Finally got my mouse problem sorted out, and had time to continue monk Jin.
PfU to Korlasz, waited 4 hours of her Fire Resistance scroll out, and after 6 OGL + Invisibility combos, she surrendered. Also leveled up. Bought first Monk specific gear from Kazzrem, Sidestep Slippers that provide -1 AC. Also got the Spectacles and Bless amulet before leaving Baldur's Gate. Before leaving I still casually killed Viconia with WoH for first Monk head gear, Silver Circlet (-1 saves), middle of everyone and no-one batting an eye.
Chapter 8 did the mundane guests, Isabella killed with Stone Ally and WoH to complete the guest. 2x Mind Focus, Absorption, Heroism, Cloud, Defense, PfE '10, Clarity and easily helped the Dwarves. After having conversation with the Lich, I got the Secret Revealed from Deepvein, before charming the Clerics, except one. Others ganged on the one, and killed it, before they made a suicide attack against Carrion Crawlers. Got all five amulets for the Lich. This way you get best rewards, Helm of Dumathoin, Secret Revealed, and Undead help in Crusader Attacks, which should be better option for the troll wave. This was the first time I chose this option though so we'll see. Hid behind the tent for the parley.
Morentherene daggered, Ziatar burned, Akanna charmed, Fort surrendered, Bridge mage interrupted with of Ring of Energy. Two Stone Allies was enough to kill the mage after I fed with Ring of Energy from behind. Then killed the rest of the mob in the camp. Did the mundane guests in Chapter 10 reaching max level of 10.
Troll wave, buffed up 250 hp from 10 Heroism and 2 Power potions. Started tanking with the Undead, first killing Yarok and then turning on the trolls. Only used Mephits, 2 Stone Golems, and twice the Goblet. Undead were impressive.
For the mage wave took Wizard Slayers, at the start dispelled illusions with the Clasp of Helm. Used four Myconids, and one Ankhegs, but didn't need any refreshes from the goblet.
For the paladin wave prebuffed to 200hp, -30 AC vs crushing, 4 pre Ankhegs and last Myconids, Wizards, and ganged on Rhayla. Used OGL on every round to stop as much buffs as possible and the dispel never happened. Rhayla was killed, and then it was basic tanking, 5 Ankhegs all in all and one refresh from the Goblet.
For the final wave buffed more hp, tried Silence from Amulet of Whispers but it didn't work. Started tanking, and used my last Ankhegs, which together with the Archers formed nice killing squad out of the battlefield. This wave dealt most damage to Jin, but 9 refreshes from the goblet kept her alive long enough to beat the wave. Although it was pretty close one, as all of my allies got killed I think.
Recharged all the items with Horst before heading to Dragonspear dastle. Waited inside the castle for 1.5 hours, which netted 23 Heroism and 18 Power potions, making total of 53 and 20. As usual with -30 AC vs crushing and negative saves Ashatiel didn't have a chance. And as usual Trix was tricked opening the door.
Next up Bel, who's tough opponent for 2.5 apr Monk, but at least he's not full surprises like Mel.
Nice to see your Monk rolling @histamiini. I still have to reinstall and somehow fix my installation so Loreth the Poor is still waiting for Abazigal. I tried some fully upgraded IWD2 in the meantime but the game also bugged me down in the very first chapter. Looks like i am doomed.
After having only 1 enemy left in the lift drank 20 Heroism, 15 Power, 2x Invul, Clarity, 11 Champion's Strength, Violet, Fortitude and started tanking Bel after escaping the Dispel. After my Champion Strength's were gone, I had used 7 goblets, Bel was at near death with 267 hp. Drank invisibility potion to free myself from the mass of enemies, and started using hit&run with Twinkle and Single-Weapon style which allows -10 Thac0 from Invisibility, so hit 14 and above. But it wasn't to be, got horrible rolls for 20 attacks, and couldn't even beat the Bel's regen. Clarity ended without Jin noticing, got Feared from the Goblet, done, next.
Maybe it's doable, but it will take some luck to pass Bel with a Monk, the hp drop bug from Power and Heroism potions is freaking annoying when doing the hit&run, because I needed to waste rounds keeping my hp up, and the field was quickly filled with enemies. Maybe divide Champions Strength's for two tank sessions...
@histamiini: That's awful! It was such a promising run, and it was so close.
I'm glad that you're taking this in stride. I really struggled when I kept losing Archer/Mage runs to Belhifet in the pre-v2.5 days.
It sounds like Belhifet involves some really precise timing. Between the Potion of Clarity, the Potions of Power and Heroism, and the Champion's Strength scrolls, you don't have much room to vary your strategy. You have to do certain things within a certain window of time, and the necessities of pausing the game mean that timekeeping is incredibly difficult. The monk doesn't quite achieve the APR to pin down Belhifet within the typical window, and once that window is closed, all that's left is highly awkward, inefficient, and unreliable hit-and-fade tactics.
I agree about staggering the Champion's Strength scrolls between two periods. Much of the scroll duration gets wasted when used in the elevator or when hiding behind invisibility. I think the most efficient scroll use would occur while tanking, in between attacks. I'm very clumsy with Belhifet and am poorly equipped to handle the timing necessary to deal with him safely, but staggered scrolls allowed my Archer to make the most of the scrolls, ending the fight with 13 goblet charges and many Greater Restoration scrolls left.
I'm kinda skeptical about Potions of Power. They're only slightly stronger than Potions of Heroism, and they impose a heavy cost in the long run because they trigger that HP reset bug so much sooner than Potions of Heroism--and once that bug kicks in, the only safe thing to do is to go invisible unless you have such excellent timing that you can drink Durlag's Goblet the moment your HP drops down (and that costs you a whole goblet charge every round for every Potion of Power you drank!). I would think Potions of Power would only be useful if your original Potions of Heroism had run out and you were trying to re-build your defenses from scratch while hiding under a Potion of Invisibility.
@semiticgod Yeah using second batch of CS-scrolls during tanking is the most efficient way. There's no benefit of taking pause to refresh them. Tested it some and this is what I got.
