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-weight:500;">-</span></p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158796308,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158796308,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158796308?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="138" /></a>Alchemy</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- Alchemy receives a considerable boost in Ordinator over its vanilla counterpart. With key perks unlocked, you gain not only the benefits of your concoctions but other additional stat boosts simply for imbibing a potion, many of which synergize well with potions within your repertoire</span></p>
<p><strong>Key Perks:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Stimulants, Advanced Lab, Crimson Haze, Physician: Stamina</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Stimulants will increase your Stamina Regen by 2% of your maximum Stamina per second for 30 seconds whenever you consume a potion. It's worth noting that this will stack with Stamina Regen effects from potions. Crimson Haze causes Stimulants to also increase your movement speed by 10% for 30 seconds. Since movement speed also determines your unarmed attack power, you're basically getting a free attack boost with every potion you drink.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Advanced Lab will boost the potency of your potions further, but only at the alchemy station you choose to turn into an ‘advanced lab’. For this reason you’ll want to be careful what location you choose. Our recommendation is to turn the alchemy lab within your player home of choice into an advanced lab. It makes sense to have your Home Mythal and Advanced Lab situated in the same home.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Last up is the Physician perk which offers three branching choices. We picked Stamina. Your attack power is largely predicated on how much current stamina you have. So it’s to your advantage to get the most out of your stamina replenishing potions regardless of whether you prioritized Health or Stamina in your stat distribution.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The following potions will best aid you in your travels:<br /><br /></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em><strong>Inner Balance</strong></em></span></p>
<p><strong>Ingredients:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Torchbug Thorax, Histcarp, Lavender</span></p>
<p><strong>Effects:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Fortify Stamina, Restore Stamina, Lingering Damage Magicka</span></p>
<p><strong>Argument:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Maximizing Stamina is crucial to ensuring your attacks continue to operate effectively, and that your blocks properly mitigate inbound damage. This is a fairly cheap and simple recipe that you can use often to ensure your Stamina is always charged. The Lingering Damage Magicka effect can be bypassed with other recipes, but as Magicka is really only needed when casting Ebonyflesh from your Home Mythal origin, we can spare the Magicka in normal combat.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <span style="font-size:12pt;"><em><strong>Grace of Khenarthi</strong></em></span></p>
<p><strong>Ingredients: <span style="font-weight:500;">Blue Mountain Flower, Wheat</span></strong></p>
<p>Effects: <span style="font-weight:500;">Fortify Health, Restore Health</span></p>
<p>Argument: <span style="font-weight:500;">A simple and classic potion that is pretty much universally helpful on any alchemist, and no exception here. Also an easy option to trigger the Stimulants perk from Alchemy on command, as the ingredients are cheap and sustainable, and the Fortify effect is useful even at the start of a skirmish..</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <span style="font-size:12pt;"><em><strong>S'rendarr's Might</strong></em></span></p>
<p><strong>Ingredients: <span style="font-weight:500;">Bleeding Crown, Tundra Cotton</span></strong></p>
<p>Effects: <span style="font-weight:500;">Resist Magic, Fortify Block</span></p>
<p>Argument: <span style="font-weight:500;">The Dancer’s primary defensive tonic. Critical against mages, and also gives a nice buff to blocking physical attacks. Consider keeping a small stock of secondary elemental resistance potions as well, using Snowberries as a base to further provide Resist Frost and Resist Fire. Good for particularly powerful mages and dragons.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <span style="font-size:12pt;"><em><strong>Lunar Essence</strong></em></span></p>
<p><strong>Ingredients: <span style="font-weight:500;">Grass Pod, River Betty</span></strong></p>
<p>Effects: <span style="font-weight:500;">Fortify Alteration</span></p>
<p><strong>Argument:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">A simple potion, mainly for use when casting Ebonyflesh at your Home Mythal origin to significantly augment its duration.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;">-</p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong> - Fighting Styles -</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158803423,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158803423,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158803423?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="762" height="298" /></a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> S<em><span style="font-weight:500;">kyrim was a land under siege, desperate for aid. Dragons were very much real and posed a grave threat to more than just Skyrim. Little did the monk know, his destiny laid at the center stage of this turmoil...</span></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">As there are two moons in the sky, the Dancer of the Two Moons is a master of two distinct fighting styles.</span> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">Rawlith Khaj</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">is an aggressive hand to hand fighting style with tremendous damage potential in the hand of a master.</span> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">Bojutsu</span></em> <span style="font-weight:500;">is a stalwart defensive style utilizing a quarterstaff that favors a strong defense with the ability to keep enemies off balance.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;">-</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size:12pt;">Rawlith Khaj</span></strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- Fast, powerful strikes delivered with deadly precision, Rawlith Khaj is a deadly hand-to-hand fighting style that favors swift dodging and deadly counter attacks. As you dodge attacks and deliver blows of your own, your movement becomes even faster and your power attacks become more lethal, chaining together to make you exponentially quicker and stronger as your enemies tire.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Dodging is imperative. If you take unblocked damage of any kind, you lose your War Dancer buff for several seconds, severely reducing your unarmed damage. Conserve your Stamina and avoid attacking head-on. Let your opponents make the first move and leave themselves open. Each unarmed attack will increase your movement speed slightly, and dodging a power attack will increase your movement speed by 20% for the duration of combat. With heightened movement speed and high remaining Stamina, your power attacks will do much more damage, turning power attacks into devastating critical blows.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158976983,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158976983,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158976983?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="91" /></a></p>
<p><strong>One-Thousand Fold Fury</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- <em>Strike your opponent repeatedly, building momentum for a single devastating power attack. If you remain undamaged while building momentum, this power attack will be a lethal critical hit striking with the fury of a thousand claws.</em></span></p>
<p><strong>Requirements:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Slow Time, War Dancer, Breaking Waves, Sweeping Wind, Rushing Tide, Tempting Fate</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">This is the ultimate end result of all unarmed perks working in tandem. A single power attack easily capable of exceeding 600+ critical damage, but only if you build enough movement speed and stamina while keeping that war dancer buff active.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;">-</p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Bojutsu</strong></span> <span style="font-weight:500;">- The shield to the sword that is the Rawlith Khaj style. Quarterstaves, although weak, have a long reach and are quite fast, perfect for keeping enemies at a distance, creating openings, and disrupting and scattering the enemy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Masters of the Bojutsu style believe the path to victory lies in a strong and tactical defense. They prefer to time their blocks or use their quick reflexes to avoid attacks rather than simply stand ground and absorb damage. A timed block will deflect all of an enemy’s power and cause them to stagger while also replenishing your Stamina. A timed block streak will violently disarm an attacker as well as stun everyone around him, creating a massive opening.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Power attacks are invaluable with this style and each one can disrupt enemies in a unique way. Forward power attacks will daze their target, so much so that all unblocked attacks that follow for the next few seconds will cause heavy staggering, even with unarmed attacks. A sweep done twice in quick succession will sweep all enemies clear off their feet and toss them aside. An invaluable tactic for thinning the herd when faced against a group.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158945197,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158945197,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158945197?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="91" /></a>Harsh Lesson</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- <em>Teach your opponent the error of their ways with a hard knock over the head. This skull rattling blow will leave your opponent dazed for several seconds, causing them to stagger from any unblocked attack.</em></span></p>
<p><strong>Requirements:</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">Avalanche, Forward Power Attack, Basic Attacks</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">A simple yet powerful combination. A forward power attack with your quarterstaff will cause any unblocked follow up attacks for the next 8 seconds, including unarmed attacks, to send your enemy reeling. This is especially helpful because unarmed attacks aren't normally able to stagger enemies. Or you could continue to batter your opponents with light and fast strikes from your quarter staff, essentially stun locking your dazed opponent for several seconds. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14526959,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14526959,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14526959?profile=original" width="91" /></a></strong><span style="font-weight:500;"><strong>Lunar Balance </strong></span><span style="font-weight:500;">- <em>In the heat of battle you achieve an extended state of perfect mental clarity and perception whereby enemy attacks are much easier to anticipate and evade. </em></span></p>
<p><strong>Requirements:</strong> Quick Reflexes + Slow Time, Lunar Essence (optional)</p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">Trigger Quick Reflexes by dodging a power attack and immediately activate Slow Time. If succesful Slow Time will last far past its normal duration. Your combos become easier to perform and enemy attacks become much easier to evade. A vital technique against large enemy groups, exceptionally strong foes and other overwhelming odds. </span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-weight:500;">-</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O1SrXpNsfKs" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>- Mods - </strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}158811069,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}158811069,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="158811069?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="762" height="298" /></a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">Skyrim is at last at peace, and so the time has come for the monk to leave this land he has slowly come to cherish as dearly as his native sand...</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-weight:500;">As mentioned in the introduction, this build relies on</span> <span style="font-weight:500;">a core suite of gameplay expansions and overhauls</span><span style="font-weight:500;">. It is highly recommended that you use the entire suite in the link, however, the following are absolutely <strong>essential</strong> to unlock the full synergies the build relies upon:</span></p>
<ul><li><span style="font-weight:500;">Ordinator - Perks of Skyrim</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight:500;">Aurora - Standing Stones of Skyrim -OR- Andromeda Standing Stones of Skyrim</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight:500;">Imperious - Races of Skyrim</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight:500;">Heavy Armory</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight:500;">Mortal Enemies - De-aimbot your foes</span></li>
</ul><p> </p>
<p><strong>Additionally, we recommend the following mods to further enhance your playthrough:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Animated Armory - </strong>A neat mod suggested by SirrocTheSentinel which adds a number of new weapons types to the game with their own unique third person animations. Most notable of these additions are the new quarter staves. They share the same speed and damage as the staves added by Heavy Armory, but have unique animations befitting a skilled monk. </p>
<p><strong>Warmonger Armory</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- This mod adds a handful of excellently crafted armor sets to the game, available in leveled lists (i.e., worn by enemies, sold by vendors, etc.). They use entirely vanilla assets, meaning they all look and feel at home in Skyrim, and even pick up the textures from any armor/clothing texture mods you may have installed. For this character, the Sand Assassin Armor works very nicely.</span></p>
<p><strong>Ultimate Combat</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">(LE) -OR-</span> <strong>Smilodon Combat</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">(SE) - These mods take a similar approach to combat. Rather than bogging you down with micromanagement of wounds, or worrying about being vulnerable if your Stamina depletes, they focus more on keeping combat frenetic and on natural advantages caused by player/enemy movement.</span> <em><span style="font-weight:500;">Note: Ultimate Combat users should disable its Timed Block system and use Ordinator’s instead. Smilodon users should additionally install Combat Behavior Improved to get block canceling and better hitframes for attacks.</span></em></p>
<p><strong>Enhanced Skyrim Factions: The Companions Guild</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">(LE only) - As a warrior at heart, your character may feel very much at home within the halls of Jorrvaskr. Enhanced Skyrim Factions greatly expands the length and depth of the Companion quest and adds a plethora of new features such as the ability to spar with your fellow companions in challenging one-on-one duels, and allowing your character much more autonomy as they progress. ESF also allows you to progress through the Conpanion questline without having to become a werewolf.</span></p>
<p><strong>Khajiit Speak</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- Since this character is a Khajiit, he ought to talk like one! This mod overhauls all dialogue to be more fitting for a Khajiit, including taking into account the formality of each conversation and the relationship of the player character with each NPC. Highly recommended for any Khajiit playthrough.</span></p>
<p><strong>Jaxonz Renamer</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- A very nifty utility that allows you to rename just about any item in the game. Normally, this does not work for custom potions, but thanks to a clever workaround discovered by Avispon, it can in fact be done. Perfect for your stock of hotkeyed potions as listed previously in the build.</span></p>
<p><strong>Moonpaths of Elsweyr</strong> <span style="font-weight:500;">- Trouble has reared its ugly head back home in Elsweyr where the Thalmor are up to no good. This is a medium sized quest mod wherein you join forces with a ragtag group of khajiit resistance fighters on their mission to undermine the Thalmor.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><br /><em>Thank you for reading!</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p></div>Character Build: The Regulatorhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-regulator2017-10-15T01:09:05.000Z2017-10-15T01:09:05.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">The Internet has seen some attempts at making unarmed combat viable, and a few have even found success. This, however, was the <strong>first</strong> build out there (to my knowledge - originally posted several years ago) to do so <em>without the aid of looping and/or stacking exploits</em>. This build delivers unarmed combat that is not simply <em>viable</em>, but truly effective and engaging. I complement this with several other tactics, to deliver a dynamic, streamlined experience from start to finish.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">This would not have been possible without a TON of fantastic research and analysis by <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/profile/James376">James</a>. His efforts have been nothing short of phenomenal, and much of his work directly inspired this build.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366831,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366831,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="14366831?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:7px;">THE REGULATOR</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;"><em>Regulators are elite Khajiit guards of the sovereign city of Rimmen. Trained by veterans of the city’s gladiator team and masters from local Khajiiti temples, the Regulators are unparalleled in hand-to-hand combat, archery, and alchemy. Some say the most skilled Regulators possess traces of the legendary Voice of the Mane.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em><span style="font-family:helvetica;">After hearing reports of Skyrim’s Khajiit trade caravans siphoning large quantities of moon sugar from Rimmen’s sugarcane shipments, the city dispatches a master Regulator to investigate. And thus, our story begins….</span></em></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Race</strong></span> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Khajiit</span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Stone</strong></span> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» The Lord</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Major Skills</strong></span> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Alchemy, Archery</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Minor Skills</strong></span> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Conjuration, Heavy Armor, Block</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Attributes</strong></span> » <span style="font-family:helvetica;">2 <span style="color:#993300;">Health</span> / 1 <span style="color:#008000;">Stamina</span> / 0 <span style="color:#000080;">Magicka</span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Essential Shout</strong></span> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Marked for Death</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;"><strong style="color:#000000;font-size:13px;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366873,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366873,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="14366873?profile=original" /></a></strong></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Note that acquiring the Ring of the Beast will require you to side with the Volkihar. Cure your vampirism ASAP, as it is not a part of roleplay/gameplay!</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">If you'd rather focus on defense than offense, Ahzidal's Helmet is a fine alternative. I find most helms look rather silly on Khajiit characters, so I wore the circlet when I played on Xbox. On PC, I used the <a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/22765/?" target="_blank">Helmet Toggle</a> mod to gain the effects of Ahzidal's Helm without having to see it on my toon.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:6px;">THE BUILD</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Thanks to James’s research, this build brings several awesome new methods to the table, allowing a couple of normally weak/unorthodox play styles to shine.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">To get things started, Faendal can train you up to level 50 Archery for free. Grab the Gloves of the Pugilist next, and pick up a crossbow and steel bolts from Fort Dawnguard — that will serve you well until you can summon a Bound Bow. Grab a set of Ancient Nord armor from the ghost outside of Kjenstag Ruins any night, to get the right aesthetic prior to acquiring Ahzidal's set.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4UuFDhNbWKo?rel=0&wmode=opaque" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0"></iframe></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;">A STERLING ARCHER</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;" align="center"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">The <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Bound Bow</strong></em></span> is ideal for several reasons:</span></p>
<ul><li><span style="font-family:helvetica;text-indent:25px;">Being zero-weight, it affords quicker drawing and firing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:helvetica;text-indent:25px;">You never need to stockpile arrows.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:helvetica;text-indent:25px;">It has the highest base damage of any bow in the game.</span></li>
</ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">When you pick up the <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Ring of the Beast</strong></em></span>, grab the <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Ring of the Erudite</strong></em></span> as well: It will allow you to conjure the Bound Bow without investing attribute points in Magicka in the early game, before you pick up the Adept Conjuration perk. Once you obtain that perk, you can summon the bow with less than 100 Magicka, at which point you should abandon the Ring of the Erudite.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">At 100 Archery and with all relevant perks, the Bound Bow will do roughly <strong>125</strong> damage per shot. And for the sadists out there, this build has several means of taking that power even further — several <em>times</em> that much damage per shot!</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Bow <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>bashes</strong></em></span> can be quicker and more accurate than arrows in close quarters. Bashing induces stagger, giving you time to switch to unarmed or apply a poison. With Deadly Bash, the Mystic Bound Bow does a solid <strong>30</strong> bash damage. And as with archery, this value can be easily augmented several times over, such that a single bash can kill many lesser opponents.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;">UNARMED & DANGEROUS</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Allowing for variations in your choice of gauntlets, the Regulator has a respectable base Unarmed damage (mine was <strong>65</strong>, with Daedric gauntlets). But respectable isn't enough; we want our enemies to be pissing themselves with fear. Consequently, the Regulator's true badassery lies in the fact that this base unarmed value increases by nearly 6 points (9% × 65 = 5.85) for every <em>second</em> that Marked for Death is active! Furthermore, he can instantly <strong>double</strong> his unarmed damage — including that per second Marked for Death bonus — by drinking a simple potion: the custom brew <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>The Beast Within</strong></em></span>, described below.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">That +9% damage per second bonus, and the 2x damage potion multiplier, also apply to bashes and fired arrows, as explained below.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366877,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366877,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="630" alt="14366877?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;">POTENT POTABLES</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Through dedicated training in the noble sciences of herblore and alchemy, the Regulator is able to brew some truly incredible potions. </span><span style="font-family:helvetica;">All calculations listed below assume +66% Fortify Alchemy from worn gear. I suggest using Muiri’s Ring and any three items of Major Alchemy. If you don't want to join the Dark Brotherhood, the Ring of Pure Mixtures is your next best bet, along with one standard Alchemy item, one Major Alchemy item, and one Extreme Alchemy item.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The Beast Within</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://static4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061121160303/wowwiki/images/5/5e/Inv_potion_41.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://static4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061121160303/wowwiki/images/5/5e/Inv_potion_41.png?width=90" width="90" alt="Inv_potion_41.png?width=90" /></a><em>Effect</em></strong> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Double physical damage for 60 seconds (arrows, bashes, <em>and</em> claws)</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Requires</strong></em> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Canis Root & Juniper Berries</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Argument</strong></em> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» 2x damage from all arrows, bashes, and unarmed attacks. On top of all that, you can grow both ingredients in your Hearthfire home, allowing bulk harvesting quickly and easily. <em>Did someone say “synergy”?</em></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><strong>Tonic of Rimmen</strong></span> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://static3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061121154805/wowwiki/images/4/48/Inv_potion_97.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://static3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061121154805/wowwiki/images/4/48/Inv_potion_97.png?width=90" width="90" alt="Inv_potion_97.png?width=90" /></a><em>Effect</em></strong> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Fortify Health by 100 points for 60 seconds, Restore 156 Health</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Requires</strong></em> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» Blue Mountain Flower & Wheat</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Argument</strong></em> <span style="font-family:helvetica;">» This is a simple potion to make, but very useful, since the Regulator uses neither Smithing nor Enchanting to compensate for an average armor set. The Lord helps to mitigate some damage, but you’ll still need to heal sometimes.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;">ON YOUR MARK</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">By now, many blog members know that Marked for Death lowers enemy AR by 75 points <em>per second</em>. You may also be aware that this continues to have an effect into the negatives. But I think a lot of people <em>still</em> write off this Shout, thinking that it takes too long to show any “significant effect”.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Well, this is the wrong way to look at it. To quote James: “If there was a shout that made the base strength of your weapons increase by 5% every second … who here wouldn't use that all the time?” And that’s the <em>right</em> way of looking at Marked for Death. Because that’s essentially what it does — except it’s actually +9% per second!</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">If you are interested in learning more about Marked for Death, <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/glitches/forum/topics/an-argument-for-marked-for-death">check out this discussion by James</a> for a comprehensive breakdown of this Shout’s uses and how they apply to this build.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366798,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366798,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14366798?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><span class="font-size-1"><em>Level 35 perk spread. Click to embiggen.</em></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;">ROLEPLAYING NOTES</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366906,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" style="padding:2px;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366906,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="200" alt="14366906?profile=original" /></a>As your character develops, you simulate the training/development of a Regulator as he would have experienced back in Rimmen. Progression is fairly natural as you unlock better heavy gear. Ahzidal’s armor may not be the most powerful, but it’s solid enough, it looks awesome on the Regulator, and it has a useful effect.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Around town, it is best to avoid dealing with the local riffraff. Many Nords harbor distrust of Khajiit, and you are not in Skyrim to cause any disputes. It is probably best therefore to avoid the Civil War line. Instead, focus more on gathering intelligence on the Khajiit caravans, and on simply exploring Skyrim as you hone your skills.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">In the endgame, you may decide that your investigation has come to a head, and you can decide whether the caravans are guilty or innocent — and how you deal with them. Whether you are lawful or chaotic, honorable or corrupt, is up to you. I like to imagine that apart from protecting the city of Rimmen and its representatives, the Regulators would have a fairly lax sense of morality … Mine was not above a few crimes here and there if it aided him on his mission.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-variant:small-caps;"><span style="color:#ffffff;letter-spacing:5px;">CLOSING COMMENTS</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Again, I want to stress that James deserves the bulk of the credit on this one. All the core gameplay mechanics of this build came directly from his discoveries documented in the Tips & Tricks group. If you learned anything at all from reading this build, you owe it to yourself to read his material there.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:helvetica;">Also be aware that keeping the [inactive] Bound Bow spell in one hand may disable unarmed killcams. So if you're more interested in those sweet, sweet death blows, go ahead and hotkey the Bound Bow spell so you can easily toggle its presence in your hand as desired.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!</em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://theskyforge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/list/tag/teccam" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377874,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14377874?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p></div>Character Build: The Sword-Singerhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-sword-singer2017-09-26T01:15:17.000Z2017-09-26T01:15:17.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}35645157,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="200" alt="35645157?profile=original" />The <strong><em>Sword-singers</em></strong> were a prominent faction of swordsmen who hailed from the ancient island nation of Yokuda. The most powerful of the Sword-singers were capable of summoning powerful “spirit blades” called <em>Shehai</em> to aid them in battle. These men and women were granted the title of <strong><em>Ansei</em></strong>. So great was their power, that even during the events of Skyrim, literally eras later, the Ansei are often considered the greatest swordsmen — or even the greatest warriors — to have graced Tamriel.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Unfortunately, the Sword-singers were purged from Yokuda by Emperor Hiro in the First Era, and while some 20,000 survivors did manage to take refuge in Hammerfell by way of the island Herne, the faction seemingly died out centuries before the events of Skyrim.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p> </p>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><a href="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" width="50" alt="SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" /></a><span style="color:#333333;">“Oh but the gods did give me other gifts, the gift of sword singing, the thrill of battle, Frandar Hunding's Book of Circles, THE WAY OF THE SWORD.”</span></em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">The Build</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">This build was originally going to be an Ansei outright, but I ran into several problems during development that made that idea somewhat less appealing than I had originally hoped. My solution was to follow an Ansei from his early stages as a Sword-singer: still a talented warrior, but unable to form a Shehai and therefore unworthy to be called an Ansei.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Let us us assume that when the Ra’Gada immigrated to Tamriel, a small group remained on Herne rather than continue to Tamriel proper. Let us also assume that this community has continued to survive in isolation, developing its own tiny subculture more closely related to the old Yokudan ways than any surviving Redguard communities in Hamerfell.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">If you are comfortable making these assumptions, then accompany me as we follow the path of one particular young warrior who leaves this community in the pursuit of knowledge — and ultimately, his destiny as Dragonborn.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}35645166,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="35645166?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Part I: The Brother of the Blade</span></span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>~ Until level 25 ~</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Race</strong></span> » Redguard</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Stone</strong></span> » The Warrior</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Attributes</strong></span> » <span style="color:#993300;">2 Health</span> / <span style="color:#008000;">1 Stamina</span> / <span style="color:#333399;">0 Magicka</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Major Skills</strong></span> » One-handed, Alchemy</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Minor Skills</strong></span> » Block, Light Armor</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Key Shout</strong></span> » Elemental Fury</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Equipment</span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Weapon</strong></span> » A tempered Blades sword. It’s light, durable, fast, and easily improved with a single perk from the Smithing tree (such a trivial investment that I opted not to list it as even a minor skill). Keep it unenchanted for use with Elemental Fury.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><a href="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" width="50" alt="SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" /></a><span style="color:#333333;">“To you who are not Singers, this is a wilderness trek emulating the time of Frandar Hunding - where we each wander the country side righting wrongs, defeating monsters, performing quests in the name of virtue.”</span></em><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;color:#333333;"> </span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Gameplay</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830845011?profile=original"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}35645135,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="235" alt="35645135?profile=original" /></a>The first thing to do is to assemble your gear. Completing the requisite tasks will also get you started on your walkabout in Skyrim.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The walkabout has been a Sword-singer tradition since their early days on Yokuda. The walkabout essentially consists of traversing the land seeking out honorable deeds to help you develop as both a warrior and a student of the <em>Book of Circles</em> (see Roleplaying Notes).</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Once you have acquired your gear, you are ready to begin your walkabout in earnest. I suggest joining the Companions so that you have a group of honorable warriors to associate with, but try to avoid climbing too high in their ranks. You are a Sword-singer first and foremost, <strong>not</strong> a Companion.</span></p>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><a href="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" width="50" alt="SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" /></a></em></span></p>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><span style="color:#333333;">"Quickly we used up a crystal of healing in restoring him to vitality."</span></em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">To simulate the healing crystals described above, pick up an ancient crystalline artifact of your own: the White Phial. The Yokudan knowledge of science and magic that was required to make these crystals has been forgotten with the majority of their ways, and part of the Sword-singer’s walkabout entails the quest to regain that knowledge. The White Phial is quite possibly the missing link to regain the Yokudan crystal-making techniques, so study it and model your own alchemical experiments after your findings.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">I recommend training Block with Njada Stonearm from the Companions early on. The Quick Reflexes perk is vital in simulating the Sword-singers speed and dodging ability. Likewise, Power Bash is a perfect representation of the Sword-singer’s skill in parrying. The Sword-singer as I envision him <strong>generally</strong> prefers to block with his blade rather than a shield, but having a shield on hand would not be a bad idea.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The combat for this build is meant to be almost an art form, like fencing. It is important to keep this in mind during gameplay. Brutish hacking and slashing is beneath a Sword-singer. I made a conscious decision to forego any special moves with this build, relying instead on tactical discipline, physical skill, and timing (i.e., dodging, blocking, angles, vision, etc.). Special moves would only cheapen the importance on the requisite swordsmanship.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Be sure to hold on to every sample of Hanging Moss you find (Solitude Catacombs are teeming with this plant), as well as every soul gem. You will need these later on, and having a stockpile assembled over the course of 30 levels of gameplay will make things much easier down the road.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><strong><em><span style="color:#f9f9f9;letter-spacing:3px;"><a href="http://skyrimcalculator.com/#315093" target="_blank">Level 25 Perk Selection</a></span></em></strong></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830846514?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}35645137,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="35645137?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Part II: The Ansei</span></span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>~ Level 25 and on ~</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>New Stone</strong></span> » The Lord</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>New Skills</strong></span> » Conjuration, Enchanting</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Key Shouts</strong></span> » Slow Time, Clear Skies</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Equipment</span></span></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;" align="center"><span class="font-size-3" style="text-align:justify;font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>New Weapon</strong></span> <span style="text-align:justify;font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">» The fundamental difference between the Ansei and Sword-singers is that Ansei are capable of summoning a fully formed</span> <em style="text-align:justify;font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Shehai</em><span style="text-align:justify;font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">, or Spirit Blade. These legendary ethereal swords are more powerful than any physical blades. To counteract the Bound Sword’s inherent weaknesses, the Ansei draws from a specialized fountain of power: the Yokudan Crystal of Focusing (see Key Potions for details).</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><a href="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" width="50" alt="SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" /></a><span style="color:#333333;">“Oh I slew mightily, right and left, like a scythe through wheat. All the way to the Lord of the Tower I fought. With one blow I cut his magical armor asunder, one more took his head.”</span></em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Gameplay</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The combat for this portion of the build is largely similar to the previous portion. The key differences are preparation-based, stemming from the nature of the Shehai. Due to the nature of the Bound Sword, Elemental Fury is no longer effective in combat. The Ansei substitutes that with Slow Time to maintain a similar net effect, becoming a furious blur of poetry in motion. You can also use Slow Time as a sort of “extended Quick Reflexes” to simulate development with that ability.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}35645171,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="35645171?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">In addition to stunning enemies with the bashing perks from Block, the Ansei is capable of staggering enemies with his very voice, via the Clear Skies shout (simply aim the shout at a nearby enemy, all it takes is one word). And when he does bash, he is capable of rending weapons from enemy clutches.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><a href="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="http://images.uesp.net/0/08/SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" width="50" alt="SR-icon-weapon-BladesSword.png?width=50" /></a><span style="color:#333333;">“We sent him on to the king, while we six grabbed our weapons and armor of power, and as many potions, marks, and crystals and rings as we could carry.”</span></em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The core difference outside of combat is the addition of Enchanting. I know many people find the game to be too easy when you specialize in two crafting skills, so I did try to limit the investment as far as perks go. However, with this build, Enchanting is appropriate both from a lore perspective and a practical one. Specifically, use enchantments to augment the power of your Shehai (Fortify One-handed). To further keep the Shehai on a pedestal, it is important that you <strong>only</strong> use the Crystal of Focusing (see “Key Potions” below) while wielding your Shehai. </span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">As I mentioned previously, this build intentionally avoids special moves. However, consider that the Shehai is basically a constant special move in the best possible way.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> <span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Key Potions</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/wowwiki/images/4/4c/Inv_enchant_shardnexuslarge.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/wowwiki/images/4/4c/Inv_enchant_shardnexuslarge.png?width=75" width="75" alt="Inv_enchant_shardnexuslarge.png?width=75" /></a>Yokudan Crystal of Focusing</strong> (<em>The Hammer</em>)</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <em>Requires</em> » Canis Root, Juniper Berries, Hanging Moss</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <em>Effects</em> » Fortify One-handed 120% / Fortify Marksman 120%</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/wowwiki/images/1/16/Inv_enchant_voidcrystal.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/wowwiki/images/1/16/Inv_enchant_voidcrystal.png?width=75" width="75" alt="Inv_enchant_voidcrystal.png?width=75" /></a>Yokudan Crystal of Vitality</strong> (<em>The Anvil</em>)</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <em>Requires</em> » Blue Mountain Flower, Lavender, Wheat</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <em>Effects</em> » Fortify Conjuration 150% / Fortify Health +120 / Restore Health +188</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Roleplaying Notes</span></span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>~ The Way of the Sword ~</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The path of an Ansei is a path of honor and righteousness, guided by legendary Ansei Frandar Hunding’s Book of Circles. </span></p>
<ul><li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">A Sword-singer must eradicate any who take advantage of the helpless or commit heinous crimes for their own selfish means.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">A Sword-singer must never capture or manipulate a human soul.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">A Sword-singer must not join the Thieves Guild or Dark Brotherhood. Indeed, destroying the Dark Brotherhood is essential, and as for the Thieves Guild, I suggest intentionally botching the mandatory job involving Brand-Shei, then never speaking to Brynjolf again.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">A Sword-singer’s walkabout is a constant quest for knowledge and skill with the blade. Study the White Phial and model your creations after it, in an attempt to rediscover the methods of Yokudan crystal making.</span></li>
