Soulknife in RL - Downloaded from the Wizards Community, all coding removed by Solauren

Soulknife in RL

Post/Author/DateTime Post
#1
zombiegleemax
Apr 23, 2005 16:10:43 I have wanted to try playing a soulknife for a while now and my DM told me we are going to be starting a Ravenloft campaign. Do you think its a good idea to play a soulknife in RL? I would like to try one but I am leary due to the prejudcices and fears of the people. Psychic swords springing from my hands arent a normal occurance. Any thoughts? Any recommendations on how to disguise my powers if I do end up playing one?
#2
Mortepierre
Apr 23, 2005 16:23:24 Hmm.. if I am not mistaken, the RL DMG mentioned that Soulknives were exceedingly uncommon. About the only example given was the corrupt yogis of Sri Raji used by clerics of Kali as 'super-assassins'.

Of course, this was back in 3.0E...
#3
coan
Apr 23, 2005 21:10:22 The RL DMG was made under 3.5Ed rules.

But just because something is uncommon doesn't mean it cannot be played. I've always seen it as if someone really wants to play a certain character and can back it up with solid rping and back story its ok.
#4
Mortepierre
Apr 24, 2005 3:47:50 I didn't say he couldn't. I only offered a 'canon' info. And, FYI, the RL DMG was a 3.0E accessory that just happened to be released at the time the 3.5E came out. I know S&S advertised it as 'compatible' but it remains 3.0E.

It wasn't exactly a lie as there is more text than rules in it but still...

The psi section especially is 3.0E for sure.
#5
jesterjeff
Apr 24, 2005 9:39:06 Hells, go for it.
Use Mortepierre's reference to a kali cult,or another 'odd mystic religious sect.' You're weapons of choice will make you stand out, your backstory should at least explain you away. Even if it doesn't make you less disturbing as a character. hells, I'd roleplay the sect's principles. Odd manner of dress, Make yourself stand out as the outsider, the alien. It'll add to the game. Even more so if he runs MRD.
#6
zombiegleemax
Apr 24, 2005 11:52:39 But how do I avoid getting linched by the townfolk for witchcraft? The obvious answer is dont use the blades around townsfolk but are there any other ideas?
#7
Mortepierre
Apr 24, 2005 12:02:02 Well, the problem is that - with the exception of the domain based on the DS setting (assuming it's still out there in the mists) - there are no RL domain where common folks wouldn't freak out if the new stranger in town suddenly sprang his own version of a light-saber!

On the other hand.. I just thought of something. There could be another way for you to begin in the Core rather than in some exotic island of terror. Have a Barovian expatriate (specifically, one coming from Immol) settle in Falkovnia. In a land where only the military have the right to bear a weapon, being a Soulknife would be the ultimate advantage.. and probably endear you to the local anti-Drakov guerrilla!

Why Immol? Because that's where the Bluetspur expatriates are and if someone has access to psionic in the Core, it's them.
#8
martinveasey
Apr 26, 2005 14:58:24
Well, the problem is that - with the exception of the domain based on the DS setting (assuming it's still out there in the mists) - there are no RL domain where common folks wouldn't freak out if the new stranger in town suddenly sprang his own version of a light-saber!

I guess I'm not seeing this right, but the whole point of the soul knife / assassin thing is that no-one's supposed to [BOLD]see[/BOLD] the knife until it's too late (if even then). You wander up, sneak attack and are gone.

I don't really hold with the idea of the flashy, flamboyant assassin, more the skulk in the shadows ...
#9
martinveasey
Apr 26, 2005 15:00:03
Well, the problem is that - with the exception of the domain based on the DS setting (assuming it's still out there in the mists) - there are no RL domain where common folks wouldn't freak out if the new stranger in town suddenly sprang his own version of a light-saber!

I guess I'm not seeing this right, but the whole point of the soul knife / assassin thing is that no-one's supposed to see the knife until it's too late (if even then). You wander up, sneak attack and are gone.