Didn't buff hp before the last lift enemy was left. Then drank 40 Heroism potions, 2x Invul, Clarity, Power, 6x CS and Storm leaving 49 rounds before constant hp bug starts to appear. After CS started fading, started using the second batch, then Violet and Fortitude. Around 500hp allows using these with the goblet, and refreshing Invulnerability and Clarity. It's still constant pressure scenario, but killed Bel with first try, although it took around 55 rounds and 14 goblets. So it's definitely doable, but closest tactic I've used to squeeze past Bel.
After my Monk got killed, I've been continuing Nemesis, the evil half-elf F/M/C. Irenicus dungeon blasted through with various hasted summons, got one additional cleric level. Arriving to Athkatla, first looted Maevar's guild hall and bought Nymph Cloak. Sunai Seni easily killed with Skelis. This time I remembered @semeticod tactic and blasted Rayic with repeating the fireball-trap. Maevar pre charmed, priest silenced and skelis did the rest.
Lured Cowled Wizards by casting invisibility, and neutral guards killed all, including Zallanora. Only got Kelben's Warding Whip and bunch of jewels, but at least I could now cast spells on open. Started chapter 3, and picked up MoD with invisibility and improved it. Looted De'Arsine, Glaicus dispelled and built the FoA +3.
Seven Vales, silenced Mencar, charmed Brennan and killed him outside. The same for Amon who dominated Pooky, both killed outside. This actually agroed Orcslicer and Mencar but they got lured downstairs to be chopped up by skelis. Bought Defender of Easthaven +3, and now I had my weapons for some time. Though still depending on summons almost solely. Skelis easily blasted through slums and slaver ship, although I skipped the wizards. Then skelis blasted the paladins in Whindspear Hill's, and the bandits, after summoning them from the back room. Tazoks mob got the same fate. Baited Conster with Shadow Monsters, then waited his summons out. Skelis then hunted him down.
Mind Flayer base, 2x Invul to -5 Saves, Speed, True Seeing, Santuary, PfU and quickly stole the WoW. Although Mindies saw me, they couldn't really do anything before I was gone. Mekrath was Silenced, then bated with a Skeli, and after it was dead, 4 Blood Raged Skelis killed him. Tried them against the Yuan-ti party, but after seeing the impossible mayhem that followed, not a chance. Got only two Firkraag xp-loops from the Wand of Wonder, but that was enough to give 6th level priest spells. Which also meant second best skelis and Entropy Shield which is a nice spell, giving immunity to missile attacks, like for Illasera's dispel attacks. Impersvious Sanctity of Mind is maybe even better giving 8 hour immunity to casting failure etc.
From the next WoW got 12 stonings, and first HLA. After getting to level 12/12/12, I easily took the trolls in Watchers Keep with 4 buffed skelis and clone. Vampiric Wraith couldn't stop us either, after which the level was easily cleared. After killing the first four statues I left WK for now. Next WoW got me to level 13/13/13 and got Smite and half apr more, to 7 apr with Improved Haste.
Time to do some lich hunting. Used Smite against the City Gates lich which is the most dangerous one, the other two lesser ones easily hacked during the single PfU. For Kangaxx I rested and used a second PfU. Smited Kangaxx still cast Cornugon which I waited out before attacking. But then he cast Dark Planetar, which I really had to wait out. After that he was smacked until transformed, then lured the Swords away and waited his PfMW out. Attacked and pretty quickly 7 apr MoD +2 did its job. Another 7 xp-loops from the WoW and finally got Fallen Deva.
Watchers Keep 8 statues, with buffed 4 skelis and deva killed 6 statues one by one luring them to the side room away from the mage statues. Used my last summons to waste spells of the mages, after which with clone I managed to divide and hack them without resting. The encounter is now fair, and easier, when they don't have the spell refresh bug anymore. Also got to level 14/14/14. Second Watchers Keep level is the easiest one, just repeating summons and rests. Chromatic Demon was stoned in few rounds. Although I'm evil and could get an audience from Tahazzar, I let him be for now as I was still too weak I think. Another WoW to level 15/14/16. Using the Firkraag xp-loop for a wand, and then doing something in between, is nice way of not getting bored by it.
Temple ruins crushed with deva, clone and one PfU, Thaxll stoned. Bought bunch of spells and Sling of Everard for 50k. Kalah was non event with improved haste deva from sanctuary. Summons blasted through Planar Sphere. Deva attacked Lavok with farsight, me helping with RoR far away, it was able to pull most of Lavoks spells out. After his planetar got unsummoned, started feeding skelis one by one depleting his spells. Three skelis wasted with death spells, but after the next skeli was able to tank him, sent in the rest to make him surrender.
Tolgerias and the mage silenced, then critical strike harmed Tolgerias from sanctuary. Retreated, then critically harmed the mage too from sanctuary. Got Golden Girdle and Ring of Wizardy from the mage stronghold. Roger the Fence helped the Rift Device again out from the sewers. Deva soloed Sanasha and Prebek. With Deva and one PfU cleared Bodhis lair, and then casually waited until she left.
Watchers Keep level 3. Used new tactic against Tahazzar, petrified him as he's not immune for it. Got triple level up and 8th level spells including Spell Trigger because I have the innate ability SCS-option, so I get it when I get mage level 16. Buffed up for Ka'rashur having critical harm tactic ready, but managed to back up to avoid the dialogue. Simulacrum, farsight and clone then smited Ka'rashur before I joined the free smacking. Nobody even agroed. Half of WoW stoned Aesgareths whole party leaving him alone. Gambled twice winning the scroll of Wish second try. Then he was smited and ganged on with no chance to survive.
Finally got Ring +3 in nR, and the Death Shade was left as a surprise for the Helmites.
Watchers Keep level 4, main level cleared with summons, Saladrex petrified. Before going to the biggest Mind Flayer base in the game, I went back to Athkatla to stock up some Mind Focus potions. 20x Mind Focus for 81 Int, one Invulnerability for -5 saves, Potion of Absorption, bunch of other buffs including Improved Haste, clone and pressed on. Clone got turned against me almost immediatelly, never seen that before? No matter easily wiped the first bunch, then the second one too. It took around 60 rounds. Had to rest for the last party to get Improved Haste back, but didn't need to buff Int as I used 12h Mind Focus potions. The biggest Mind Flayer party in the game took almost both of my RoR's because I didn't have Cloak of Mirroring to stop their annoying Detonations. But in the end I survived, and quickly looted the oil and escaped the Vampiric Ulitharids. After buffing up with the machine ascended to Final Seal level.