</ul><p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Closing</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">I’d like to thank <em><strong>Matt Feeney</strong></em> and <em><strong>Vazgen</strong></em> for all their help. Matt offered tons of wonderful insight and advice that helped shape the character, and Vazgen provided the fantastic screenshots for the write-up. <a href="http://imgur.com/a/J1VIl">Full album can be found here</a>! And thanks again to <em><strong>HeroicXCV</strong></em> for his fantastic featurette video.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">I also want to mention that there is some truly great lore on these guys, and I highly encourage everyone to check it out via the following links: [<a href="http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Lore:From_The_Memory_Stone_of_Makela_Leki" target="_blank">1</a>] [<a href="http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Lore:Frandar_Hunding" target="_blank">2</a>] [<a href="http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Lore:Sword-singer" target="_blank">3</a>] [<a href="http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Lore:Ra_Gada" target="_blank">4</a>] [<a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/lore/forum/topics/the-redguard-part-1">5</a>]</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://theskyforge.ning.com/members/John" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}35645173,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="35645173?profile=original" /></a></p></div>Character Build: The Progenitorhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-progenitor2017-08-27T20:00:09.000Z2017-08-27T20:00:09.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The word</span> <em style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">progenitor</em> <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">refers to an ancient ancestor, an archetypal origin figure. It is roughly synonymous with</span> <em style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">forebear</em><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">, a word with some notable ties to the Elder Scrolls world, the most relevant of which for this build's purposes is that it’s used by the Companions to describe a werewolf who grants his or her blood to someone to bring them into the pack. Accordingly, this build is more of an ancient Nord than a modern one, having more in common with the Atmorans of long ago, but feels a sense of kinship with the Companions as we know them today through shared beast blood.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830845127?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624385,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14624385?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">The Build</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Race</strong></span> » Nord Werewolf</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Stone</strong></span> » The Lord</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Attributes</strong></span> » <span style="color:#00008c;">1 Magicka</span> / <span style="color:#960000;">2 Health</span> / <span style="color:#007800;">1 Stamina</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Key Shouts</strong></span> » Become Ethereal, Clear Skies, Unrelenting Force, Cyclone, (Extended) Slow Time, Ice Form (until Dragonborn Frost is obtained), Frost Breath, Dragon Aspect</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Active Effects</strong></span> » Dragonborn Frost, Agent of Mara, Ancient Knowledge, Force Without Effort</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Essential Quests</strong></span> » <em>Main Quest, Dragonborn, Companions, Civil War - Imperial, Ill Met By Moonlight, The Book of Love, Unfathomable Depths, The Black Star, Wind and Sand, The Man Who Cried Wolf / The Wolf Queen Awakened</em></span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Major Skills</span></span></p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr style="vertical-align:middle;">
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<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830846262?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624329,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="75" alt="14624329?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
</td>
<td style="vertical-align:middle;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color:#960000;"><strong>Two-Handed</strong></span> » The preferred style of melee combat for the Progenitor. As a rather aggressive style, it complements the beastly vibe of the build quite nicely. Greatswords are the weapon of choice here as they have a relatively fast swing speed compared to other two-handed weapons.</span></td>
</tr>
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<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830846284?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624389,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="75" alt="14624389?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
</td>
<td style="vertical-align:middle;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color:#00008c;"><strong>Enchanting</strong></span> » This skill is essential for maximizing the Progenitor’s command over frost magic and is also useful in overcoming the build’s defensive weaknesses. Be sure to pick up the Black Star to make recharging your weaponry easier, and keep your enchantments fresh as you develop.</span></td>
</tr>
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<td style="vertical-align:middle;">
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847417?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="75" alt="14624294?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
</td>
<td style="vertical-align:middle;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color:#00008c;"><strong>Destruction</strong></span> » The Progenitor makes use of most frost spells, especially Ice Storm, Frost Cloak, and Icy Spear. It's also his only means of ranged combat. While it’s not a frost spell, Whirlwind Cloak is quite useful for this build as well and helps to mitigate the low defense issue.</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14624405,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624405,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="425" alt="14624405?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Minor Skills</span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848634?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624391,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="75" alt="14624391?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
</td>
<td style="vertical-align:middle;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="color:#960000;">Heavy Armor</span></strong> » The Progenitor uses a few specific pieces of heavy armor for both aesthetics and protection. Be sure to get the Ancient Knowledge effect from completing <em>Unfathomable Depths</em>; it provides a 25% increase in AR to all non-Dwarven heavy armor, contrary to what the description says.</span></td>
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<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830849839?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624333,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="75" alt="14624333?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
</td>
<td style="vertical-align:middle;">
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color:#960000;"><strong>Block</strong></span> » This build was designed with a high offense, low defense style in mind. Rather than constantly replenishing health via potions or spells, Block, in conjunction with absorb health and health regen enchantments, helps avoid the need to replenish health in the first place.</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align:center;"> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14624467,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624467,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14624467?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Weaponry</span></span></p>
<div align="center">
<table style="width:650px;" border="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="200">
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><span style="letter-spacing:2px;">Folvindr</span></strong></span></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830851034?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624393,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="125" alt="14624393?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Nord Hero Greatsword</span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-1">Frost Damage & Soul Trap</span></span></p>
</td>
<td width="200">
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><span style="letter-spacing:2px;">Svellbrandr</span></strong></span></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830852068?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624397,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="125" alt="14624397?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Nordic Greatsword</span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-1" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Frost Damage & Absorb Health</span></p>
</td>
<td width="200">
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><span style="letter-spacing:2px;">Kalastyra</span></strong></span></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830853248?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624339,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="125" alt="14624339?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Stalhrim Greatsword</span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-1" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Frost Damage & Absorb Stamina</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14624471,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624471,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14624471?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Some notes regarding equipment. The Wolf Boots/Gauntlets are both aesthetically and thematically an acceptable substitute for their Nordic Carved counterparts; however the latter provides more AR. Also, you’ll want either one or both of your magic resistance enchantments to be the Shield of Solitude version; combined with Agent of Mara and the Lord Stone, this will let you hit the magic resistance cap.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Aside from the equipment listed above, the Progenitor also makes use of the Ring of Bloodlust. Equip it immediately after being given the Cursed Ring of Hircine (during <em>Ill Met by Moonlight</em>) and its effects will be added without the Ring of Bloodlust actually being equipped. Once the Cursed Ring has been removed, you can equip another ring without losing the Ring of Bloodlust’s effects! Of course, once the curse is removed, the Ring of Hircine itself is also quite useful should you ever need to transform multiple times in one day.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830853628?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624473,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="625" alt="14624473?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Gameplay</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">One of the Progenitor’s greatest assets is his mastery over frost magic. While there have been plenty of other builds that make extensive use of the Blizzard spell and its unique mechanics, the Progenitor instead relies on the mid-tier frost spells, buffed through a combination of Augmented Frost, Deep Freeze, Dual Casting, Impact, and Dukaan:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Ice Storm inflicts 165 damage per dual cast and can easily hit multiple targets.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Icy Spear inflicts 247 damage per dual cast, the most powerful option available for attacking single targets from a distance.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Frost Cloak inflicts 15 damage per second, making for 900 total damage over the course of a minute.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Frost Breath is good for 168 total damage over five seconds, while encasing enemies in unbreakable ice for an additional ten seconds with Dragonborn Frost.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The build is designed to allow for dynamic shifting between equipped weapons and spells. Two-Handed weapons and dual cast spells make hotkey swapping very natural. While dual casted spells use up a lot of magicka, the Progenitor’s several fortify destruction enchantments mitigate that issue, and increase the number of charges on his weaponry as well.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830854810?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624341,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="250" alt="14624341?profile=original" /></a>Clear Skies, Cyclone, Ice Form (Frost Breath once Dragonborn Frost is obtained), and Unrelenting Force are used for crowd control. Clear Skies staggers all enemies in its path, even with just the first word (which recharges in five seconds), making it a good choice for a quick stagger, while the other shouts are useful for incapacitating enemies for several seconds. Become Ethereal has a wonderful variety of defensive applications, while Dragon Aspect is great for offense. Don’t forget about your racial power either; Battlecry works great in a pinch!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Quick Reflexes is an invaluable perk to the Progenitor. If you have the perk and some good timing, you can disengage your block right after it activates and use the lingering slowdown effect to dodge the power attack instead by sidestepping it, or better yet, circling around to your enemy’s back. Furthermore, by using just one word of Slow Time (you'll pick one up in Korvanjund during the Civil War questline) immediately after Quick Reflexes slowdown effect ends, Slow Time’s duration will be vastly increased, oftentimes allowing you to defeat your opponents before it even finishes!</span></p>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The crown jewel in the Progenitor’s offensive array is, of course, Beast Form. Having the Ring of Bloodlust permanently enabled sends your already strong offense through the roof, but at the cost of having even less defense than ever, making this form ideal for burst damage. Fortunately, you can cast a cloak spell before transforming and it’ll carry over into Beast Form. While Frost Cloak is certainly nice, you’ll almost always want to go with Whirlwind Cloak for its defensive applications.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830854976?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14624344,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="620" alt="14624344?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Recommended Mods</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/25392/?" target="_blank">Werewolf Mastery</a> - Massive overhaul with tons of customizable new features and mechanics for werewolves.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/60804/?" target="_blank">HD Werewolves</a> - My favorite retexture for werewolves (used in the screenshots in this thread).</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/22611/?" target="_blank">Bloodmoon Rising</a> - Adds new perks for werewolves to make Beast Form more exciting.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/22134/?" target="_blank">Werewolf Perks Expanded</a>- Alternative to Bloodmoon Rising. Check them both and decide if one suits your interests.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/58038/?" target="_blank">Real Feeding</a> - Makes feeding much more visceral and gory.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/59463/?" target="_blank">Moonlight Tales Essentials</a> - Massive overhaul for werewolves, including visual changes, new features, new abilities, mechanics, and more.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/13779/?" target="_blank">Heart of the Beast</a> - Amazing howl sound effects (don't use the textures though; use HD Werewolves and/or Moonlight Tales).</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/22274/?" target="_blank">Predator Vision</a> - Grants Night Vision in Beast Form as well as infrared vision and some nice customization options.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>Massive thanks to Albino for working with me on this one! Wouldn't have been possible without your work, my friend.</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>And thanks to Brew too, I guess. <img src="http://www.bkserv.net/images/Tongue.gif" alt="Tongue.gif" /></em></p>
<p> </p>
</div></div>Character Build: The Sapiarchhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-sapiarch2017-08-13T00:50:29.000Z2017-08-13T00:50:29.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align: justify;">This build has been a <em>long</em> time coming. Kaiser and I first conceived this baby nearly a year ago, at the dawn of the "Classes" Character Building Event. After all manner of distractions, we finally buckled down and got it done.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This was my first collaboration to actually make it past the preliminary testing phase, and it's so rewarding to have seen it evolve. Working with another person, you minimize inefficiency and maximize the potential for awesomeness. I am confident in saying that, for both Kaiser and me, this has been one of the most entertaining playthroughs we've experienced. We hope you enjoy it as much as we have!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652063?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652063?profile=original" width="640" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <span class="font-size-7" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 7px #7060F7; letter-spacing: 7px;">THE SAPIARCH</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Crystal Tower was once the pinnacle of magical knowledge and experimentation in Tamriel — until it was destroyed during the Great Anguish. And though the tower itself no longer stands, its power and influence continue to play a key role in the magical community in the Summerset Isles. A society of brilliant arcanists continues to operate under the same framework that was used eras ago, when the tower stood proud. The leaders of this community are called SAPIARCHS, and even amongst the High Elves, their magical abilities are supreme.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">There are only a few known Sapiarchs, and each is exceptionally knowledgeable in his or her chosen field. They are, essentially, magical specialists in one area or another. Example titles include: Sapiarch of Oblivion Study, Sapiarch of Enchantment, Sapiarch of Mythohistory, etc. This broad scope provides a lot of room for roleplay and customization, as the player is able to be the Sapiarch of whatever they desire (e.g., the Sapiarch of Arcane Defense, as Kaiser and I have chosen). </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652077?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652077?profile=original" width="640" /></a></p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Race</span></strong> » Altmer</p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Attributes</span></strong> » 2 <span style="color: #993300;">Health</span> / 3 <span style="color: #333399;">Magicka</span> / 0 <span style="color: #008000;">Stamina</span></p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Standing Stone</span></strong> » Atronach & Apprentice (via Aetherial Crown)</p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Major Skills</span></strong> » Archery, Alchemy, Alteration, Conjuration</p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Minor Skills</span></strong> » Destruction, One-Handed, Restoration</p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Shouts</span></strong> » Marked for Death, Slow Time, Disarm</p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Spells</span></strong> » Fireball, Bound Bow, Bound Sword, Ebonyflesh</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652090?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652090?profile=original" width="625" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #7060F7; letter-spacing: 6px;">THE BUILD</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652116?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652116?profile=original" width="272" height="373" /></a>Now you know the lore and the skills, and may have figured out that this is a Witchhunter. But what makes this guy any different than the dozens of other witchhunters here on the blog? Let us explain!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the early game, the Sapiarch plays much like a standard archer with some magic mixed in. You’re going to want to nab the Adept Conjuration perk as soon as you can and sprint through Fort Amol to grab Conjure Bound Bow. You should also consider grabbing the Diadem of the Savant from outside Froki's Shack. Combat skills will of course be a priority as you begin to find your way throughout Skyrim.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The midgame is where this character begins to get interesting. You’ll want to push through the Dawnguard questline until you get to the Soul Cairn. Once you are able to enter the Soul Cairn, find the ten pages from St. Jiub’s Opus and complete his quest to obtain the Locket of St. Jiub. This trinket plays an <em>incredibly</em> important role for the character: It is what allows us to obtain <em><strong>unlimited Stamina</strong>!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This trick is similar to the Unlimited Concentration Casting glitch observed in Mason’s <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/character-building/forum/topics/character-build-the-seraphim" target="_self">Seraphim</a>. The Stamina mechanic is a bit different from Magicka however: As many of you know by now, as long as you have any amount of Stamina above 0.00, you are able to power attack, sprint, or do pretty much any other action that requires Stamina. Well, this glitch makes it <strong><em>impossible</em></strong> for the player's Stamina to drain all the way down to 0.00 (most likely due to rounding errors within the game engine). Here’s how to achieve this:</p>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li>Do <span style="text-decoration: underline;">NOT</span> put any points into your stamina pool, it must be at its base 100 for this glitch to work!</li>
<li>Obtain St. Jiub’s locket. (This can be done using other pieces of equipment but for our purposes the locket is the best option)</li>
<li>Next you will need to drink three specific potions in the following order:
<ol>
<li>Philter of the Healer</li>
<li>Draught of the Healer</li>
<li>Another Philter of the Healer</li>
</ol>
</li>