I don't really hold with the idea of the flashy, flamboyant assassin, more the skulk in the shadows ...
#10
zombiegleemax
Apr 26, 2005 16:35:15 So what Im getting is that soulknifes do exist, but if Im starting in lets say Darkon or Mordant, not to bother with playing one if I ever want to use my blades.
#11
gonzoron
Apr 27, 2005 10:25:42 If you ever want to use your blades IN PUBLIC. I can imagine it working fine if you have some backup weapon for public display. How often do you really fight with a crowd of villagers gawking? Not that often compared to fighting in dark alleys or lonely cottages, or ancient tombs, etc. You're not going to be wandering around town brandishing them, right? right? ..... right?

And there would be some interesting roleplay if ever an NPC or two stumbles on you. Convincing them you're the lesser of two evils would be fun. Stock up on Bluff Ranks. Or multiclass into something that gives you access to charm or memory modifying powers or spells.

I don't see it as being any more or less difficult than a sorceror. Try to be subtle, don't flaunt it, and you'll be fine.
#12
zombiegleemax
Apr 27, 2005 10:59:58 Well basically the way I pictured it was that local bandits or ruffians attack us and I draw the blades only to have them either run away in fear and start the rumours or attack me because Im a tool of evil. Or else we are trying to free villagers from some evil bad thing and I have to use the blades to fight and the villagers see my evil blades. I guess the one option is to carry a normal blade and use that around anyone I dont plan on killing.
#13
zombiegleemax
Apr 27, 2005 11:15:42 Hi -if it helps - ive played a soulknife before in RL. He met an unhappy end, but dont they always- however when I played him -it was along the lines of a dark and grimm sensei knight (based on the 40k book - lost and the dammed).

To sum up if you do not own the rather excellent and expensive out of print tome. The sensei are being tricked into a final battle by there masters the illumanti. They are the offsping of the emperor and are therefore faster, quicker and more psychically powered than normal humans. In order to prepare for the final battle they train and lead small war bands in secret.

You can see therefore how easily this lent itself to a soulknife character in ravenloft - much like a darker version of the Jedi knights. long dark grey cloak and hood, avoidance of open confrontation at all costs.., large crossbow over shoulder.

May give you an idea or two anyway
#14
zombiegleemax
Apr 30, 2005 4:09:29 If you want to play a soulknife for the cool powers and get around limited magic you're in the wrong setting. If you want to play a troubled character whom has disturbing storries attached to him wherever he goes you could be on to something. For some reason I'm drawn to the opening of Desperado where everytime you're about to see Antonio Banderas' face it slips furhter into some new shadow. That's your PC, mysterious and imperfectly understood.

Surely there are few if any others like you. For those in the "know" your weapon will eventually become the stuff of legend. No doubt Azalin, Hazik, Malken or Vlad will eventually send thieves to steal it from from you. Try to explain to them that it doesn't really come away without you.

It doesn't have to look like a lightsaber. What if you "draw" it out of any near-by shadows and it looks inky-black? Or what if it looks like a translucent "ghost sword" that slowly materializes but is always never fully "in reality". Its origins don't even have to be "psionic" - Don't you know your great-grandfather fought the good fight before Van Richten, was spiritually trapped in the mist, and now his spirit can still be manifested (as a sword) by those of his blood who know how to call...

Lots of possibilities. Especially when you move out of the box. How the natives react is up to the DM and the campaign but shouldn't be a limiting factor. Don't expect many bad guys to run from you though. Creepy as it is its still just a sword. Generally villagers who know about your "demon haunted blade" won't start out embracing you (you will be an outsider) but you ought to have an easier time of it than your typical Caliban buddy. Go for it.

-Eric Gorman

Well basically the way I pictured it was that local bandits or ruffians attack us and I draw the blades only to have them either run away in fear and start the rumours or attack me because Im a tool of evil. Or else we are trying to free villagers from some evil bad thing and I have to use the blades to fight and the villagers see my evil blades. I guess the one option is to carry a normal blade and use that around anyone I dont plan on killing.