Watchers Keep level 5, Test of Stamina can be waited invisible, green dragon stoned, and after using North, East, Search, North, East, North, Scroll, West, Archway on the Spirit Warrior test I had both Spirit and Heart keys. Used one PfU for Azamantes and he was quickly destroyed. Buffed up for the Heart Seal, summons and started hitting Y'tossi with WoW, and after 5 strikes it was stoned. Got apr gloves for 8 apr critical strike FoA fun. Also at the same time got my final level of 18/17/19.
Good luck, @histamiini! You're doing great. Is the Spirit Trial in Watcher's Keep truly reliable in LoB mode?
How common is immunity to critical hits over the course of BG2 and ToB? I've been skeptical about taking many Critical Strikes, and a Fighter/Mage/Cleric in particular seems like it would benefit from Greater Whirlwind Attack. I calculate just over 500 damage from a Critical Strike with FoA and DoE, or 256 against critters with immunity to critical hits. Iron Golem form would deal 560 per round even to critters immune to critical hits.
Do you bother casting SI: Abjuration, or do you just rely on Entropy Shield and keep SI memorized as an aura-independent backup?
@semiticgod Although can't be sure, I've passed the Spirit Warrior test now with that tactic at least 7 times in a row. I remember it having weapon breaking problem back in the day, but not anymore.
Maybe some lesser opponents have helmets, but only big enemy I can think of, and which would bother fighters is Abazigals dragon form. Critical Strike also has benefit of hitting with every attack, which is factor with LoB bonuses I think. Also Shapeshifting isn't option for F/M/C as it's 9th level spell, or was that Iron Golem form possible by some other means? Never really used Shapeshifting.
Don't know if Entropy Shield protects from Dispel, so I try to use both. From level 5 spells I've only Spell Immunities as there isn't really anything else useful, so there's plenty of those to use in fights. SI can be cast lastly without losing buff time, so there's no downside I don't think.
@histamiini: Good point about Critical Strike. I didn't realize immunity to critical hits was so rare in ToB, and the guaranteed hits are definitely more meaningful in LoB mode.
You can get at least 3 Shapechange scrolls and another casting with Limited Wish. There's also a way to make Shapechange permanent, in which case you could gain access to mind flayer and iron golem form as soon as you could afford a Limited Wish scroll in Chapter 2. It requires careful timing, however, and you'd basically need to either use Jimfix spell notifications or about 50 spells and potions to time it properly. Casting speed bonuses would ruin it, notably, and a Slow effect could make the timing easier provided that it didn't result in a fogged aura at the critical point. If you practiced it a few times, it should be possible to do it reliably in a no-reload context.
Notably, iron golem form grants 20% resistance to physical damage as well as 100% resistance to all elements and 100% magic resistance. Mind flayer form grants 90% magic resistance and depending on your install can also grant 50% physical damage resistance.
Entropy Shield does block Remove Magic, if not Dispel Magic, but I can't think of any enemies that use Dispel Magic in SCS. Freeing up some level 5 spell slots would open up room for backup Spell Shields and Sunfire spells that could be amplified with the Wand of Lightning trick for 60d6-90d6 damage per casting, or about a guaranteed 100+ damage even on a successful save.
@semiticgod That Shapesifting tactic sounds interesting, definitely going to check that one out.
Could be that no-one really uses Dispel spell, I can't now think anyone either. But there's still some differences, although there possibly isn't situations it matters. Entropy Shield also stops on hit missile Dispel, but not on hit melee Dispel, and when that happens, the spell ends. SI:Abjuration doesn't protect neither missile nor melee on hit Dispel, but doesn't get removed when that happens, and still protects from Imprisonment.
Tested the Project Image and Simulacrum spells little. Simulacrum can't cast Simulacrum, but PI can cast Simulacrum, that can cast Simulacrums. Although not as powerful as Sorcerer would be, F/M/C still can have five clones on the field, which could move with Farsights.
SIM 11/10/12 5/6 151hp yes
PI 18/17/19 8/7 172hp yes
PI (SIM) 23/22/24 8/7 288hp no
PI (SIM (SIM)) 21/20/22 8/7 261hp no
PI (SIM (SIM (SIM))) 10/9/11 5/6 143hp no
@histamiini: Secondary clones won't get any equipment, but since clones always get all of the original caster's innate abilities, you could summon a handful of clones and have them switch to iron golem form. Their THAC0 would be poor, but Critical Strike would alleviate that.
@semiticgod 5 Iron Golems clones sounds interesting.
I did try the Shapechange and after about 10 tries with a stopwatch I could time it correctly. The scroll has 300s duration, but it seems to be 302s in real life. So timing it to 301.5s retained the form. Tested it and with Improved Haste I could get 5 apr, which with Critical Strikes matches Greater Whirlwind damage output, but guarantees every hit. Also tested with clones, base Thac0 seems to be better with couple first second tier clones.
The damage output with 5 apr Iron Golem and 8 apr FoA +5, Crom Fayer +5 is pretty much identical. Iron Golem has DR, but FoA has slow. With Improved Haste, Righteous Magic, Aid, Prayer, Bless, Critical Strike:
EDIT: damn the Iron Golem form seems to sync very well with the secondary clones, as they're higher level with more hp, but with no gear. With Improved Haste secondary clones all have 4 apr in Iron Golem. So the optimal summon party would be PI in normal form, 5 Skeleton Warriors, Deva and 4 secondary simulacrums all in Iron Golem form.
EDIT: ok forget the Project Image, I can kill it after it has summoned the first Simulacrum and move on the battlefield freely with 4 4apr Critical Strike Iron Golems, 5 Skeleton Warriors and a Deva. They even last around 20 round each because the casting level is higher. I need this in my life.