<li>While the potions are still in effect, equip St. Jiub’s locket.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;">After completing the aforementioned steps, you should notice that you are able to run indefinitely, power attack repeatedly, and most importantly, maintain Steady Hand forever. Steady Hand makes moving targets much easier to hit — when you are able to shoot every single arrow in slow motion it becomes very easy to find your mark.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.imgur.com/1bdSlTT.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652139?profile=original" width="640" /></a><em><span class="font-size-1">Level 50 perks — click the image to expand for easier reading</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The endgame is where the character truly shines. Draugr, vampires, and other undead creatures will burn in a blaze of glory. James's <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/glitches/forum/topics/how-afterburn-damage-works-in-skyrim" target="_self">discussion on Afterburn damage</a> outlines just how powerful this character becomes when facing undead foes. By grabbing the Necromage perk from the Restoration tree, you will be able to deal <em>insane</em> amounts of damage against undead enemies by taking advantage of the ‘afterburn’ effect of Fireball.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The task of leveling Restoration up to level 70 for the Necromage perk is often a daunting one. However, by utilizing our good friend Florentius at Fort Dawnguard, you can receive Master training in Restoration. Florentius is <strong><em>perfect</em></strong> for training, because he also buys potions from the player. You can sell all those concoctions you’ve been creating while leveling up Alchemy, and finance Restoration at the same time and place!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Finally, the Sapiarch utilizes 100% Spell Absorption. Seeing Alchemy and the Aetherial Crown with both the Atronach and Apprentice stones probably made you think the "Advanced Stones" trick would be used. You would be incorrect! This character does in fact achieve 100% Absorbtion in a <strong><em>brand new way</em></strong> … using Alchemy (duh)! With both standing stones, the Sapiarch benefits from +50 Magicka, +50% Spell Absorption, and +50% net Magicka Regeneration. By drinking a custom potion of Fortify <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Destruction</span> with a magnitude of at least 67% prior to selecting the Atronach <strong>perk</strong> in the Alteration skill tree, you are able to enhance its effects from 30% to over 50%. This combined with the Atronach standing stone easily achieves max Spell Absorption and makes the Weakness to Magicka debuff provided by the Apprentice Stone irrelevant!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/56LTsYYvByg?rel=0&wmode=opaque" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #7060F7; letter-spacing: 6px;">ALCHEMY</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It is very important that you never remove the Locket of St. Jiub, or you will lose your infinite Stamina! So Fortify Alchemy necklaces are <strong>off limits</strong>! I used the Ring of Pure Mixtures, a set of Major Alchemy Bracers, and an Extreme Alchemy Circlet. This totals +51% Alchemy, and when you throw in the Seeker of Shadows passive, it behaves like +66% Alchemy. Which in turn yields nice, rounded potion numbers, as expressed below:</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/wowwiki/images/1/18/Inv_potion_77.png?width=64" width="64" />Tincture of the Tower</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Effects</em></span> » Marksman +100% & Health Regen +125%</p>
<p><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Ingredients</span></em> » Canis Root, Juniper Berries, Namira's Rot</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="http://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/wowwiki/images/7/7e/Inv_potion_70.png?width=64" width="64" />Crystalline Spirit</span></strong></p>
<p><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Effects</span></em> » Destruction +125% & Fortify Health +100</p>
<p><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Ingredients</span></em> » Glowing Mushroom, Nightshade, Wheat</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/wowwiki/images/d/dd/Inv_potion_35.png?width=64" width="64" />Toxin of Alinor</span></strong></p>
<p><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Effect</span></em> » Damage Health -125 & Lingering Damage -25/s for 10 seconds</p>
<p><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Ingredients</span></em> » Imp Stool, Mora Tapinella, River Betty</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #7060F7; letter-spacing: 6px;">SIGNATURE TACTICS</span></span></p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><br />
<img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2223790453,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" width="115" />Focus Mode</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Sapiarch of Arcane Defense is able to enter an intensive state of calm and control when he draws his bow, and he can remain in this state for ever. Rumor tells of a time when he maintained this state for a night and a day, when challenged by a fellow Sapiarch.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Requires</span></em> » Infinite Stamina + Steady Hand + Ranger</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2223791044,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" width="115" />Ultimate Focus</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Through years of practice and experimentation, the Sapiarch has learned how to reach an even deeper state of focus, even when using spells and swords. In this state, he moves faster than his opponents, and slows time around him even more. But only for a few moments at a time.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Requires</span></em> » Slow Time + Tincture of the Tower</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2223791608,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" width="115" />Vanquish</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Sapiarch has spent centuries honing his craft. Through his adventures and experiments, he has learned how to make short work of undead enemies. With this combination of skills, he can dish out truly massive (read: ~950) damage, and at minimal cost to his Magicka pool.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Requires</span></em> » Necromage + Crystalline Spirit + Dual-Casting + Fireball</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652152?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652152?profile=original" width="640" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>In case it wasn't already clear, this build was a joint effort between Kaiser and me. So any positive feedback should be directed as much to him as to me. Kaiser, it's been a true pleasure working with you on this build. I couldn't be more proud of how it turned out!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>We also owe thanks to James. His findings regarding Taper Damage and Infinite Stamina were both core components of this build from the very beginning. He was also the one who turned us on to the "advanced Atronach perk". This build really wouldn't have been possible without his contributions! James, I know you haven't been around much lately, but if you see this, I owe you a beer or something.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>The header art is called "<a href="http://anndr.deviantart.com/art/Rhanloo-373914287" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rhanloo</a>" by Anndr. Gorgeous piece!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Here's <a href="http://imgur.com/a/47V3g#0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">an album of 50+ 1080p screenshots of this guy in action</a>, for anyone who wants more! Also have <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=speAc5SzKEU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a quick video demonstrating how to activate infinite Stamina</a> for your convenience.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Thanks for reading!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p> </p>
</div>Character Build: The Montalionhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-montalion2017-06-20T19:50:57.000Z2017-06-20T19:50:57.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Back when I first published this build, I called it "my most ambitious build to date, and the one of which I am the most proud". Even now, nearly two years later (<span style="color: #808080;"><em>wow!</em></span>), this is still one of my favorite play styles of all time. Shamelessly powerful, gloriously brutal, and deliciously shrewd. I love the synergy and the lore framework as well.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">However, as much as I loved the original build, there were a fair few things I felt I could improve. So I put together an outline for these potential changes. And I've sat on that outline for the over a year now, waiting for a chance to revisit this build with the attention it deserved. That time is finally here, and I couldn't be happier with how it came together.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">At its core, the build still functions the same, but it's vastly more cohesive. I rewrote it nearly from scratch, trimmed a fair bit of fat, and added a lot of polish. There are new images, special moves, and a new suggested race. There's even <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aos_engqZ08" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a video</a>! This is much more than your run-of-the-mill revision: It's a full-on overhaul.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">I'm very happy to present: the new and improved Montalion!</span></p>
<p align="center"> <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> <a href="http://i68.tinypic.com/2ic8jg7.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="http://i68.tinypic.com/2ic8jg7.png" width="738" height="637" /></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 7px #C90051; letter-spacing: 7px;">THE MONTALION</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>For centuries, the Montalion vampire clan has held dominion in select regions of High Rock. Known for their unique ability to teleport in battle, Montalions can jump from target to target while their enemies hopelessly attempt to locate them.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Very little is known about the Montalion clan — there is only one known written account that even mentions them. This shady group of elite vampire tacticians and assassins prefers to keep it that way: Few who cross them live to tell about it. From what few survivors have emerged over the years, it is evident that the Montalions are unparalleled swordsman, subtle admixturers, and crafty mages, whose manipulation of time itself is a perversion of all that is right and just within Mundus.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366497,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366497,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="625" /></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Race</strong></span> <span style="text-align: left;">» Orc or Dunmer Vampire</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>Orc</strong></em> — The recommended race as of v2.0. Appropriate because the Montalion clan dwells in regions of High Rock close to Orsinium, and also for their Berserker Rage, which will prove useful in many scenarios. They also look great wearing the Redguard Hood.<br /></span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Dunmer</strong></em> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">— The race advised per the original build, and still very much appropriate as of v2.0. Dunmer look great in the Telvanni Robes, and their Ancestor's Wrath power and natural Fire Resistance are both relevant and helpful.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Stone</strong></span> » The Lady</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Major Skills</strong></span> » Alchemy, Alteration, Destruction</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Minor Skills</strong></span> » One-handed, Conjuration, Restoration</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Essential Shout</strong></span> » Slow Time</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Quests</strong></span> » College of Winterhold, Ill Met By Moonlight</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #000000;"><strong>Attributes</strong></span> » <span style="color: #333399;">1 Magicka</span> / <span style="color: #993300;">1 Health</span> / <span style="color: #008000;">0 Stamina</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><span class="font-size-3">Passive Effects</span></strong></span> » Blessing of Talos, Seeker of Shadows, Secret of Protection, Sinderion's Serendipity</span></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366620,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366620,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" /></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.uesp.net/e/eb/SR-icon-jewelry-GoldDiamondRing.png?width=50" width="50" /><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Ahzidal’s Ring of Arcana</em></strong></span> » Ignite is <em>perfect</em> ... fire damage over time, low spell cost, minimal perk investment. Wear this ring when you pick up the Cursed Ring of Hircine. It will be forcibly removed, but you can re-equip it immediately and its effects will be applied <strong><em>without the ring actually being equipped!</em></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.uesp.net/1/1b/SR-icon-jewelry-Ring_of_the_Erudite.png?width=50" width="50" /><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Ring of the Erudite</em></strong></span> » The above trick allows the Montalion to gain the effects of both Arcana and Erudite <em>simultaneously</em>. This bad boy increases your <em>base</em> Magicka Regen from 3% to 5% per second, and grants +100 Magicka to boot. Its effects even carry over to Vampire Lord form! See <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/glitches/forum/topics/let-s-investigate-the-ring-of-the-erudite?commentId=6452022%3AComment%3A1297911&groupId=6452022%3AGroup%3A277857" target="_self">this breakdown</a> for why it's the best item in the game.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;">  </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366575,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366575,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="625" /></a></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #C90051; letter-spacing: 6px;">THE BUILD</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">In the early game, make frequent use of flesh spells and the Bound Sword. Try to get a word or two of Slow Time by level 10, to start incorporating some rudimentary time manipulation into your tactics. We'll get to the good stuff a little later though.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Use the shrine of Talos next to Heimskr in Whiterun to pick up the Blessing as needed — it's mere seconds away from the Dragonsreach fast travel point, and doesn't require you to enter any cells to access. Very convenient!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Join the College early on, and sell excess potions to finance Restoration training with Colette. This skill levels slowly, and we'll want to get it leveled up as soon as possible, so training is <strong>mandatory</strong>!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">The core combat style can be set up right from the get-go; much of the build is based in the idea of buffing yourself with flesh spells and potions prior to combat. With that in mind, I <em>highly</em> recommend building a garden and greenhouse via Hearthfire A.S.A.P. It is essential to ensure that you have a healthy stock of potions and ingredients on hand at all times!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366654,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366654,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="310" /></a>When you get Restoration up to 70 for Necromage, your potions and flesh spells will increase in both magnitude (<span style="color: #808080;">+25%</span>) and duration (<span style="color: #808080;">+50%</span>). Better yet, you'll get 50% more time with each Slow Time shout. Later on, Stablity will push this even further, and Fortify Alteration potions will allow you to remain in Slow Time <strong>indefinitely</strong>! (<span style="color: #808080;">Alternatively, you can drink a Fortify Restoration potion prior to equipping the Amulet of Talos, to buff its enchantment strength ... But I preferred relying on potions.</span>) This is the core of the build: Superhuman speed, aided by a strong defense — 375 AR in the endgame — when necessary. Which isn't often: You can essentially avoid being hit altogether!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Another benefit of Necromage here is that it extends the duration of the Blessing of Talos to a very solid 12 hours. Keep in mind that, while this is <em>technically</em> 12 hours of real time, it <strong>is</strong> affected by both waiting and fast traveling. If you're the type of player who avoids those wherever possible, you'll find that your blessing can last a <em>very</em> long time. Conversely, if you fast travel everywhere and wait constantly, you should always keep an eye on your Active Effects page to be sure the blessing is still active.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">So, we've covered the infinite Slow Time ... Now, as awesome as that sounds — and it's even more awesome in practice — we haven't even gotten to the best part yet. The Montalion clan's most unique tangible asset is a uniquely powerful ritual for summoning a <em><strong>Bound Sword</strong></em>: By drinking a <strong><em>Montalion Tincture</em></strong> (<span style="color: #808080;">see the “Alchemy” appendix</span>) the Montalion is able to summon a blade more deadly than any physical sword known to man. More powerful even than the legendary Umbra itself. You see, the Bound Sword is affected by both the Fortify One-Handed <em>and</em> Fortify Archery alchemy effects, allowing for unprecedented damage — when you throw in Necromage, we're talking about more than seven-<em>times</em> the norm (<span style="color: #808080;">+618%</span>)!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366580,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366580,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="625" /></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">The more you play this build, the more you'll come to realize that flesh spells are largely unnecessary — with infinite Slow Time, you won't be getting hit at all. Though it can be nice to actually hold off on Slow Time every so often, in which case those flesh spells will definitely come in handy. If you do decide to give Slow Time a break, consider <em><strong>Marked for Death</strong></em>, <em><strong>Drain Vitality</strong></em>, and <strong><em>Become Ethereal</em></strong> as other effective shouts to support the play style.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Since flesh spells become pointless with Slow Time active, the Montalion instead turns to <em><strong>Ignite</strong></em>. That's right, this vampire is so badass that he wields fire with <em>relish</em>, rather than cowering from it like his kin. Ignite suits this build incredibly well, because of the synergy damage over time lends to the Slow Time theme. And it stacks upon itself!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Another thing to consider: <em>The Bound Sword can be poisoned</em>. Custom poisons of Lingering Health Damage — <em><strong>Plaguing Fumes</strong></em> — complement Ignite as another source of damage over time. In the endgame, these poisons can get up to 509 net damage (<span style="color: #808080;">169 + 34 × 10</span>). Ignite, meanwhile, caps at 18.7 DPS (<span style="color: #808080;">280 cumulative damage per hit</span>), with Augmented Flames and a custom Destruction potion, the <em><strong>Infernal Brew</strong></em> ... Or 41 DPS if dual-cast (<span style="color: #808080;">61.6 with a Destruction scroll from Shalidor's Insights</span>). And, again: <strong><em>Ignite can stack upon itself!</em></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Between these two sources of damage over time, you'll basically be able to run through dungeons at the speed of sound, slapping burns and blights on your enemies and leaving the room before they even <em>realize</em> they're roasting to death. You can make it to the end of many dungeons while half of the inhabitants are still burning or bleeding out.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">If you encounter an enemy who resists both poison and fire, you'll have no trouble at all taking them down with your blade — with or without Slow Time — in a style reminiscent of the earlier levels. Alternatively, there's always <em><strong>Vampire Lord form</strong></em> ... With the Ring of the Erudite, and optional flesh spells and/or cloaks prior to transformation, the Montalion optimizes that form <em>very</em> effectively as well. Indeed, Magicka is virtually endless, and new perks and abilities can unleash tremendous damage to enemies of all shapes and sizes.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em style="font-size: 9pt;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830844822?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366633,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="625" /></a>Level 40 perk selection. Click for full resolution.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #C90051; letter-spacing: 6px;">ALCHEMY LOG</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">As discussed in the gameplay section, Alchemy is of the utmost importance to the Montalion's success. I <em>highly</em> encourage you to build Windstad Manor via Hearthfire, for its unique fish hatchery. The Montalion’s skill in Alteration allows him to transmute iron into gold, which is a great method for earning money for construction materials early on. (<span style="color: #808080;">Later, custom potions can fund skill training and home furnishing.</span>)</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Key potions in the Montalion’s arsenal are listed below. Note that all of the ingredients can be grown using Hearthfire’s garden, greenhouse, and/or fish hatchery, except Hanging Moss. Which can be harvested <em>en masse</em> at the <em><strong>Solitude Catacombs</strong></em> — there are over 70 samples inside, and the zone respawns every ten days! You may also want to go fishing for spare River Betties in the swamps around Windstad manor, and any lakes you happen to come across.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">For your convenience, all magnitudes listed here assume you're wearing a Peerless Alchemy Circlet & Necklace, Eminent Alchemy Gauntlets, and the Ring of Pure Mixtures — all of which can be obtained by level 40.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong><span class="font-size-3"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/wowwiki/images/4/4b/Inv_potion_62.png?width=75" width="75" /></span></strong></em><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><span class="font-size-3">Infernal Brew</span></strong></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><em><strong>Effects</strong></em></span> » Fortify Destruction +211%, Fortify Health +168</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Ingredients</em></strong></span> » Glowing Mushroom + Nightshade + Wheat</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #800000;"><img class="align-left" src="http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061123060113/wowwiki/images/1/1e/Inv_potion_76.png?width=75" width="75" /></span></strong></em><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><span class="font-size-3">Montalion Tincture</span></strong></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><em><strong>Effects</strong></em></span> » Fortify One-Handed +618% (<span style="color: #808080;"><em>yes, you're reading that correctly!</em></span>)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Ingredients</em></strong></span> » Juniper Berries + Canis Root + Hanging Moss</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="color: #800000; font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/wowwiki/images/5/5e/Inv_potion_41.png?width=75" width="75" /></em><span style="color: #000000;">Plaguing Fumes</span></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Effects</em></strong></span> » Damage Health -169 & Lingering Damage Health -34/sec for 10 seconds</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Ingredients</em></strong></span> » Imp Stool + Mora Tapinella + River Betty</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><img class="align-left" src="http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/wowwiki/images/f/f3/Inv_potion_83.png?width=75" width="75" />Timeflux Serum</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Effects</em></strong></span> » Fortify Alteration +168% (<span style="color: #808080;"><em>Slow Time lasts 168% longer</em></span>)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Ingredients</em></strong></span> » Grass Pod + River Betty</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #C90051; letter-spacing: 6px;">SPECIAL MOVES</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><span class="font-size-3"><img class="align-left" src="http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/poxnorafans/images/a/a6/Firestorm.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20131002152548&width=125" width="126" height="145" />Smite</span></strong></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Incinerate your opponents with stacking gouts of flame. At more than 60 DPS per cast, you will burn through armies in mere seconds, leaving naught but a trail of ash in your glorious wake.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Requires</em></strong></span> » Dual Casting, Infernal Brew, Shalidor's Insights (Destruction), Ignite</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><span class="font-size-3"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}2975971093,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2975971093,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="126" height="145" /></a>Cleave</span></strong></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Channel your bestial nature into a relentless onslaught of vicious, brutal strikes. With each slash doing approximately 12.5x normal damage, opponents won't have time to beg for mercy.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #333399;"><strong><em>Requires</em></strong></span> » Berserker Rage, Montalion Tincture, Mystic Binding, Bound Sword</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 6px #C90051; letter-spacing: 6px;">GAMEPLAY DEMONSTRATION</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aos_engqZ08?rel=0&wmode=opaque" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0"></iframe></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em style="font-size: 9pt;">Watch in full screen HD! Consult the video description for a list of mods used.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Many thanks to Albino and Vazgen for their input and advice! And thank <strong>you</strong> for reading.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://theskyforge.ning.com/members/John" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377832,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" /></a></span></p>