Post/Author/DateTime	Post
#1 zombiegleemax Apr 23, 2005 16:10:43	I have wanted to try playing a soulknife for a while now and my DM told me we are going to be starting a Ravenloft campaign. Do you think its a good idea to play a soulknife in RL? I would like to try one but I am leary due to the prejudcices and fears of the people. Psychic swords springing from my hands arent a normal occurance. Any thoughts? Any recommendations on how to disguise my powers if I do end up playing one?
#2 Mortepierre Apr 23, 2005 16:23:24	Hmm.. if I am not mistaken, the RL DMG mentioned that Soulknives were exceedingly uncommon. About the only example given was the corrupt yogis of Sri Raji used by clerics of Kali as 'super-assassins'. Of course, this was back in 3.0E...
#3 coan Apr 23, 2005 21:10:22	The RL DMG was made under 3.5Ed rules. But just because something is uncommon doesn't mean it cannot be played. I've always seen it as if someone really wants to play a certain character and can back it up with solid rping and back story its ok.
#4 Mortepierre Apr 24, 2005 3:47:50	I didn't say he couldn't. I only offered a 'canon' info. And, FYI, the RL DMG was a 3.0E accessory that just happened to be released at the time the 3.5E came out. I know S&S advertised it as 'compatible' but it remains 3.0E. It wasn't exactly a lie as there is more text than rules in it but still... The psi section especially is 3.0E for sure.
#5 jesterjeff Apr 24, 2005 9:39:06	Hells, go for it. Use Mortepierre's reference to a kali cult,or another 'odd mystic religious sect.' You're weapons of choice will make you stand out, your backstory should at least explain you away. Even if it doesn't make you less disturbing as a character. hells, I'd roleplay the sect's principles. Odd manner of dress, Make yourself stand out as the outsider, the alien. It'll add to the game. Even more so if he runs MRD.
#6 zombiegleemax Apr 24, 2005 11:52:39	But how do I avoid getting linched by the townfolk for witchcraft? The obvious answer is dont use the blades around townsfolk but are there any other ideas?
#7 Mortepierre Apr 24, 2005 12:02:02	Well, the problem is that - with the exception of the domain based on the DS setting (assuming it's still out there in the mists) - there are no RL domain where common folks wouldn't freak out if the new stranger in town suddenly sprang his own version of a light-saber! On the other hand.. I just thought of something. There could be another way for you to begin in the Core rather than in some exotic island of terror. Have a Barovian expatriate (specifically, one coming from Immol) settle in Falkovnia. In a land where only the military have the right to bear a weapon, being a Soulknife would be the ultimate advantage.. and probably endear you to the local anti-Drakov guerrilla! Why Immol? Because that's where the Bluetspur expatriates are and if someone has access to psionic in the Core, it's them.
#8 martinveasey Apr 26, 2005 14:58:24	Well, the problem is that - with the exception of the domain based on the DS setting (assuming it's still out there in the mists) - there are no RL domain where common folks wouldn't freak out if the new stranger in town suddenly sprang his own version of a light-saber! I guess I'm not seeing this right, but the whole point of the soul knife / assassin thing is that no-one's supposed to [BOLD]see[/BOLD] the knife until it's too late (if even then). You wander up, sneak attack and are gone. I don't really hold with the idea of the flashy, flamboyant assassin, more the skulk in the shadows ...
#9 martinveasey Apr 26, 2005 15:00:03	Well, the problem is that - with the exception of the domain based on the DS setting (assuming it's still out there in the mists) - there are no RL domain where common folks wouldn't freak out if the new stranger in town suddenly sprang his own version of a light-saber! I guess I'm not seeing this right, but the whole point of the soul knife / assassin thing is that no-one's supposed to see the knife until it's too late (if even then). You wander up, sneak attack and are gone. I don't really hold with the idea of the flashy, flamboyant assassin, more the skulk in the shadows ...
#10 zombiegleemax Apr 26, 2005 16:35:15	So what Im getting is that soulknifes do exist, but if Im starting in lets say Darkon or Mordant, not to bother with playing one if I ever want to use my blades.