Nemesis still went back to Watcher's Keep because I remembered that Nalmrissa has a scroll of Wish too. Buffed up, lured her away and killed her together with Deva. There's four Wish scrolls in the game with Aesgareth, Arcana Archives, Nalmissra and one from Spell Merchant (Neera ToB questline). Summons blasted through Brynnlaw and Irenicus asylum. Got Mind Blank spell, similar to Sanctity of Mind but slightly worse, although it's 24 hour duration. The usual 4 Skelis and Deva for Irenicus who started hitting him in Farsight. I was waiting at the door, but was met with a surprise. Irenicus managed to cast unholy amount of help including Planetar, Time Stop and Death spell wiped Skelis. I helped the Deva from afar with RoR and he got Irenicus near death, but then the Planetar healed him. Not only that but he wished all his spells back, used Time Stop again, and summoned even more help. Had to stop to wait all of his summons out. Then three Skelis pulled another three Death spells. Next Skeli pulled another five summons. Sent in hasted clone, Skeli and three Fire Elementals, which finally got Irenicus to 1 hp. Quickly exited the level. Bought Lonk the Sane off with 2000 gold because I wasn't feeling fighting him, and we released the prisoners. And Irenicus ran away soon after. That, was interesting change of pace, but nothing that Nemesis couldn't handle.
Got 80k gold from selling my loot in the City of Caverns, summons then blasted through the Shaguain. Underdark cleared with summons, used one PfU for the Lich, and the Balor was easily blasted away. Also got the first Time Stop scroll from Vithal, there's nine guaranteed Time Stops for F/M/C who can't cast 9th level spells. 8 scrolls, one from Vithal (Underdark), Ribald (Chapter 6), Mage (North Forest), House (Suldanessellar), Dragon (Evil path in Test of Pride), Spell Merchant (Neera ToB guestline) and two from Arcana Archives. Also one from Limited Wish. Next went in to fetch Kuo-Toa blood so I don't have the time constraint on the Ust Natha guestline, and with single rest and summons killed all. In the Demon Knight room Nemesis learned permanent Iron Golem from Limited Wish one time Shapeshifting. I think this is even easier to time, as you can press "end dialogue" and stopwatch at the same time which starts the spell immediatelly. It takes about 303 seconds, so using 302.5 seconds should be pretty repeatable. Time to test new powers against dreaded Demon Knights. And, it was a massacre, three 4 apr Iron Golems using righteous magic and critical strikes killed a Demon Knight in half a round. In few rounds wasted all, handy piece of kit these Golem clones.
The fight against Mind Flayer ambush was over in about 9 seconds. Did the easy guests for the Drow, used one PfU for Deirex and then betrayed them. Adalon pawned all in the exit, but didn't leave yet. I still needed to loot the Beholder and Mind Flayer dungeons. Only fought Elder Orb in the Beholder dungeon, 3 Iron Golems and Deva attacked it, but Iron Golems were gone after Illusions were dispelled. Slight dent on the power of Iron Golem clones. Nevertheless the Deva was able to tank others as I killed the Elder Orb in few rounds for the -2 save amulet.
Mind Flayer base, the first minor encounters smacked through without using any resources. Used the Mind Flayers to open doors, so I could get all four Control Circlets. 20 Mind Focus potions to 82 Int, Absorption, Storm, Invul and pressed on killing the first two Mindies easily. The next big party was wasted without problems with couple of Improved Haste's. Master Brain was smoked with Wand of Cloudkill from afar. Killed the Dwarf for the Fire Control ring, picked up the Staff of Command and escaped the place, didn't need RoR even once. Back in Athkatla bought scrolls with 90k and built Crom Fayer.
Used one PfU for the Twisted Rune. Shangalar is improved from last time I saw summoning some help. Killed the Fire Elemental and two Hakeashars who managed to rob half of my RoR charges. Waited Pit Fiend out. Then slinged Shangalar casually. As nobody of them see through invisibility, I baited their triggers out. After waiting their buffs, I tried to charm Layene with the Staff of Command as she has 0 MR, but she still had a trigger and she evaded it. Had to retreat, disappear and again wait their buffs out. Another try and again she evaded it somehow. After another try I concluded she obviously had still something on that stopped it. Enough of this and decided to charm Vaxall, and Staff of Command worked this time. Turned into Iron Golem and wasted Shyressa in few seconds, then Layene and Revanek too, and Vaxall. That was easy enough. Got Staff of Magi which spells trouble, for others. Then stopped by the bank, called Guarded Compound, and robbed the place with Staff of Magi, Wand of Cloudkill combo. Got 50k gold again. Some small things still, like 3rd Time Stop scroll from North Forest and slapping Bodhi around. With PfU and MoD cleared upstairs, and together with Deva blasted Bodhi. Time to track Irenicus.
Suldanesselar ran through invisble, Nizi stoned, and Rillifane then cleansed the place. First encounter with Jon, waited his initial spell glory and summons out, then baited his Time Stop. Then he had second wind summons and True Sight, which I waited out with SI:Divination. When he didn't produce anymore spells when in sight, summoned 6 apr Deva and easily killed him.
Next I'm facing a troubled decision, what to take from Hell Trials? I only see F/M/C using FoA, DoEH, Crom Fayer and SoM. So str tears could be kind of wasted if I use Crom Fayer. And I don't plan to stick around with Melissan, but quickly slap her down, so save tears are kind of wasted. Maybe taking -10 AC is the optimal road?
Loreth took the -10 AC from the Hell Trials @histamiini but even with AC -31 in Fire Elemental Form she gets hit quite often in ToB. Summons are just superior so far but maybe it will help against Sendai - if we ever get there.
I have parked Loreth for now trying some IWD 2 solo runs with HoF + Tactics + Light of Selune + the rework of @semiticgod. As i never played this game as much as BG its a real blast even though there are battles around each corner making progress rather slow without summons. But thanks to the improved DR scaling my mage hating Deep Gnome Barbarian is doing surprisingly well nearing Shaengarne Bridge without a single death so far. Most likely he will run into some deathtrap sooner or later but - hey - who cares?
@Harpagornis Yeah you'll still get hit, but it takes some pressure off definitely, example the quadruble Wyvern attack is pretty hardcore without low AC. -10 AC is basically BMU without modifiers, and spell casting isn't disabled. Do you know if Entropy Shield -6 AC counts towards AC cap?
EDIT: I think it does, because it's AC bonus, and applied differently than PfE and Improved Invisibility.