</div>Character Build: The Revakriidhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-revakriid2017-06-19T22:10:32.000Z2017-06-19T22:10:32.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The Revakriid (from the dragon words <strong><em>revak</em></strong>, meaning "sacred," and <strong><em>kriid</em></strong>, meaning "slayer") is a hunter and vanquisher of dragons and dragon priests. For every draconic foe he slays, his own power grows. He uses Alchemy and Enchanting, in conjunction with the Talos Amulet and Blessing, to achieve a complete mastery of the Thu'um: <strong>100% Fortify Shouts</strong> (completely eliminating the cooldown time for all shouts except Dragon Aspect). This allows him to pull off some truly amazing Shout combos, granting him the ability to cut through draconic foes as if they were mere mudcrabs.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><br /> <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830844929?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366691,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="700" alt="14366691?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em> </em></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;" align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">I went through a bunch of revisions with this build before I found something that felt just right. I wanted to come up with something that revolved around optimizing Fortify Shouts, while still having a more lore-friendly side. I'm having a lot of fun playing this one; it's very fast-paced, and the Shouts are much more interesting and diverse than any of the standard magic schools. If you've never used Shouts as a primary mode of combat, give this build a shot.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;" align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">The Build</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>· <span class="font-size-3">Race</span></strong> » Breton. <span style="color:#808080;">Chosen for their magic resistance, but any race will do.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>· <span class="font-size-3">Stone</span> </strong>» The Lord.<span style="color:#808080;"><br /> </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>· <span class="font-size-3">Major Skills</span> </strong>» Alchemy, Enchanting</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>· <span class="font-size-3">Minor Skills</span> </strong>» Two-handed, Heavy Armor</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em>·</em> <span class="font-size-3">Attributes</span></strong><em> </em>» <span style="color:#993300;">3</span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="color:#993300;"> Health</span><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="color:#333399;"> <span style="color:#000000;">/ <span style="color:#008000;">2 Stamina <span style="color:#000000;">/</span> <span style="color:#333399;">0 Magicka</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <strong><span class="font-size-3">Quests</span> </strong>» Companions, Boethiah's Calling, Thieves Guild (<span style="color:#808080;">up to becoming a Nightingale</span>)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <span class="font-size-3"><strong>Key Passives</strong></span> » Blessing of Talos, Dragonborn Force</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">Equipment</span></span></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366738,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366738,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="620" alt="14366738?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">Tracing the Origins</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">In his youth, the Revakriid fought with the Companions, ascending to the rank of Harbinger. However, leading the guild inevitably became dull to the young warrior, so he left the Companions to seek adventure elsewhere. To this day, the Revakriid still fights with a Nord Hero weapon, a tribute to his days in Whiterun. A great perk of becoming Harbinger is that Farkas will offer 5 free levels of Heavy Armor training for every character level increase: just make sure he is your follower before you pay him, and take your gold back after training.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830846085?profile=original"><img class="align-center" style="padding:3px;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366695,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="14366695?profile=original" /></a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">Alchemical Aptitude</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">At 100 Enchanting, the Revakriid can create a set of Alchemist gear (four pieces of your favorite clothing, each with 25% Fortify Alchemy). Wear this set of gear when making your potions, and the effects will be magnificent. The Revakriid has several key potions in his arsenal:</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20070120220952/wowwiki/images/b/b0/Inv_potion_109.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20070120220952/wowwiki/images/b/b0/Inv_potion_109.png?width=64" width="64" alt="Inv_potion_109.png?width=64" /></a><span class="font-size-3">Healer's</span></strong> <span class="font-size-3"><strong>Salve</strong></span><br /> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <span style="color:#993366;"><strong><em>Effect</em></strong></span> » Restoration spells and effects are 150% more effective.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>·</em> <span style="color:#993366;"><strong><em>Ingredients</em></strong></span> » Yellow Mountain Flower & Abecean Longfin</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20070120221102/wowwiki/images/1/1b/Inv_potion_116.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20070120221102/wowwiki/images/1/1b/Inv_potion_116.png?width=64" width="64" alt="Inv_potion_116.png?width=64" /></a><span class="font-size-3">Infusion of Infarction</span></strong><br /> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <span style="color:#993366;"><strong><em>Effect</em></strong></span> » Inflicts 150 damage, and slows movement speed to 50% for 150 seconds.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>· <span style="color:#993366;"><strong>Ingredients</strong></span></em> » Deathbell & River Betty</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061123055904/wowwiki/images/7/71/Inv_potion_66.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061123055904/wowwiki/images/7/71/Inv_potion_66.png?width=64" width="64" alt="Inv_potion_66.png?width=64" /></a><span class="font-size-3">Debilitating</span></strong> <span class="font-size-3"><strong>Distillate</strong></span><br /> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <em><span style="color:#993366;"><strong>Effect</strong></span> </em>» Causes 30 damage per second for 10 seconds, and 30 seconds of paralysis.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>· <span style="color:#993366;"><strong>Ingredients</strong></span> </em>» Canis Root & Imp Stool & Mora Tapinella</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061123060037/wowwiki/images/a/ab/Inv_potion_73.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20061123060037/wowwiki/images/a/ab/Inv_potion_73.png?width=64" width="64" alt="Inv_potion_73.png?width=64" /></a><span class="font-size-3">Essence of <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;font-size:medium;">Rejuvenation</span></span></strong><br /> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <em><span style="color:#993366;"><strong>Effect</strong></span> </em>» Restores 188 health, and fortifies health by 120 points for 60 seconds.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>·</em> <em><span style="color:#993366;"><strong>Ingredients</strong></span> </em>» Blue Mountain Flower & Wheat</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">All ingredients <em>except</em> for Yellow Mountain Flower can be grown in the garden, greenhouse, or fish hatchery (<span style="color:#808080;">via Hearthfire DLC</span>). The mountain flower can be harvested in bulk at <em>Ancestor Glade</em> (<span style="color:#808080;">via Dawnguard DLC</span>), even if the player has not begun the Dawnguard story. Having a Hearthfire house is a tremendous asset to this build: not only does it allow you to cultivate nearly all of the important ingredients, but it also allows you to build a personal Talos shrine in your basement. This will be extremely handy for the Revakriid's key selling point: his Voice.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366742,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366742,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="14366742?profile=original" /></a></em></span><em style="font-size:9pt;font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Because of the awesome appearance of the kit, and the forgiving reach and swing radius of the greatsword, I suggest playing this build primarily in third person.</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">Thu'um Mastery</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The secret to the Revakriid's unique control of the Voice lies in his Healer's Salve, described above. The Fortify Restoration potion effect applies to enchantments and blessings, as long as they are taken while under the potion's effects. The Revakriid uses this trick with the Talos amulet and blessing to master the Voice:</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">• Amulet of Talos » (<span style="color:#808080;">20%</span>) × (<span style="color:#808080;"><span style="color:#000000;">1 +</span> 150%</span>) = 50% Fortify Shouts (<span style="color:#808080;"><em>indefinitely</em></span>)</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">• Blessing of Talos » (<span style="color:#808080;">20%</span>) × (<span style="color:#808080;"><span style="color:#000000;">1 +</span> 150%</span>) = 50% Fortify Shouts (<span style="color:#808080;"><em>for 8 hours</em></span>)</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">• Combined » 50% + 50% = <strong>100% Fortify Shouts</strong>!</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847310?profile=RESIZE_320x320"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366802,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="325" alt="14366802?profile=original" /></a>With his theoretical foundation of the Voice completed, the Revakriid's main focus now is to collect Words of Power, as he studies to achieve a true practical mastery of the Thu'um. Experiment with Shout combos, and unlock their true potential.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">I have listed a couple of fun combinations below, but there are many, many more for you to discover! Dragons and Dragon Priests will bow before your Voice!</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">With the help of Fortify Smithing potions and enchantments, you should be able to make your greatswords very powerful. Consider having one or two enchanted swords, as well as an unenchanted one for Elemental Fury. The Dragonborn DLC adds Nordic Carved greatswords, which look downright gorgeous, if you want to mix things up from the Nord Hero greatswords.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Even though the Revakriid is not a stealthy character by nature, the Ebony Mail’s Muffle effect combines with custom potions of Invisibility and/or Fortify Sneak, allowing him to breeze through the Thieves Guild quest line for the Nightingale Hood. Your AR will be decent by default, but you can buff it with enchantments if you desire. I found it was unnecessary; with proper usage of Shouts, you can completely control every battle.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Now, all that is left to do is to fill out the shrine at Labryinthian, hone your Thu’um, and fulfill your destiny as Dovahkiin!</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848562?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366745,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14366745?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><em>Level 35 perk selection. Click the image for full resolution.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">Special Abilities</span></span> </p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong><a href="http://i.imgur.com/7IqsnPf.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://i.imgur.com/7IqsnPf.jpg?width=105" width="105" alt="7IqsnPf.jpg?width=105" /></a></strong></em><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Wind Dance</strong></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Words of Power </em> » <strong>Dun · Ven · Tuz </strong> (<span style="color:#808080;"><em>Grace Wind Blade</em></span>)</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Using an unprecedented mastery of the Thu’um, the Revakriid dances around his enemies with the speed and precision of a true Dovah.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><span style="color:#993366;"><strong> Requires</strong></span></em> » Slow Time, and Elemental Fury.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong><a href="http://i.imgur.com/qmahkzr.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652038?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="105" alt="7652038?profile=RESIZE_180x180" /></a></strong></em><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Frost Grip</strong></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Words of Power</em> » <strong>Iiz · Laas · Diin </strong> (<span style="color:#808080;"><em>Ice Life Freeze</em></span>)</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">The Revakriid freezes the enemy in its tracks, while sucking health away passively via shouts and enchantments.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><span style="color:#993366;"><strong> Requires</strong></span></em> » Marked for Death, Storm Call, Ice Form, and Ebony Mail.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fdfdfd;letter-spacing:4px;">Acknowledgements</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <span style="color:#993366;"><em><strong>Ponty</strong></em></span> » For providing the awesome screenshots.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <span style="color:#993366;"><em><strong>lingy-0</strong></em></span> » DeviantArt user who made the header image. View <a href="http://lingy-0.deviantart.com/" target="_blank">his page here</a>.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">· <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Adrik</strong></em></span> » For discovering the use of Yellow Mountain Flowers in Fortify Restoration potions.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://theskyforge.ning.com/members/John" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377892,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="14377892?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p></div>Character Build: The Bloodclawhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-bloodclaw2017-05-28T10:23:53.000Z2017-05-28T10:23:53.000ZTae-Raihttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/TaeRai<div><p dir="ltr">If you’re reading this and don’t already know why you’re here, this build is a collaboration between myself, Teccam, and SkallyV, and our entry for the latest building contest. We chose Falkreath for our hold, as will — we hope — be made clear as you read on. This build was a blast to write and play: streamlined, visceral, and versatile are the keys here. Enjoy, and be sure to check out <a rel="nofollow" href="http://web.archive.org/web/20150828213117/http://tamrielvault.com/group/character-building/forum/topic/listForTag?tag=Contest3" target="_self">the other contest entries</a> too!</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a rel="nofollow" href="http://web.archive.org/web/20150828213117/http://orig13.deviantart.net/2499/f/2011/161/a/8/werewolf_by_wert23-d3ij2i4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://web.archive.org/web/20150828213117im_/http://orig13.deviantart.net/2499/f/2011/161/a/8/werewolf_by_wert23-d3ij2i4.jpg?width=525" width="525" class="align-center"></a></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>THE BLOODCLAW</strong></em></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>The Shadow-Scales are the most deadly and secretive assassins in Tamriel. Without their influence, the Dark Brotherhood would be but a fraction of what it has become. Yet even among this powerful organization of reptilian assassins, not all are equal. Within their ranks lurk a select few members of an exclusives caste. The best of the Shadow-Scales, the elite of the elite ... The Bloodclaws.</em></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>This much is true: All Shadow-Scales are swift as wind and silent as stone, and all Shadow-Scales can kill a man in a thousand different ways without being detected. Yet only the Bloodclaws are entrusted with their most advanced techniques. They forge a deep connection between the Hunt and the Hist to gain powers other assassins cannot even imagine!</em></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>The Bloodclaw is a blade in the shadows. He is a knife in the dark, and the unending void. He is death.</em></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>When death comes, none escape.</em></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Race</strong> » Argonian Werewolf</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Stone</strong> » The Lady</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Attributes</strong> » All Health, all the time!</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Skills</strong> » One-handed, Alchemy, Sneak, Light Armor, (Lycanthropy)</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Shouts</strong> » Elemental Fury, Throw Voice, Dragonrend, Whirlwind Sprint</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Passives</strong> » Blessing of Arkay, Seeker of Shadows, Force Without Effort</p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830844311?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830844311?profile=original" width="630" class="align-center"></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>THE BUILD</strong></em></p>
<p dir="ltr">You may be wondering ... <em>This build has only four skills perked; won’t it get repetitive?</em> Well, if you are, you’re wrong! (Now don’t you feel silly?) These skills support each other wonderfully. And don’t forget that with our investment in lycanthropy, we effectively have a fifth skill perked and actively used. To keep things from growing stagnant, we focused on three very different styles of combat for the Bloodclaw to master:</p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Servant of the Void</strong><strong>.</strong> Stealth is the bread and butter here. Be in sneak mode virtually non-stop, with Silent Roll and ultimately Shadow Warrior allowing you to flit in and out of the shadows at full speed, severing arteries and slitting throats, like the master assassin you are! Dual Ebony Daggers (unenchanted and tempered) with Ancient Shrouded Gloves and Assassin’s Blade will rip enemies to ribbons before they ever know you’re behind them. This is classic stealth at its most lethal and efficient. No sniping from the shadows though — this is all about getting up close and personal with your marks. Throw Voice is the best shout here, so use it liberally.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Servant of Blood</strong><strong>.</strong> For when you want to play with your food, or prove that your might is not limited to the shadows. Here, we employ massive Health Regen (100% from enchants, 150% from potions, 25% from the Lady, and of course, Histskin) with high bleeding DOT (dual Orcish War Axes, Lingering Damage Health poisons) to tear our enemies down while preserving our own life force. Elemental Fury is used to expedite power attacks, stacking bleeding damage and stun-locking opponents. Be sure to keep your left-hand axe unenchanted! Absorb Stamina in the right hand allows us to power attack almost endlessly, and Absorb Health is also an option which allows you to optimize survivability even more. So pick your poison there (pun shamelessly intended — don’t forget those DOT brews). Save Histskin for when you really need it but do know that you can use it more than once per day — simply transform to Beast Form via the Ring of Hircine, and Histskin’s cooldown will be cleared!</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Servant of the Hunt</strong><strong>.</strong> Your ultimate form, an evolution of the previous style, and a tenuous bridge between two of the greatest forces that govern Falkreath (and indeed, Tamriel and beyond): Sithis andHircine. This is all about Beast Form, buffed by even more massive Health Regen than before (the Ring of the Hunt, potions, and the Lady, plus a higher base Health pool via Werewolf perks). As mentioned before, you can use the Ring of Hircine to transform more than once per day, and reset Histskin’s cooldown. That offers tremendous synergy between this style and the previous one. Take advantage! Gorge on fallen foes to further sustain your transformation and your life force, and you will be virtually untouchable with that massive Health Regen — <a rel="nofollow" href="http://web.archive.org/web/20150828213117/http://tamrielvault.com/group/glitches/forum/topics/let-s-investigate-the-ring-of-the-hunt" target="_self">dozens of Health per second</a> — and your ragdolling claw attacks. Howl of Terror can be used to intimidate weaker opponents into submission. Especially helpful for the first 15-20 levels. Don’t forget it!</p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830844934?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830844934?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="633" class="align-center"></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Getting Started</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Shrouded Armor should be your first gear set, and can be picked up right at level 1 when you join the Dark Brotherhood. If you don’t like its appearance, Linwe’s Armor and the Blackguard’s Armor are suitable alternatives, both of which can be obtained with minimal investment in the Thieves Guild line (we’ll also recommend a few mod alternatives later on). But that 2x backstab damage from the Shrouded Gloves is very hard to pass up! Also note that the Ancient Shrouded Cowl is bugged for Argonians, so consider holding onto the normal [unmasked] Shrouded Cowl if you do opt to use the Brotherhood gear.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Join the Companions early, and stick around just long enough to be bitten. This character has no need to remain in Jorrvaskr beyond that point, and would not join the Companions at all if there were any other way to acquire lycanthropy.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830846361?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830846361?profile=original" width="280" class="align-left"></a>Become thane of Falkreath, and buy Lakeview Manor ASAP to start growing ingredients. The Ring of Hircine should be obtained only after you’ve bought the Ring of the Hunt: Equip the latter prior to beginning Ill Met By Moonlight, and attempt to re-equip it when it is forcibly removed by the Cursed Ring during that quest. This will let you passively keep the Ring of the Hunt’s power whenever you enter Beast Form, allowing its use multiple times per day and minimizing the need to swap gear. Win-win-win! Note: Do NOT attempt to equip any of the other Frostmoon rings after you’ve done that, or it will overwrite the Ring of the Hunt effect!</p>