#11 gonzoron Apr 27, 2005 10:25:42	If you ever want to use your blades IN PUBLIC. I can imagine it working fine if you have some backup weapon for public display. How often do you really fight with a crowd of villagers gawking? Not that often compared to fighting in dark alleys or lonely cottages, or ancient tombs, etc. You're not going to be wandering around town brandishing them, right? right? ..... right? And there would be some interesting roleplay if ever an NPC or two stumbles on you. Convincing them you're the lesser of two evils would be fun. Stock up on Bluff Ranks. Or multiclass into something that gives you access to charm or memory modifying powers or spells. I don't see it as being any more or less difficult than a sorceror. Try to be subtle, don't flaunt it, and you'll be fine.
#12 zombiegleemax Apr 27, 2005 10:59:58	Well basically the way I pictured it was that local bandits or ruffians attack us and I draw the blades only to have them either run away in fear and start the rumours or attack me because Im a tool of evil. Or else we are trying to free villagers from some evil bad thing and I have to use the blades to fight and the villagers see my evil blades. I guess the one option is to carry a normal blade and use that around anyone I dont plan on killing.
#13 zombiegleemax Apr 27, 2005 11:15:42	Hi -if it helps - ive played a soulknife before in RL. He met an unhappy end, but dont they always- however when I played him -it was along the lines of a dark and grimm sensei knight (based on the 40k book - lost and the dammed). To sum up if you do not own the rather excellent and expensive out of print tome. The sensei are being tricked into a final battle by there masters the illumanti. They are the offsping of the emperor and are therefore faster, quicker and more psychically powered than normal humans. In order to prepare for the final battle they train and lead small war bands in secret. You can see therefore how easily this lent itself to a soulknife character in ravenloft - much like a darker version of the Jedi knights. long dark grey cloak and hood, avoidance of open confrontation at all costs.., large crossbow over shoulder. May give you an idea or two anyway
#14 zombiegleemax Apr 30, 2005 4:09:29	If you want to play a soulknife for the cool powers and get around limited magic you're in the wrong setting. If you want to play a troubled character whom has disturbing storries attached to him wherever he goes you could be on to something. For some reason I'm drawn to the opening of Desperado where everytime you're about to see Antonio Banderas' face it slips furhter into some new shadow. That's your PC, mysterious and imperfectly understood. Surely there are few if any others like you. For those in the "know" your weapon will eventually become the stuff of legend. No doubt Azalin, Hazik, Malken or Vlad will eventually send thieves to steal it from from you. Try to explain to them that it doesn't really come away without you. It doesn't have to look like a lightsaber. What if you "draw" it out of any near-by shadows and it looks inky-black? Or what if it looks like a translucent "ghost sword" that slowly materializes but is always never fully "in reality". Its origins don't even have to be "psionic" - Don't you know your great-grandfather fought the good fight before Van Richten, was spiritually trapped in the mist, and now his spirit can still be manifested (as a sword) by those of his blood who know how to call... Lots of possibilities. Especially when you move out of the box. How the natives react is up to the DM and the campaign but shouldn't be a limiting factor. Don't expect many bad guys to run from you though. Creepy as it is its still just a sword. Generally villagers who know about your "demon haunted blade" won't start out embracing you (you will be an outsider) but you ought to have an easier time of it than your typical Caliban buddy. Go for it. -Eric Gorman Well basically the way I pictured it was that local bandits or ruffians attack us and I draw the blades only to have them either run away in fear and start the rumours or attack me because Im a tool of evil. Or else we are trying to free villagers from some evil bad thing and I have to use the blades to fight and the villagers see my evil blades. I guess the one option is to carry a normal blade and use that around anyone I dont plan on killing.