Hell Trials. Killed the dragon for another Time Stop scroll. My initial plan of stoning it failed as it destroyed my Skelis and feared Deva, so I had to rely on the old smacking, and with 4 Critical Strikes it was dead. I still decided to go with the 6 STR + 4 AC route as I've no pips on warhammers so DoEH actually has +1 Thac0, +1 base dmg, +20 DR and +1 AC over Crom Fayer. I can still use the BMU against quadruble wyvern attacks etc. if I need AC cap.
Started the battle against Irenicus with 4 Skelis, and quickly ran away looking from afar as the two Balor's killed Glabresuz, and Irenicus himself. This isn't fixed yet in SCS 32.1 it seems. Well maybe next time then. Illasera was lured away and killed in four rounds with Critical Strikes. She couldn't touch me with Entropy Shield on. First pocket plane challenge was casually passed with SoM+WoCK combo. Saradush landing Righteous Magic, Critical Strikes, Improved Haste and Hardiness.
Meeting with Gromnir. Thinned the mob first with SoM/SoC combo. Depleted Gromnirs GWW's and then smacked Eler Had, who's 90% immune to SoC. Lastly smacked Gromnir. Used one PfU for Master Wraith and the Undead. Yaga-Shura stronghold first level ran through with Sanctuary. Gave the name meaning for Brimstone, then charmed enough Fire Giants to kill Berenn. Imix didn't have anything for me so left him be and escaped the place. Clone attacked Nyalee during the cutscene, and after she was Smited and quickly finished.
Yaga-Shura's army now apparently has a homing beacon, and Yaga himself is immune to SoC too, but not for Critical Strike Harm. Looking his stats he's immune to Charm so Control Circlet doesn't work either. So the fight is a lot tougher for fighters now. Oasis met sudden sandstorm that killed all. Got 300k gold, bought Amkethran out and did the mundane guets. Second Pocket Plane challenge with summon door trick, and skelis handled others as me and Deva killed Tamoko and my clone. My clone was tough bastard with Carsomyr and GWW's, but when I Smited him, it was over.
Thinking of Sendai Enclave next which should be pretty easy with FMC.
After my IWD 2 Barbarian got killed at Shaengarne Bridge we switched back to BG running some tests for Abazigals Lair. While we were able to wear down all Dragons with summons and many, many harms we ignored most of the normal mobs as the only one who could saw us through invsibility were the Kua-Toas who are helpless against summons and Fire Elemental form.
We tricked Anadramatis by casting Far Sight and sending in Deva plus Elemental Prince as he wont turn hostile if you avoid to trigger his talking.
As we are not allowed to use any scrolls getting the Scroll of Reversal looked to be tricky but once we realized that Iycanth can be easily killed by stacking Spike Growth from out of his vision we could avoid fighting big bad Fil'Yissetat.
Abazigal and his Wyvern should be next but as we are low on time this will have to wait "a bit".
Good luck @histamiini even though we are sure you dont need it - no?
Sendai Enclave. Woodcutter petrified. For Thelynn released Cloudkills, and after 49 hits only Thelynn and the Priestess were alive. Not for long though as both were Smited and killed. Yochol and the two Glabresuz lured away and Critical Striked. One PfU for Odamaron. Ogremoch was charmed with Control Circlet and after he killed the other Elementals, Nemesis casually used the other Imprisonment scroll on him which opened the door to Diaytha. Diaytha was lured away from others and smacked easily, as was Captain Egeissag. 20 Mind Focus, 2 Absorptions, 1 Invul for the Midnies and it was straightforward smacking. Mages Smited and killed.
Nemesis vs. Sendai. First killed the Cleric statue which eliminates one Deva which could see through invisibility. Then started smoking the Drow. After using smoke 70 strong, there was only 5 enemies left. Buffed up and killed all but one. Then summoned 5 Skelis to kill the last one. Real Sendai arrived, and fed more Skelis to waste her spells, and Cloudkills to kill her summons. When her Mantle were out, buffed up and Smited her, and that was it. 3rd challenge was basic smacking, got Dark Taint.
Draconis Silenced out of sight and hacked to 1 hp, waited Silence out and he transformed to a Dragon. Hit 3x Pierce Magic trigger, Harm, Critical Strike, done. The Greater Werewyvern smacked with couple Critical Strikes. Tried same for Anadramatis, but she got Contingency after used Pierce Magic trigger, so I had to smack him the old way. Took 6 Critical Strikes or so. With 6 apr Deva easily blasted through Kuo-toa and then fetched the rope.
Quadruble Dragon ambush, the first Dragon took no less than 35 hits from Wand of Wonder, and it was making me slightly worried. But the next one got stoned just after 3 hits.
But then the game froze on the cutscene where third Dragon should spawn. I seem to have same problem than @Harpagornis Did you manage to fix that? Hopefully this isn't end of Nemesis.
No, the Dragon Ambush is still bugged here too @histamiini so we were forced to use the console to port us manually into Abazigals Lair again to do some testing. We will do a complete reinstall soon and hope that this fixes the problem!
Because Nemesis is on hold, I installed brand spanking new SCS 32.4 and rolled Jin, Dark Moon Monk. Basically for BG1 giving up Twinkle and Ring of Purity I gain Blur and Detect Illusions. I tested Irenicus dungeon with a Monk, and it's pretty repeatable with just 20/15 MS/HIS, Monk's innate speed and AC-protection help there. So I'll get 100% Detect Illusions in the end of BG1. Blind is another interesting Dark Moon Monk ability, because it allows Blinding yourself which improves stealth success among enemies, or does it work like that? I see enemies flickering being blind, but stealth still succeeded.