<p dir="ltr">Orcish War Axes can be obtained very early on, and you can simply make your way through better daggers and Health Regen jewelry as you level up. Be sure to temper your unenchanted weapons for a damage boost, it’ll add up quickly with backstab multipliers. Stealth (“Servant of the Void”) should be your main focus at first, with Beast Form (“Servant of the Hunt”) acting as your “oh shit button” or your boss battle tactic.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Begin to integrate the in-your-face “Servant of Blood” style in the mid-game, when you have access to decent Health Regen jewelry and potions, and the bleeding damage perks from One-handed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Ring of Revival will be used almost exclusively in human [lizard] form in the endgame, exceptwhen you want to transform to Beast Form and the power hasn’t cooled down yet (in which case, you will need the Ring of Hircine to transform). And again, as mentioned previously, it’s ideal to equip the Ring of the Hunt during Ill Met By Moonlight to acquire its benefits passively and permanently, so you never need to think about it again.</p>
<p dir="ltr">And seriously, the Ring of the Hunt is <strong>essential</strong> here. It will allows you to tank against giants, dragons, etc. and never drop below 80% Health, because you'll be recovering around 35-40+ Health per second if you optimize everything! This is one of the build's biggest selling points, and also one of the most fun ways to play Skyrim you will ever experience. Honestly, try it and see for yourself.</p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Dragons are one opponent that you may want to plan for in advance. Craft a few potions with elemental resistance (particularly fire and frost) to help mitigate their breath attacks. You can also use Dragonrend to ground them, but that prevents you from using Elemental Fury when they do land, so use temperately. Just wail at them with all you’ve got when they land, and duck away when they fly off, healing with potions if necessary. Histskin should also make dragons very easy to deal with.</p>
<p dir="ltr">You may want to keep Whirlwind Sprint on hand as well, as a gap closer when dealing with enemy archers and mages. They become far less dangerous when you can attack them at melee range. Though often, you can simply sneak up on them before they’ve noticed you.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Lastly, note that the perks spread calls for a level 45 character. With only four “leveling skills”, you willneed to make one skill Legendary to hit 45. We highly recommend Alchemy, as you can stockpile ingredients by the hundreds for quick re-leveling. Mora Tapinella, Creep Cluster, and Scaly Pholiota combine for the best potion if you want to level quickly using growable ingredients. You can easily harvest 30+ of each every 2-3 days with the garden and greenhouse for super-quick leveling.</p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/kC6fnIi.jpg"></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong>M</strong></em><em><strong>ASTER OF FALKREATH</strong></em></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652056?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/7652056?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="226" class="align-left"></a>As this is a submission for the holds contest, we’ll give a quick rundown/recap of why this build represents our chosen hold, Falkreath.</p>
<p dir="ltr">First off, obviously, the Bloodclaw is a master assassin for the Dark Brotherhood. The Shadow-Scales have been supplying the Brotherhood with elite assassins for centuries. The Brotherhood is, of course, based in Falkreath (until the Sanctuary is infiltrated late in the storyline, at least).</p>
<p dir="ltr">Falkreath is also associated with death in general — as is the Brotherhood, and our character. To further cement this connection, you should regularly refill your Blessing of Arkay (who is associated with death, funerals, etc.) at the Falkreath graveyard (oh, hey, more death! It’s almost like we’ve got a theme here).</p>
<p dir="ltr">Falkreath is heavily associated with hunting as well. Assassination is itself a form of hunting, of course, but we also have the greatest forest in Skyrim, teeming with fauna and hunters. And the ultimate hunt, as seen in Ill Met By Moonlight, is also held here and will be mandatory for this playthrough. So the Bloodclaw is a hunter of man, mer, and beast alike, in all three combat styles as well as at the very core of the character.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Furthermore, this character makes heavy use of several assets in Falkreath. In addition to the Shrine of Arkay, Lady stone, and various Brotherhood gear, Lakeview Manor is a huge help for all things Alchemical. Between the garden and greenhouse, as well as access to the lake for fishing and other ingredients, it’s an alchemist’s paradise. You will need to become thane of Falkreath to purchase it, meaning your character may want to live a double life by day as a peaceful hunter of local wildlife to further build a connection to the hold.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>HERBLORE</strong></em></p>
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847467?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847467?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="64" class="align-left"></a></b><b><br> Effects</b> » Fortify Health Regen & Fortify Marksman</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong> » Juniper Berries + Canis Root + Namira’s Rot</p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="color: #c0c0c0;">-</span></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847508?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847508?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="64" class="align-left"></a><br> Effects</strong> » Fortify Health & Restore Health</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong> » Blue Mountain Flower + Wheat</p>
<p><br> <br> <strong><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847530?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830847530?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="64" class="align-left"></a><br> Effects</strong> » Fortify Sneak & Resist Frost</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong> » Purple Mountain Flower + Thistle Branch</p>
<p><br> <br> <strong><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848768?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848768?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="64" class="align-left"></a><br> Effects</strong> » Resist Fire & Resist Shock</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong> » Fly Amanita + Snowberries + Swamp Fungal Pod</p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="color: #c0c0c0;">-</span></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848820?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848820?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="64" class="align-left"></a><strong><br> Effects</strong> » Lingering Damage Health</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong> » Imp Stool + Mora Tapinella</p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Also familiarize yourself with <a rel="nofollow" href="http://web.archive.org/web/20150828213117/http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Skyrim:Invisibility_(effect)" target="_blank">the ingredients that have Invisibility</a>. They can’t be grown in your garden, but it’s nice to have a few Invisibility potions on hand for emergencies</p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/juyOuTE.jpg"></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>ROLEPLAY NOTES</strong></em></p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr">One of our favourite things with this character was how we were able to play around with having almost no morality. You are a hunter, the apex predator and you will hunt, kill and consume whoever, whenever you like!</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr">With that being said, however, you need to form a guise when you are in town or are not hunting your targets. An Argonian hunter in simple furs and with a hunting bow? Nothing new there and nothing to see here!</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr">Become a beast at least once every few nights and send some souls to Sithis/Hircine to appease your lords.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr">Lakeview Manor will become your main alchemist home, but employ more… Secretive places for your main house (such as the Dawnstar Sanctuary!)</p> </li>
</ul>
<p align="center"><em><strong>RECOMMENDED MODS</strong></em></p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Sicarius: Masters of Death</strong> — Gorgeous, lore-friendly replacer for Dark Brotherhood gear.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shadow Scale Armor</strong> — Looks awesome and is obviously relevant, thematically.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Rough Leather Armor</strong> — One more alternative armor set for those who prefer subtlety.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Lakeview Extended</strong> — Greatly expands the functionality and influence of your holdings.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>More Plants and Recipes for Hearthfire</strong> — For the discerning alchemist.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>FAR</strong> or <strong>Drachis</strong> — Awesome body textures for Argonians.</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Heart of the Beast</strong> — For the sounds (I highly recommend the most aggressive option).</p> </li>
<li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr"><strong>HD Werewolves</strong> — Excellent fur, eyes, and teeth textures all in a single mod.</p> </li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><em>Cannot thank Tae and Skally enough for working with me on this one. It was great coming together with you two and making this happen. I couldn’t be more proud to have my name alongside yours. Team Taecum V will go down as one of the greats!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Credit to wert23 on DeviantArt for <a rel="nofollow" href="http://web.archive.org/web/20150828213117/http://bobkehl.deviantart.com/art/werewolf-212521324" target="_blank">the header art</a>!</em> </p></div>Character Build: The Undyinghttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-undying2017-04-27T18:44:37.000Z2017-04-27T18:44:37.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p>This is an old build from 2012, though overhauled dramatically in 2015. I thought the original was broken, though I've since learned it was not -- however, I still think the overhaul is a massive improvement. This character is immensely satisfying and brutally effective. I am sincerely proud to present the TRUE Undying!</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14377816,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377816,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377816?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><img class="align-center" src="http://i.imgur.com/5SrjPu2.png" alt="5SrjPu2.png" width="550" /></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><em>Although Altmer are blessed with long life beyond any other race, there are some among them who are unsatisfied with their life expectancy. Although vampires may live far longer still, there are some among them who are yet discontent. The Undying is such a being, an ancient creature who in his obsessive efforts to cheat death, took things ... too far. His experiments have left him a warped, twisted shell of the man he once was.</em></p>
<p align="center"><em>But despite their costs, the experiments were not unsuccessful. Indeed, those who have sought to defeat this creature — and there have been many — have all failed, to a man. Few have survived to speak of their encounters. And those lucky souls all agree: This is no human. It is a monster. A monster that cannot be slain by any means known to Man or Mer. It is ... The Undying.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Race</strong> » Altmer Vampire</p>
<p><strong>Stone</strong> » Atronach</p>
<p><strong>Attributes</strong> » 2 M : 2 H : 1 S</p>
<p><strong>Major Skills</strong> » Alteration, Alchemy, Archery</p>
<p><strong>Minor Skills</strong> » Two-handed, Restoration, Block, Sneak, Light Armor<sup><br />
</sup></p>
<p><strong>Shouts</strong> » Drain Vitality*, Marked for Death, Become Ethereal</p>
<p><strong>Passives</strong> » Blessing of Talos, Sinderion’s Serendipity, Seeker of Shadows, Force Without Effort</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14377855,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377855,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377855?profile=original" width="610" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">In addition to the above "core equipment", pick up <strong>Auriel's Bow</strong>, to blot out the sun when traveling by day. Note also that all gear is buffed by Necromage! This is especially awesome for the Ring of the Erudite, which buffs MagickaRate (the percentage of your total Magicka pool which is recovered each second) by +2.5 both in and out of combat ... it's normally 3.0 out of combat, and 0.99 in combat, for reference.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Also note that, for players who struggle to come across a Daedric Helmet of Peerless Alteration — it is a rare end-game item, after all — an <strong>Ebony Helmet of Extreme Alteration</strong> is a slightly easier alternative to locate. Or if you <em>really</em> don't want to rely on RNG, just grab an <strong>Apprentice Hood</strong>, and drink a <strong>Balustrade Brew</strong> (see the alchemy section below) to grant yourself enough Magicka to function properly. The Daedric Helmet is the ideal endgame option, but it is <em>not</em> mandatory for the build to function!</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong><span class="font-size-6">The Build</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The core principle of the Undying is that — shocker — he doesn't die. As such, defense is the primary focus. We can split this up into two basic archetypes:</p>
<ul style="text-align:justify;">
<li><em><strong>Physical</strong> <strong>Defense</strong></em>. In the endgame, the Undying uses a uniquely enduring form of Dragonhide to maintain 80% passive damage resistance for 10+ minutes at a time. (See the Special Moves section for details.) Furthermore, he is able to block with his greatsword, nullifying 85% of the damage that isn't passively resisted by Dragonhide. All told, only 3% of the original attack will breach his defenses when they are properly bolstered.</li>
<li><em><strong>Magical</strong> <strong>Defense</strong></em>. The Undying boasts 100% Spell Absorption via the Atronach stone and perk (buffed from 80% by Necromage), affording him complete and constant immunity from all magical effects.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14377820,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377820,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377820?profile=original" width="200" /></a>To further aid the motif of being unkillable, the Undying uses the Ebony Blade in close quarters. This can absorb up to 30 Health per hit at its maximum charge state — you can use the Ritual stone to resurrect and "re-kill" the same target multiple times to quickly sate this weapon's hunger. Or just kill ten different targets if you prefer.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">As he is a truly ancient vampire, the Undying spends little time in the sunlight. He prefers instead to remain underground during the day. In particular, Dwemer ruins fascinate this creature. For my purposes, I roleplayed him as being so old that he had been alive when the Dwemer disappeared, and that he had studied many of their ways in his attempts to prolong his own life.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Consequently, I spent a fair bit of time in Dwemer ruins, collecting books, bolts, oils, and various instruments. The bolts will of course be useful in general combat — if you ever run low, just give a couple to a follower and let them generate infinite copies by shooting at a target. The oils will be useful in alchemy — further experimentation to extend your lifespan!</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">When you must travel during daylight hours, Auriel's Bow with Bloodcursed Arrows can really make it less painful. It's a good idea to keep those in your inventory at all times once you obtain them, even if you won't be needing them for combat purposes.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Though the Undying is a defensive juggernaut, he is crafty and formidable on the attack as well. Of particular note to this character are the Ravage effects. As outlined in James's wonderful <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/glitches/forum/topics/an-argument-for-drain-vitality">Argument for Drain Vitality</a>, the Ravage Stamina and Ravage Magicka effects are tremendously useful. These effects cut the targeted attribute by the stated magnitude again and again for every second they last, and furthermore, they keep these attributes from regenerating.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Sparks fly when you combine a heavy-hitting Ravage potion (with the default 10 second duration) alongside the Drain Vitality shout. And rather than using the normal Drain Vitality shout, I highly recommend using the glitched version, which is added when you learn words of Marked for Death while the Dawnguard DLC is active. This glitched version has a 20 second duration, but only a 12 second cooldown — 9 seconds with the Blessing of Talos active. In other words, you can keep it active constantly!</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">There are several ways this can be used to make combat a breeze:</p>
<ul style="text-align:justify;">
<li><strong><em>Dragons</em></strong>. Use a Ravage Magicka poison to cut their Magicka by 60 points per second for 10 seconds, emptying their reserves in no time. Hit them with the glitched Drain Vitality to make sure their Magicka doesn't begin to regenerate — Dragons require Magicka in order to use their Shouts, so if you can keep their pool from refilling, they're effectively "muted". This allows you to clean them up with ranged attacks at no risk to your own life!</li>
<li><em><strong>Living</strong> <strong>Enemies</strong></em>. Use a Ravage Stamina poison to cut their Stamina by 60 points per second for 10 seconds, likewise emptying their reserves quickly. Again, use the glitched Drain Vitality to keep them from regenerating Stamina. This will keep them from sprinting. Furthermore, you can throw in a Slow effect to hobble them further still — with no Stamina, they cannot power attack either, so the Slow effect will not be broken nearly as often (if you didn't know, certain animations such as sprinting and power attacking will break the Slow effect). You can run circles around these slowed, hobbled foes, slashing them to bits or filling them with bolts as you please!</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align:justify;">For enemies against whom neither of these tactics are as effective, stealth is the best way to initiate combat. A bolt or two from the shadows can take out many targets, or at least tip the odds heavily in your favor.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14377862,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377862,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377862?profile=original" width="610" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong><span class="font-size-6">Potions</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Most of these ingredients may be grown with Hearthfire. There are a few exceptions, however.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Poison Bloom</strong> is only available in Darkfall Passage, and I've heard it cannot be picked more than once ... I'm using a mod that allows me to grow it, but if you play on console, <strong>River Betty</strong> may be used instead. It will actually make a stronger potion, but the problem then becomes allocating River Betty between the "Endurance Drain" poison and the "Tonic of Inner Strength" — you're going to need as many of the latter as you can get. You may have to swim through rivers and lakes whenever possible to keep your stock up.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Garlic</strong> is another ingredient that cannot be grown without mods. The best way to get it is from the kitchen at the Thalmor Embassy. There are 18 samples in the kitchen, which respawns every ten days. You can't normally return there, but thanks to a handy trick provided in <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/group/glitches/forum/topics/how-to-enter-the-thalmor-embassy-after-completing-diplomatic">this thread by Albino</a>, it can be done. Another good spot to tide you over is Boulderfall Cave, which has 16 samples in a basket. Take care <strong>not</strong> to kill the necromancer in there — if you do, it will take 30 days to respawn, compared to ten days if you keep him alive! Become Ethereal may be helpful to that end, or perhaps Ash Shell.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The third and final ingredient that cannot be grown is <strong>Dwarven Oil</strong>. You may use <strong>Jazbay Grapes</strong> instead, but keep in mind that you'll need those for the "Balustrade Brew" too. Personally, I found I was able to maintain a decent stock of Dwarven Oil from my frequent runs through Dwemer ruins, and I also fell back on Salt Pile and/or Jazbay Graps if I ever did run out.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">One final note: Thanks to Necromage and Seeker of Sorcery, in the endgame, you can use Muiri's Ring in conjunction with three items of "Peerless Alchemy" to get effectively +133% Fortify Alchemy. Throw in the additional 25% buff from Necromage, and your potions will reach heights you could never have imagined!</p>
<p style="text-align:right;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><strong><img class="align-left" src="http://ffxiv.gamerescape.com/w/images/b/bd/Spiritbond_Potion_Icon.png?width=72" alt="Spiritbond_Potion_Icon.png?width=72" width="70" />Endurance Drain</strong></p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align:left;"><em>Effects</em> » Ravage Stamina 70 pts/sec, Slow, Damage Health 105 pts</li>
<li><em>Ingredients</em> » Deathbell, Poison Bloom, Thistle Branch</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><img class="align-left" src="http://ffxiv.gamerescape.com/w/images/a/a9/Smelling_Salts_Icon.png?width=72" alt="Smelling_Salts_Icon.png?width=72" width="70" />Willpower Drain</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Effects</em> » Ravage Magicka 70 pts/sec, Damage Health 105 pts</li>
<li><em>Ingredients</em> » Deathbell, Lavender, Red Mountain Flower</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><img class="align-left" src="http://ffxiv.gamerescape.com/w/images/2/25/Potion_of_Intelligence_Icon.png?width=72" alt="Potion_of_Intelligence_Icon.png?width=72" width="70" />Tonic of Inner Strength</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Effects</em> » Fortify Alteration 175%, Restore Magicka 274 pts, Fortify Carry Weight +175</li>
<li><em>Ingredients</em> » Creep Cluster, Grass Pod, River Betty</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><img class="align-left" src="http://ffxiv.gamerescape.com/w/images/4/48/Potion_of_Mind_Icon.png?width=72" alt="Potion_of_Mind_Icon.png?width=72" width="70" />Essence of Undeath</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Effects</em> » Regenerate Health 218%, Regenerate Magicka 218% [7.5 minute duration!]</li>
<li><em>Ingredients</em> » Dwarven Oil, Garlic, Juniper Berries</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><img class="align-left" src="http://ffxiv.gamerescape.com/w/images/a/a3/Potion_of_Dexterity_Icon.png?width=72" alt="Potion_of_Dexterity_Icon.png?width=72" width="70" />Balustrade</strong><strong> Brew</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Effects</em> » Fortify Block 175%, Fortify Magicka +175 pts, Resist Magic 44%</li>
<li><em>Ingredients</em> » Bleeding Crown, Jazbay Grapes, Tundra Cotton</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-6"><strong>Suggested Mods</strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/26851/?"><em>More Plants and Recipes for Hearthfire</em></a></strong> — Lets you grow Poison Bloom and Garlic</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/34981/?"><em><strong>No More Glowing Edges</strong></em></a> — Makes flesh spells look better by removing the shiny effect</li>
<li><a href="http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/28899/?"><em><strong>Nightingale Prime</strong></em></a> — Makes the armor look extra badass! (I like the leather version.)</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong><a href="http://skyrimcalculator.com/410333">Suggested Level 35 Perk Selection</a></strong></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;" align="center"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830849849?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377824,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377824?profile=original" width="622" /></a><em>Level 50 perk selection. Click the image to embiggen.</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-6"><strong>Getting Started</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Since some of the key spells and perks will be unavailable for at least the first 30 levels or so, the build does play a bit differently in the early game. Grab the first Sneak perk very early on, as it'll be a major help in clearing dungeons. Also focus on your physical combat skills — Two-handed, and Light Armor. We'll be using <em>Waking Dreams</em> to clear the Light Armor perks down the road, once we hit 100 Alteration. But those will be a major help up until around level 30-35 or so!</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Join the Thieves Guild very early on for some good Light Armor — not to mention a gateway to three of the eventual endgame armor pieces — as well as an excuse to practice your stealth skills a bit, make some underground connections, and get a bit of gold. Don't hold off on the Main Quest for too long; it can be a good way to keep your combat skills up to snuff, and you will need the ability to Shout by the mid-game.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Consider training Archery with Faendal — he can take you up to level 50 for free; just pick him up as a follower, and take back the gold you pay him from his inventory after each training session. I did this in a few bursts of around 5-10 levels at a time, to keep my Archery from getting too far ahead. Sneak, Two-handed, and Alteration should all level pretty quickly. Alchemy mostly takes care of itself. Block and Restoration may lag behind a bit, so consider paying for training in these skills whenever you can. Spare potions can be sold to help finance skill training....</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Join the Dawnguard ASAP and grab as many bolts as you can carry. If you wait around after getting the first quest from Isran, you can get free bolts as he trains the other new recruit. Be sure to grab a crossbow from Durak outside, as well as a second one in the main entrance hall on a box. You will want to give one to a follower to farm bolts if you ever get low later on. (I didn't actually use a follower in general gameplay, personally. If you do want to, I'd recommend Serana as she is essential, a fellow vampire, a generator of bloodcursed arrows, and quite proficient in combat.)</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">You will not, of course, be siding with the Dawnguard. Join the Volkihar clan by level 10-15 or so, and go all in on that quest line, as it will yield several key items and shouts. Drain Vitality (glitched version) is the go-to shout for this build, but Marked for Death works very nicely with the Ebony Blade, and Become Ethereal is very useful for setting up Dragonhide in a pinch.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14377801,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377801,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377801?profile=original" width="610" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Later on, once your Health hits 250, dump all your points into Magicka for the next 6-8 levels: As noted earlier, you may have difficulty finding a Daedric Helmet of Peerless Alteration, and in the meantime, an Ebony Helmet of Extreme Alteration can be a worthy substitute. With the cost reduction from an Extreme enchantment, dual Dragonhide will require 504 Magicka to cost, so you will want to go heavy into Magicka around level 35-45 to allow you to cast it around the time you hit 100 Alteration.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Also as discussed previously, you may simply use an Apprentice Hood in tandem the "Balustrade Brew" custom potion (which fortifies Magicka) to dual-cast Dragonhide, without <em>any</em> Alteration cost reduction equipment. So even if you have the worst luck in the world, you can play this build and still look sharp!</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">In the endgame, my attributes were 507 M / 280 H / 240 S at level 50, with all relevant passives/enchantments. This is enough Magicka to dual-cast Dragonhide with either an Extreme or Peerless Alteration helm, or with the Balustrade Brew and Apprentice Hood.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14377912,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377912,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377912?profile=original" width="610" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-6"><strong>Ultimate Flesh Beast</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="https://wiki.guildwars2.com/images/a/a5/Soul_Grasp.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="https://wiki.guildwars2.com/images/a/a5/Soul_Grasp.png?profile=RESIZE_180x180" alt="Soul_Grasp.png?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="110" /></a><em><strong>Requires</strong></em> » Alteration Dual Casting, Shalidor's Insights: Alteration, Stability, Tonic of Inner Strength, Necromage, Vampirism, Dragonhide.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The Undying is able to extend Dragonhide from its base duration of 30 seconds, to beyond a staggering 10 minutes at a time. If you ever need to cast the spell in a pinch, Become Ethereal is a good way to pull it off (it has a casting time of around 4-5 seconds) without taking any damage.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Throw in the "Essence of Undeath" for even more oomph!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Uu5qclFaRJ8" width="800" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>Thanks to Curse and the SkyForge TV channel for this excellent demo of the build in action!</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible. Too many people to name without forgetting someone, but a few folks who really stand out include Albino, Brewmaster, Vazgen, and Raidriar. Thanks to everyone else who commented in the thread with advice/feedback, and to everyone on Skype who offered the same.</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>Thanks to James, Noodles, and Mr. C. N. Dying, each of whom contributed mechanical knowledge that helped to shape this build.</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>Thanks also to Elysium, who offered some assistance on the build, and whose presentation style I shamelessly ripped off (especially with regard to the equipment spread).</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>The header image is called "Shadow Atronist", made by deviantartist Tamerr. If you like it, show your appreciation by supporting the artist on his page!</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>The perk spread image is "Falconer" by Cristi B. Thanks to Mason for editing that image to suit the perk spread!</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/profile/Teccam" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377885,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14377885?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></p></div>Character Build: The Loup-Garouhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-loup-garou2017-04-24T18:16:28.000Z2017-04-24T18:16:28.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align:justify;">My first ever build -- and still one of my favorites! The Loup-Garou was one of the first werewolf builds to grace the group, and the very first to capitalize on many treats granted by the new (at the time) Dawnguard DLC. This character offers a perfect balance between all three combat umbrellas, with some of the most enjoyable aspects of lycanthropy thrown in for good measure. Lots of synergy between beast form and human form too.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14373025,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14373025,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14373025?profile=original" width="450" /></a><em style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">"Some may call this a curse. Me, I call it a blessing."</em></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:7px;">THE LOUP-GAROU</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>The Loup-Garou is a human who can change into a wolf. While in his wolf form, he is as aware and intelligent as he is in his human form. These creatures are the most fearsome and terrifying of all known werewolves. They can change at their own will, as well as by the command of a full moon.</em></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Race</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Nord Werewolf</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Stone</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» The Steed</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Key Shouts</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Become Ethereal, Aura Whisper, Elemental Fury, Unrelenting Force</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Attribute Distribution</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» <span style="color:#993300;">2 Health</span> / <span style="color:#333399;">1 Magicka</span> / <span style="color:#008000;">1 Stamina</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Essential Quests</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Ill Met by Moonlight, Companions quest line, The Taste of Death</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Major Skills</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/e/e6/SkillIllusion.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/e/e6/SkillIllusion.png?width=80" alt="SkillIllusion.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>Illusion</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Aspect of Terror is amazing. It increases the power of all Fear effects, including Howl of Terror. More importantly, this perk affects Fire Damage effects, which are essential. Quiet Casting allows you to remain hidden while using spells, shouts, and howls. And you'll use Muffle from day one until the endgame.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/b/b5/SkillOnehanded.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/b/b5/SkillOnehanded.png?width=80" alt="SkillOnehanded.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>One-handed</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Keep a tempered Nord Hero war axe or sword in your right hand at all times. They are fast, dependable, and consistent with the Wolf theme. Even better, they only require Steel Smithing for the tempering bonus.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/b/ba/SkillAlteration.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/b/ba/SkillAlteration.png?width=80" alt="SkillAlteration.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>Alteration</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» It may seem redundant to pick up both Heavy Armor and Alteration, but let me explain: Alteration will provide some very useful perks, and it is extremely beneficial for transformations. The Magic Resistance perks apply in Beast Form, giving 30% constant Magic Resistance. In the endgame, Paralyze is a nice ace to keep in your back pocket.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830849066?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14372993,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14372993?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Minor Skills</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/8/82/SkillSneak.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/8/82/SkillSneak.png?width=80" alt="SkillSneak.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>Sneak</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Predatory cunning requires an advanced mastery of stealth and patience. Use Sneak to avoid being overwhelmed by groups of enemies, and to always get the first strike. Also simulates agility and dexterity, both in and out of combat.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/f/f4/SkillDestruction.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/f/f4/SkillDestruction.png?width=80" alt="SkillDestruction.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>Destruction</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Flame Cloak carries over into Beast Form, and can be <strong>very</strong> helpful in longer battles. With Augmented Flames 2/2 and Aspect of Terror, it does 22 damage per second, plus ~20% burning damage. <em>Dragonborn</em> adds the Ignite spell, which is absolutely lethal when combined with Aspect of Terror.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/7/76/SkillRestoration.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/7/76/SkillRestoration.png?width=80" alt="SkillRestoration.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>Restoration</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» Without Alchemy, you'll find Restoration useful between battles. It also offers some very helpful perks, and even some offensive spells that prove useful against draugr. You don't need to invest much into this skill though, just use it to heal as needed.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/b/b7/SkillHeavyarmor.png" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://images.wikia.com/elderscrolls/images/b/b7/SkillHeavyarmor.png?width=80" alt="SkillHeavyarmor.png?width=80" width="80" /></a>Heavy Armor</strong></span> <span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">» The Steed & Muffle combination cancels out any of Heavy Armor's stealth-related, movement-related, and weight-related drawbacks from the onset, making this skill incredibly viable for the build.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">The Build</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14372998,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14372998,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14372998?profile=original" width="600" /></a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">A nice armor combo for the early game is Banded Iron Armor, Iron Boots, Iron Gauntlets, and Novice Hood. Wolf Armor also goes well with the Adept Hood, and benefits from Steel Smithing; that can make for a good set to use before you are able to acquire Nordic Carved. The <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em>Ring of Namira</em></strong></span> should be the primary ring in human form, and the <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em>Ring of Bloodlust</em></strong></span> should be used before transforming -- only use the <span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em>Ring of Hircine</em></strong></span> when you need to transform multiple times in a single day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14373056,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14373056,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14373056?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Gameplay: Beast Form</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The Loup-Garou has been cursed with the most severe form of lycanthropy imaginable, but he has learned to use this curse to his advantage. Prioritize picking up all four levels of Bestial Strength, as well as the entire right branch of the werewolf perk tree. I recommend starting with the Totem of Brotherhood path, but the Totem of Fear is also an effective option, especially once you pick up Aspect of Terror.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">At level 46+, fully perked, the Loup-Garou dishes out an impressive 160 damage per swipe in Beast Form — 240 if wearing the Ring of Bloodlust — and that’s before accounting for bonus damage from power attacks. Furthermore, you can gorge yourself on most enemies to quickly recover large amounts of Health and Stamina after each kill.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Werewolves have massively increased Stamina and Stamina Regen. With your directional power attacks, you can literally hurl around bears, saber cats, and even giants, as if they were sacks of flour. It's honestly the most satisfying thing in the game, in my opinion. You can sprint for miles without stopping, and when you do need to rest, your Stamina fills back up in seconds.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14373060,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14373060,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14373060?profile=original" width="256" /></a>In Beast Form in the endgame, the Loup-Garou gets 45% passive Magic Resistance thanks to the Blessing of Mara (<span style="color:#808080;">15%</span>) and Magic Resistance perks (<span style="color:#808080;">30%</span>). If you dual-cast Ebonyflesh just before changing form, you go into Beast Form with 600 AR (<span style="color:#808080;">400 by default for werewolves at level 46+, and 200 more for dual Ebonyflesh with 1/3 Mage Armor</span>). That 600 AR is good for 72% damage resistance in Beast Form for 3 minutes, 18 seconds.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">After the spell wears off, you’re still extremely well protected at 400 AR (<span style="color:#808080;">48% damage resistance</span>), though of course, with the Ring of Hircine in your possession, you can always just exit Beast Form, recast Ebonyflesh and/or Flame Cloak, re-equip the ring, and repeat.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Gameplay: Human Form</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">With The Steed stone, the Loup-Garou can move about quickly and silently in heavy armor. In terms of roleplaying, credit this to the passive benefits of his curse: superhuman dexterity, endurance, and agility. The curse also comes with enhanced predatory instincts, which teach the Loup-Garou to be ever wary of the danger around him. He enters each room in complete silence, taking stock of any enemies and obstacles — and often dispatching them — well before they ever become a threat.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Muffle should be the default left hand spell in dungeons, with Flame Cloak and Ignite as your most used backups. In combat, tempered armor combined with Ebonyflesh (<span style="color:#808080;">+100 AR, since Mage Armor doesn't apply</span>) will be enough to keep you very well protected.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Silent Roll is a great mark of agility, and as demonstrated in Henson’s Ka Po’ Tun, its damage bonus can stack with Critical Charge for a super-dexterous, super-powerful surprise attack — a true predator's pounce.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830850312?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14373034,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="14373034?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a><em style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Level 50 perk selection. Click the image for full resolution.</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><span style="color:#fbfbfb;letter-spacing:4px;">Special Moves</span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://i.imgur.com/3vvbDu0.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://i.imgur.com/3vvbDu0.jpg?width=125" alt="3vvbDu0.jpg?width=125" width="125" /></a>Impervious Shape Shifter</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Change to beast form with complete invulnerability, and embrace your cursed form with an extra coat of supercharged magical protection, as well as a fiery aura to set your foes ablaze. The Ring of Hircine will allow you to use this power an unlimited amount of times per day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em>Requires</em></strong></span> » Become Ethereal, Ebonyflesh, Flame Cloak, Beast Form</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="http://www.poxbrothers.info/new_shop/images/runes/kanen_darkrunner_270x310.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="http://i.imgur.com/U86x6lT.jpg?width=125" alt="U86x6lT.jpg?width=125" width="125" /></a></strong></span><strong style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;">Midnight Prowler</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Enter Beast Form undetected, and strike an enemy from the shadows with all the strength your curse will allow. Activate the Shadowcloak, then Beast Form, and then enter sneak mode before the transformation begins. The Shadowcloak’s effect will wear off immediately after transforming.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family:'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><em>Requires</em></strong></span> » Ring of Bloodlust, Silence, Shadowcloak of Nocturnal, Beast Form</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://theskyforge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/list/tag/teccam" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830848901?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" alt="830848901?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" /></a></p></div>Character Build: The Crystallurgisthttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/groups/tes-character-building/forum/character-build-the-crystallurgist2017-04-21T02:58:51.000Z2017-04-21T02:58:51.000ZTeccamhttps://TheSkyForge.ning.com/members/Teccam<div><p style="text-align: justify;">I've always thought it would be cool to design a new magic system for a TES character, but the Elder Scrolls games are very limited in how they allow mechanics to be tweaked or combined. Crystallurgy is my attempt to draw upon several vanilla gameplay mechanics in conjunction with one another to simulate a different type of magic.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This started out as a <em>very</em> different concept, and indeed, over the months, the build has changed so much that I'm not sure <em>any</em> of the original concept is still intact -- it's a proverbial ship of Theseus. It's a bit surreal to finally have a presentable build out of endless pages of concepts, but I'm very proud of how far along this build ended up coming.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Just for clarity's sake: Talk of "crystals" herein will refer either to <em><strong>potions</strong></em> (colored crystals) or else <em><strong>soul gems</strong></em>. For roleplaying purposes, I viewed these as being the crystals embedded within the equipment presented below. All colored crystals (i.e., potions) referenced herein will be listed in the "Crystals of Vitality" alchemy section.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366471,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366471,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 10px #02BF47; letter-spacing: 7px;">THE CRYSTALLURGIST</span></span></p>