* Scimitars
* Single-Weapon Style
weidu.log
// Log of Currently Installed WeiDU Mods
// The top of the file is the 'oldest' mod
// ~TP2_File~ #language_number #component_number // [Subcomponent Name -> ] Component Name [ : Version]
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #1500 // Include arcane spells from Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #1510 // Include divine spells from Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #3505 // Wider selection of random scrolls: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #3551 // Increase the power of Cure Wounds and Cause Wounds spells to the level found in 3rd Edition D&D -> Spells heal or inflict the maximum amount of damage in this range: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4000 // Faster Bears: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4020 // More realistic wolves and wild dogs: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4030 // Improved shapeshifting: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4115 // Thieves assign skill points in multiples of five: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4250 // Make spell sequencers and contingencies into innate abilities: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #5900 // Initialise AI components (required for all tactical and AI components): v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6000 // Smarter general AI: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6010 // Better calls for help: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6030 // Smarter Mages: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6040 // Smarter Priests: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6100 // Potions for NPCs: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6200 // Improved Spiders: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6300 // Smarter sirines and dryads: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6310 // Slightly smarter carrion crawlers: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6320 // Smarter basilisks: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7000 // Improved doppelgangers: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7010 // Tougher Black Talons and Iron Throne guards: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7020 // Improved deployment for parties of assassins: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7030 // Improved kobolds: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7040 // Relocated bounty hunters: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7050 // Improved Ulcaster: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7060 // Improved Balduran's Isle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7070 // Improved Durlag's Tower: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7080 // Improved Demon Cultists: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7090 // Improved Cloakwood Druids: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7100 // Improved Bassilus: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7110 // Improved Drasus party: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7130 // Improved Red Wizards: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7140 // Improved Undercity assassins: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7200 // Tougher chapter-two end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7210 // Tougher chapter-three end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7220 // Tougher chapter-four end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7230 // Tougher chapter-five end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7250 // Improved final battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7900 // Improved minor encounters: v32.4
~LOB_SAVE_FIX/LOB_SAVE_FIX.TP2~ #0 #0 // improve saving throws of all non-joinable creatures
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3040 // Make Bags of Holding Bottomless: v9
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3080 // Increase Ammo Stack Size -> Unlimited Ammo Stacking: v9
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3100 // Increase Potion Stacking -> Unlimited Potion Stacking: v9
~EEUITWEAKS/EEUITWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1070 // Faydark's Abilities Auto-Roller/GrimLefourbe's BG2 UI: 3.0
After killing Algernon and listening Drizzt getting killed, bought Shield Amulet from Carnival. Tanya's Bowl 2500 xp, charmed Mellum hacked Kahrk for 3500 xp, Kirinhale 4000 xp, charmed Riggolo hacked Ghost for 3750 xp before getting killed by Ghasts, and I was already at level 5. Just about killed Dushai for the ring of Free Action after luring him away with WoMM. After getting the Worn Whispers from charming the Hobgoblin, having one Invisibility and three Healing potions I decided to go for Mulahey. Managed to get to Mulahey without using the Invisibility potion, and after few rests he was charmed. Had to use the only Invisibility potion as Mulahey again got panic attack and started wandering. But he was pretty quickly killed. Looted his corpse afar without Kobbos noticing, then used stealth to escape.
Charmed Minsc hacked and then smacked Nimbul, which took long ass time as he broke his weapon. Then charmed Marl ko'd Tranzig.
Raiken escorted Jin to Bandit Camp, where she first charmed Taurgosz and fed him to Wild Dogs. Then I remembered that I needed one invisibility. Doing the rep run for 20/19 economy, I got Stone Giant potion from Brage, which allows to open the chest that has Fire Giant potion in Carnival, which then allows to open the second chest which has one Invulnerability, Invisibility and Heroism potion. Also got second Invisibility potion from Nashkel manor during the same strength buff, and returned Joseph's ring. Monk speed allowed me to escape the two assassin waylays. Bought Sandthief ring, Cloak of Displacement and Greenstone amulet for 17k. Looted the chest in tent with Absorption, Blur, Shield, and with missile boots/cloak I had -16 AC vs missiles. But after instadrinking Invisibility potion, nobody agroed.
Cloakwood ran through casually with Monk speed and Ring of Free Action. Managed to charm Drasus first time, and he was fed to the guards for the speed boots. Stealthed to Davaeorn, and charmed the guard second try. Lured Battle Horrors away, invisibility from the ring, and guard then killed Davaeorn. Got to level 6. Then the guard distracted the Mustard Jelly as I looted the two chests, and then I left. Fetched the Cha and Con tomes, wasting one Sandthief charge escaping the Sirines. Con is useless for me because although Monk has fighter apr, it has arbitaritly has priest Con bonuses.
Getting the second green Protection from Petrification I went and commenced the Basilisk xp-loop, and then just about managed to stone whole Kirian's party. Charmed Abela the Nymph behind the rubble, and she ko'd Ragefast. With the Nymph cloak charmed Ramazith, depleted his spells, before his own Spider and Shadows killed him. Looted the place. Charmed Gamesmen ko'd Marek. Wisdom too is useless for Monk, but it annoys me to leave buffs unused. Dobbelgangers killed one by one with the help of Wand of Heavens. At Iron Throne only charmed Naaman for the PfU, and he was killed by Shennara.
At Candlekeep charmed Iron Throne leaders and after they fought themselves, I killed the last one with WoH. Catacombs looted with help of Absorption, Shield, Cloud Giant, Duhm and Ring of Free Action. Needed one Sandthief charge to not fight anybody. Used last Sandthief charge to feed Denak for Spiders for the Ring of Energy, after which I needed to fork 13k to recharge it. Durlag's Tower basement Ghasts were kited with WoH and OGL. Looted the Warder level with the help of Absorption, Icingdeath, PfF, Greenstone amulet and Sandthief ring. Activated Warders and managed to lure Fear and Avarice to the basement away from Love. Kited Love with Clarity and Ring of Energy. He could do nothing as Monk is immune to Slow, and after 35 hits he was dead. Looted the next level for Durlag's Goblet and Champion's Strength.
Slythe was lured away from Krystin and killed with charmed Larz and Wand of Heavens. For the Palace Ambush charmed the mage, shaman and assassin, and then killed the three Greater Dobbelgangers without much trouble. Assassin killed next. Shaman was the tamest as he didn't really get any spells out. Mage posed the most problems, but Liia's dispel at the beginning took most of his fight out. Did some item fetching before going to Sarevok.
Jin vs. Sarevok. His gang killed from out of sight with OGL. At one point Sarevok found me, but using Invisibility, they again ganged on themselves. Then hit Sarevok rest of the OGL's leaving 10 for Korlasz, Oil's of Fiery Burnings and with Potions of Explosions. And then started kiting him with Ring of Energy. At this point Sarevok had 484 hp left. Monk innate speed just about gives enough space against Hasted Sarevok get kiting working. And after 36 hits Sarevok fell too. Monk passes BG1 again using general tactics.
Jin used Invisibility to Porios, PfU to Korlasz, waited her 4 hour Fire Resistance out, and after using Invisibility/OGL combo 6 times, she surrendered when talked to.
Chapter 8. Casually hacked Teleria and Stone Golem for the Stone Ally. Then listened Dwarves getting killed, picked up their amulets, used one PfU and enlisted the help of Undead.
Chapter 9. Morentherene daggered, Ziatar burned, Akanna charmed, fort surrendered, bridge mage interrupted with Ring of Energy and killed with the help of Stone Golem.
Chapter 10. Did the mundane guests for level 10. Ferrusk was charmed for the Ankheg amulet. Opened and closed the door to the Drow party to get the Cloak of Gargoyle, which is the only way to protect Monk from Critical Hits. They killed themselves. Escaped the basement with Invisibility.
Used the Undead for the Troll wave. First concentrated on the Trolls as I was the only one that could kill them. Then wiped the rest using Mephits, one Stone Ally and five Goblets.
Wizard Slayers for the mage wave. Mephits, Myconids and Stone Ally. 100% Detect Illusions nicely dispelled their Mirror Images and didn't need to use any Goblets.
Had to rebuff hp for the Paladin wave and also got -30 AC vs. crushing. Used four Ankhegs, which are nice damage dealers, first concentrating on killing Rhayla who could Dispel. Wasn't a close one and only needed 3 Goblets.
Final wave was the most trouble I've had in this run. Because I made a mistake of not rebuffing hp again.
After 50 rounds or so my hp were gone, allies got killed and after using all my Goblets I needed quickly some tactic, because Grimgor was still almost at full health. I still had plenty of summons, so I spammed them as I kited Grimgor with Ring of Energy, and after using the very last Myconid, he got finally killed.
Recharged all my stuff with Horst before waiting couple hours at Dragonspear battle, after which I had 62 Heroism and 32 Power potions. Ashatiel easily killed and Trix tricked
Buffed up for the lift except hp, and smacked through with fists as they've better Thac0 than swords. Ankhegs are good companions for the first two waves, but they'll get feared in the last. Left the last Bone Fiend with couple hp's before buffing for Bel.
Invulnerability, Clarity, 40 Heroism for 500 hp, Invulnerability, Clarity, Power, 6x Champion's Strength and Storm. This gives 50 rounds before hp bug starts to appear. Escaped Bel's Dispel and then just started hacking with 2.5 apr Tongue of Acid and Icingdeath. When my CS's started fading Bel was at injured state.
Used last of Champion's Strengths, in two stages refreshing health between. Violet, Fortitude, Power, Invulnerability, Clarity and now it was just a waiting game who falls first. At this point I started using Detect Illusions as it dispels Bel's Improved Invisibility giving +4 AC penalty. Both can be active if you just first attack and then press Detect Illusions. This isn't that good in the beginning with great Thac0, because he will disappear casting it time and again, which will take hitting time away.
In the end it was Bel who fell first, before my last CS was out, and I still had 7 Goblets left. Switched back for fists for Hephernaan and killed him too with the help of summons.
So Dark Moon Monk passes SoD, although not much to spare. Already anxious to try BG2 with a Monk.
Btw here's stats of the enemies of the last battle, with optimal loadout Monk can get 20's protection against lesser enemies in both slashing and missile damage. Although I was using Medal of Valor so Cornugons and Erinyes also hit with 19's.
I've been having fun with a Monk in SoA. It's pretty different because fists really are the best weapons for a Monk in SoA. And Monk probably has the fewest of summons, no clone from helmets, nor elementals from quarterstaffs. I've to come by without many of the usual suspects: flails (FoA, DoEH), axes (Azuredge), maces (MoD), hammers (Crom Fayer), quarterstaffs (Staff of Air/Earth/Fire, SoC), Amulet of Power (Level Drain), helmets (Simulacrum), shields (Reflection Shield). This spells trouble especially with Undead, but now I can skip places like Planar Sphere etc. And 1d20+4 fists still are awesome weapons, especially with GWW's and Frozen Fists distrupting through Stoneskins. Frozen Fists stack, so I can GWW with 9 of them doing 180 additional cold damage per round. And long casting Blur and Mirror Image and 100% Detect Illusion really help a long way.
Irenicus dungeon. The first Smoke Mephit was easily smacked without wasting any resources, Blur, Duhm and 3x stacked Frozen Fists. Also casually smacked the Jailkeep Golem for xp. Passed the Lightning Mephit and Duergar with stealth and picked the activation stone. Activated the Sewage Golem and looted the room, then locked the Mineral Mephit in the room. After a while got stealth again on and passed the Duergars and Ligthning Mephits second time to the corridoor where I killed the Smoke Mephit.
Then lured the four Duergars away from the next corridoor to the exit, passed them, and stealth then succeeded so they stopped following. Looted the key and some other stuff and left the level. Used Blur and lured the Mephits away from the room and shut the door. Monk innate speed helps here. Stealthed Thiefs and Duergars, then picked up Ring +1, and Blunt belt before escaping the place.
Looted Maevars guild hall and bought Nymph cloak. Suna Seni waylay passed with pre stealthing. Then robbed the Temple area, leveled up and got Mirror Image. Mephits lured away, and separated and killed. With couple Fire Resistance potions repetead the Fireball trap which killed Rayic. Maevar was pre Charmed with the Nymph cloak, then he cast Invisibility on me and I watched his gang kill him.
Fetched Potion case, then bought my reputation to 14. Tanners guest, Graveyard guests, and got another level up. Fists were now +2 with 3 apr. Sided with Bodhi first time ever, so we'll see how that goes. At least I get the one summon more from it. Bought Ring of Air Control for per day free Improved Invisibility, and fetched Belm +2. With Belm off hand I can have 5 apr with Fists, although with +4/+8 Thac0 penalty.