<p align="center"><em>Crystallurgists are mysterious artificers who seek to gain an understanding of the relationship between souls, gems, and magical energy. Ancient techniques passed down through the reclusive guild grant Crystallurgists the unique ability to harness latent energy from souls and spells. This energy can be converted into pure Magicka, or stored in focused crystals for later use.</em></p>
<p align="center"><em>Very few political and social circles in Tamriel understand the subtle nature of soul artifice. Most would view it as an offshoot of Necromancy -- and in some ways, perhaps it is. To protect themselves from persecution, Crystallurgists must obtain proficiency with all of the tools at their disposal, gaining not only a theoretical aptitude but a practical one as well.</em></p>
<p align="center"><em>A master Crystallurgist is capable of using soul energy to incinerate her foes, bolster her own defenses, restore her own magical energy, call forth warriors of spiritual energy, and control entire armies. Furthermore, she can create truly godlike weapons through secret arcane techniques.</em></p>
<p align="center"><em>In short, the Crystallurgist is a force capable of dismantling an entire kingdom single-handedly.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Race</strong></span> » Altmer</p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Stone</strong></span> » The Lord + Atronach (Aetherial Crown)</p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Major Skills</strong></span> » Destruction, Alchemy, Conjuration</p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Minor Skills</strong></span> » Alteration, Light Armor, One-handed, Illusion</p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Attributes</strong></span> » 2 <span style="color: #993300;">Health</span> / 1 <span style="color: #333399;">Magicka</span> / 0 <span style="color: #008000;">Stamina</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Shouts</strong></span> » Soul Tear, Frost Breath, Marked for Death, Fire Breath</p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Abilities</strong></span> » Seeker of Shadows, Dragonborn Frost, The Fire Within</p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Key Quests</strong></span> » Lost to the Ages, The Sallow Regent, Forbidden Legend, The Black Star</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366437,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366437,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Useful enchantments include fortifying relevant magic schools -- Destruction, Conjuration, or Alteration. Other helpful enchantments include Regenerate Magicka or Health, as well as Fortify One-handed or Light Armor. Alternatively, simply use unenchanted gear with a decent temper bonus via a custom Fortify Smithing potion (and while you're at it, throw in any Fortify Smithing gear you happen to come across). Northwatch Keep is a pretty good spot for finding unenchanted glass armor starting at level 36 -- before then, Elven gear will suffice.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Crystallurgist is able to fuse crystals into her weapons, unlocking their full potential <em>without investing in the Enchanting skill</em>. At lower levels, she uses a custom Elven War Axe called <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; text-shadow: #02bf47 0px 0px 10px;"><strong><em>Asulon</em></strong></span>, enchanted with 10-15 Fire Damage and Soul Trap.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the endgame, the Crystallurgist favors <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; text-shadow: #02bf47 0px 0px 10px;"><strong><em>Ebion</em></strong></span>, a Stalhrim War Axe with Chaos Damage. By around level 35-40, you should be roughly level 50 Enchanting -- purely from disenchanting generic apparel and constantly recharging your weapon. With Seeker of Sorcery, Augmented Flames/Frost, and an Enchanter's Elixir, I had +33 Chaos Damage -- an <em>average</em> of 50 elemental damage per hit. And again, that's <em>without</em> ever perking or grinding the Enchanting skill!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Once you craft your endgame Ebion, be sure to open up <em>The Sallow Regent</em> and switch back over to Seeker of Shadows for optimal Alchemy!</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 10px #02BF47; letter-spacing: 3px;">Crystals of Vitality</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Here is a list of useful "crystals" (i.e., potions) for the build. In partricular, take note of the first two: the <strong><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">White</span> <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Crystal</span></em></strong> and the <em><strong><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Red</span></strong> <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Crystal</strong></span></em> -- these will have a <em>dramatic</em> impact on gameplay.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I don't see many Alchemy builds that take advantage of the Seeker of Shadows power. Which is a shame, because it can make a real difference: It will make +82% Fortify Alchemy, easily obtainable through generic/pre-enchanted apparel, behave exactly like +100% Fortify Alchemy. I used a combination of Muiri's Ring, Bracers of Major Alchemy, and a Circlet and Necklace of Peerless Alchemy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As is my custom, all ingredients listed here may be cultivated via the Hearthfire garden and greenhouse, or the fish hatchery if you build in Hjaalmarch.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><span class="font-size-3">White Crystal<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}14366439,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366439,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="64" /></a></span></strong></span></p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Effects</em></span> » Fortify Restoration 120%</p>
<p>∙ <em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Ingredients</span></em> » Abecean Longfin, Cyrodiilic Spadetail</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><span class="font-size-3">Red Crystal<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830852313?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366533,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="64" /></a></span></strong></span></p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Effects</em></span> » Fortify Destruction 150% & Fortify Health 120pts</p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Ingredients</em></span> » Glowing Mushroom, Nightshade, Wheat</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;">Violet Crystal<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830852356?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366536,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="64" /></a></span></strong></p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Effects</em></span> » Fortify Illusion 120% + Fortify Stamina Regen 150%</p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Ingredients</em></span> » Mora Tapinella, Scaly Pholiota</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Blue Crystal<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830852406?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366476,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="64" /></a></strong></span></p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Effects</em></span> » Fortify Magicka 120pts & Restore Magicka 188pts</p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Ingredients</em></span> » Jazbay Grapes, Mora Tapinella, Red Mountain Flower</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Amber Crystal<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830852557?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366442,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="64" /></a></strong></span></p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Effects</em></span> » Fortify Health 120pts & Restore Health 188pts</p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Ingredients</em></span> » Blue Mountain Flower, Wheat</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 10px #02BF47; letter-spacing: 3px;">The Build</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Combat with this build is quite dynamic. At the lower levels, I tended to take a rather methodical approach, surveying situations and ascertaining how best to use my more limited skill set. But in the endgame, combat becomes a blur of high-powered spells and Shouts, working together to wreak havoc on enemies of every shape and size.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A staple of the Crystallurgist's skill set is the ability to manipulate energy through her energy crystals, both actively and passively, as outlined below:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="text-shadow: #02bf47 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>End-Negative Crystallurgy</strong></span></em> is fairly low maintenance, best suited to simple situations. Essentially, it refers to activities that <em>consume</em> stored energy, and convert it into useful qualities. Some examples include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Restoring Magicka passively/constantly</li>
<li>Temporarily manifesting a corporeal life force, a Wrathman of the Soul Cairn, to aid you in battle</li>
<li>Feeding energy into the main axe, Ebion</li>
<li>Augmenting the power of Ebion and destructive spells</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; text-shadow: 0px 0px 10px #02BF47;"><strong>End-Positive Crystallurgy</strong></span></em> is a bit more high-risk, high-reward. This refers to activities that <em>refuel</em> your crystals with new energy taken from your enemies (magical forces, and life force). Such actions include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Absorbing <em>all</em> incoming spells</li>
<li>Drawing energy via Asulon and/or a Soul Trap spell</li>
<li>Drawing energy to augment her Magicka pool</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Crystallurgist can easily swap between end-positive and end-negative Crystallurgy at will, simply by combining a <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>White Crystal</strong></em></span> with the Aetherial Crown and Asulon. This initiates a fully end-postive approach. These two methodologies complement each other very well, allowing the core of the build to remain unchanged while providing decidedly different play styles, with different strengths and weaknesses. It really keeps gameplay fresh deep into the endgame.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">When fully invested in an end-positive loadout, the Crystallurgist is unable to passively refuel her Magicka reserves <em>at all</em>. However, a clever artificer is always prepared: <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Blue Crystals</strong></em></span> will be very handy when adopting an all-out end-positive approach. And enemy magic users will unwittingly restore your crystals for you as well!</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830852599?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366539,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 10px #02BF47; letter-spacing: 3px;">Of Ice & Fire</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I've already talked about Ebion, the Crystallurgist's elite endgame weapon. To make this weapon even more impressive, the Crystallurgist can draw energy from a <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Red Crystal</strong></em></span> to briefly push its enchantment magnitude from +33 up to +83!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This same <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Red Crystal</strong></em></span> is one of the staples of the build's combat. Use these liberally! In addition to their generous boost to Ebion's power, they also provide a glorious effect when coupled with <em>Flame Cloak</em>: They affect both the <em>damage</em> and the <em>range</em>, taking a dual-casted cloak up to a whopping 45 DPS, with a wide enough radius to fill the entire entry hall at Fort Dawnguard. It's basically like a movable Master level AOE spell, with a shorter casting time and lower Magicka cost. This is easily one of the coolest combos in the game.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Red Crystal</strong></em></span> also affects other spells, of course. In particular, key applications include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Dual-cast Flames = 81 damage/second</li>
<li>Dual-cast Frostbite = 66 damage/second</li>
<li>Single-cast Fireball = 165 damage</li>
<li>Single-cast Ice Storm = 150 damage</li>
<li>Dual-cast Incinerate = 510 damage + stagger</li>
<li>Dual-cast Icy Spear = 495 damage + stagger</li>
<li>Dual-cast Frost Cloak = 30 damage/second (<em>with just as large of a radius as Flame Cloak!</em>)</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I tended to use Fire spells more than Frost, since <em>Aspect of Terror</em> adds that extra +15 damage in all cases. But Frost spells are good to have on hand in case something resists Fire, or if you need to slow enemies down. And as you get stronger, the difference in magnitude between Frost and Fire becomes less significant.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In terms of Shouts, it's quite the opposite: <em>Fire Breath</em> doesn't seem to benefit from the <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Red Crystal</strong></em></span> meaning that Fireball is actually nearly as damaging as Fire Breath. And Incinerate blows Fire Breath out of the water....</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">One the other hand, <em>Frost Breath</em> does benefit from the Red Crystal, and <em>Dragonborn Frost</em> allows you to instantly take an enemy out of the equation without wasting Magicka or casting time on Paralysis. This can be quite handy!</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 10px #02BF47; letter-spacing: 3px;">On Souls, Summons, and Seduction</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830853795?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366445,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" /></a><em>Soul Tear</em> deals an instant 300 damage, even to enemies such as dragons that resist the reanimate effect. This makes it more practical than either elemental Shout when it comes to damaging boss type enemies -- especially since many of them would resist the ice paralysis from Dragonborn Frost.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Soul Tear is also useful for its reanimation effect. I especially like using it on enemies that normally resist reanimation, such as giants and mammoths. It benefits from Necromancy and Dark Souls too, so your Soul Torn enemies are reinforced, and last longer than the Shout's cooldown time in the endgame!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In addition to Soul Tear, the Crystallurgist uses her crystal reserves to summon corporeal energy in the form of Soul Cairn summons, culminating in the <em>Wrathman</em>. These are effective allies, and they have a low Magicka cost to conjure. Note that they must be summoned <em>prior to equipping the Aetherial Crown</em> if you wish to employ fully end-positive Crystallurgy in battle: Once you equip the Aetherial Crown (after activating a <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>White Crystal</strong></em></span>) you will be unable to summon anything!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Illusion is decidedly a minor skill here, but even with the Apprentice spells, the Crystallurgist can do a lot: With a <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Violet Crystal</strong></em></span> and the perks listed, she can Calm humans up to level 37, and creatures up to level 35!  You can, of course, go up to the Expert spells and/or take the Dual Casting perk to get more out of Illusion, but I found this to be unnecessary. I mostly used Illusion only in emergencies, or when I wanted to toy with my enemies before I finished them off.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the early levels, Elven gear and Asulon will complement lower level spells and more pedestrian potions just fine. Even with lower Alchemy and Novice/Apprentice spells, you can get some serious power.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I suggest starting the Dawnguard quest line as early as possible, because you'll want that <em>Ring of the Erudite</em> and those Soul Cairn summons. I personally ditched that quest line and cured my vampirism A.S.A.P. after exiting the Soul Cairn. As for skills, definitely keep Alchemy ahead of everything else; maxed Alchemy will make everything else easier for you.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Being able to switch between 0% Spell Absorption and 100% Spell Absorption on the fly is truly awesome -- especially for a summoner. With the +110 Magicka and complete immunity to magic, the Aetherial Crown's active Crystallurgy approach may sound like the ideal method. However, I played about 2/3 of the time without the crown on once I'd obtained it -- passive regeneration is quite nice in its own right, and the glass helm provides some more AR in addition to activating a couple of Light Armor perks.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><em style="font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/830855069?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14366479,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" /></a>Level 50 perk selection</em></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With all enchantments in effect, you should be able to get to around 450-500 Health and Magicka with an end-negative approach (without the Aetherial Crown). I found a pair of Glass Boots with +60 Stamina as well, so I just ticked that up to 200 for the nice round number (including the 30 from the Gauldur Amulet as well). There's no real need to invest in Stamina though.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Magicka buffs include the Altmer Highborn (+50), Ring of the Erudite (+100), and Gauldur Amulet (+30). With the buffed Aetherial Crown in an end-positive state, you gain a further +110 Magicka. And you can craft a <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em><strong>Blue Crystal</strong></em></span> to add a further +120, for a total of +410 to the base 100 Magicka (in addition to approximately +10 Magicka every three levels). When not wearing the Aetherial Crown, you lose the 110 Magicka, but your Regen will be quite solid thanks to the Ring of the Erudite. I also had +80% Regen from my helmet for an extra kick.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="color: #ffffff; text-shadow: 1px 1px 0px #000000, 1px -1px 0px #000000, -1px 1px 0px #000000, -1px -1px 0px #000000, 0px 0px 10px #02BF47; letter-spacing: 3px;">Special Maneuvers</span></span></p>
<p><strong><span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}2226277907,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2226277907,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" width="100" /></a>Ring of Fire</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>∙ Requires</em></span> » Flame Cloak, Dual Casting, Aspect of Terror, Red Crystal</p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>∙ Description</em></span> <span style="text-align: justify;">» The Crystallurgist creates a sphere of hellfire around herself, filling entire rooms with blinding infernos that dish out a staggering 45 damage per second to all enemies within a range that is greatly enhanced by both the crystal and the dual-casting perk.</span></p>
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<p><span class="font-size-3"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}2226278462,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}2226278462,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}" width="100" /></a>Voice of </strong></span><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><strong>Deceit</strong></span></span></p>
<p>∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Requires</em></span> » Marked for Death, Calm</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">∙ <span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Description</em></span> » The Crystallurgist takes an enemy out of the equation, and while she focuses on a different opponent, her next target grows ever weaker as he basks in sublime ignorance of his impending demise.</p>
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<p align="center"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>Thanks to Matt Feeney, Zach, and Mason for input and advice!</em></span></p>
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<p align="center"><span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><em>For a glimpse of Crystallurgy in action, check out my short story: <a href="http://theskyrimblog.ning.com/profiles/blogs/night-on-the-border-or-the-crystallurgist" target="_self">"Night on the Border, or: The Crystallurgist"</a></em></span></p>
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<p><a href="http://theskyforge.ning.com/tes-groups/skyrim-character-building/forum/list/tag/teccam" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}14377896,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" /></a></p>
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