At Seven Vales managed to Charm Brennan who attacked Orcslicer and got killed. Got another per day free Invisibility. Only Amon followed to downstairs, so I level skipped his spells. Pebblecrusher was the next one to follow, Invisibility and the guard casually killed him. The same for Orcslicer. Tried to take Pooky 1on1 but he still packed a punch and had to retreat and drink health potions. Another try, and now he got killed. Another level up looting De'Arnise, although I left Glaicus be for now. Probably the first run for me not able to use FoA.
Something different next. Charmed the mage and cleric from the Captain Dennis party, escorted them out, depleted from spells and then killed them. Then charmed the two fighters which took some time, and just about killed Captain Dennis, before resorting too many Extra Healing potions. For my troubles I got Boomerang Dagger +2, 3 apr throwing dagger.
Neera helped me to Hidden Refuge, where I did the Mereth's fetching guest for Amulet +2. Then picked up first Monk head gear, Pale Green Ioun Stone for +1 Thac0 and +10% hp. Freed slaves in Copper Coronet, Beastmaster casually hacked before talking, without anyone agroing. Then did the rest of the sewers, Charmed the Kobold shaman for the guest item. Lured the Hobgoblins first on the Cloudkill trap, then the Slavers. Monk is immune for it. Skipped rest of the enemies. Prebek and Sanasha spells level skipped, then kicked everybody to ground. Got level 14 during the Harper Hold, which was a biggie, 42 MR bam. Did the Unseeing Eye guest to the point where I got half of the Rift Device.
Casually kicked the City Gates Lich after hitting it with PfU. Got third per day free Invisibility, and Daystar +2 which is the only good weapon for Monk against Undead. Windspear Paladins done one by one, with Improved Invisibility, Blur, Mirror Image, Duhm and four stacked Frozen Fists. For the Bandits I hid behind the room, then first killed the two Orcs, went outside and rested. Quivering Palm killed the Dwarf and then easily kicked the Cleric out. Tazok's gang was still too tough for frontal assault, and I almost got killed by Tazok critical. So I killed the Orc's first with rests and Quivering Palms, then kited Tazok with Boomerang dagger. Got the sewer key. Consters spells level skipped, and then he was easily dispatched with hitting even rolling 2's. Another level up to 15, massively improving my fists to 3.5 apr 1d20+3. Couple Stone Forms, Improved Invisibility to -5 saves, PfU for Alhoon, Absorption and picked up the WoW from Mindflayer Dungeon. Bought 57 Stone to Flesh scrolls and started Firkraag xp-loop. Got 4 level ups to level 19 from two full Wand of Wonders. Fists were now 4 apr which is the maximum speed.
Mekrath was easily dispatched at this point. Also using one Magic Protection potion I picked up the Warrior Horn and improved it twice. I now had my first summon. Was able to kill Paina and got Kitthix too. Crypt King easily punched out. Treya lured away with Boomerang Dagger and easily killed for the Thac0 cloak. Then I companied Rasaad to the City Gates. Amphitheather was basic smacking, got Ring of Duplication so I could now cast 5 Mirror Images per day. Did the easy Trials in Heretic Temple, getting Gem of Seeing (True Seeing per day), Gauntlets of Aln Zek (+3 dmg, 15% 1d10 Cold dmg) and Cloak of Atonement which has 30% chance of casting Armor of Faith. Testing the cloak, for Armor of Faith it's useless with just 5 DR. I checked it with Near Infinity and all effects are cast at level 15, and all other work, besides AoF. I wonder why it's bugged like that?
Neb easily killed with 5 stacked Frozen Fists. Finishing the Temple guests got to level 20. Easily smacked the two minor liches with single PfU. Kangaxx can still wait because I can't use MoD or Azuredge. From the next three WoW's I got 17 loops, enough for level 25. My Fists are now top of the line hitting as +4 weapons. Also got Smite. With Smite I easily killed the Djinni for the Efreeti bottle.
Watchers Keep 1st Level. Bought Sword of Flame to finish Trolls, and with one rest they were done. Vampriric Wraiths were separated, Smited and kicked out. The first four statues were separated and smacked without needing to rest, although I burned my RoR. Level 26 with maximum innate MR of 78. Got two statues killed from the next mob before I had to rest to get my abilities back. Then managed to take out the three weaker ones with single go. Then the Golem statue was killed. The two mage statues were depleted from spells including, PfMW, Time Stops and Planetars, after which I killed them pretty easily with Frozen Fists distrupting rest of their casting through Stoneskins. Also 140 stealth was good in here.
Watchers Keep 2nd Level. The two Fire Giants were tough without proper summons and DR, but after figuring Smite actually stunned them, it was piece of cake. Monk is the first character not Slowed in the Ice Laboratory for me. After smacking my way through the rest of the level and stoning Chromatic Demon, I got to level 29.
Time to face Kangaxx. Under PfU and out of sight first waited his Cornugon out, then Planetar. Then he stood still as I smacked him into the transformation. Lured the Swords out, Improved Invisibility, left them as he cast Remove Magic to them, which I evaded. But as I attacked him, he cast Remove Magic on me. Quickly used PfU on him, and waited his Swords out. Now he was doing nothing but running away then standing still as I punched him. It took awhile with his 90 DR, but eventually he got ko'd. With Ring of Gaxx I now had 88 MR.
Absolutely murdered the Shadow Thieves for the shipment. With innate -3, Duhm, Blur and Improved Invisibility I already had -20 AC. Chose the Heroic guest, and the Shadow Thieves were rather disappontment. Easily killed all. Then murdered Gaelan and the other thief easily. First floor of Shadow Thief hall exploded without healing, feeling pretty powerful now. Just before reaching Linvail I reached level 30. Then stormed the place and eventually slayed all. Either I'm really powerful or the Shadow Thieves are really weak. -21 AC, 100% Detect Illusions and Frozen Fists hitting through Stoneskins helps. Afterwards I realized it was actually Immunity to Normal Weapons which why the Shadow Thieves weren't touching me. Got Djinni summoning ring, and Ring +2. With Duhm, Blur, Improved Invisibility and Sensate Amulet my AC was now -23, -33 vs Missiles.
Killing Kalah was freaking fast. Smite, Detect Illusions to dispel Mirror Image, Whirlwind, done. Spent another WoW and got to level 32, level 33 after killing Glaicus.
Wathcers Keep 3rd level. Being evil I got free chance against Tahazzar. And its pretty easy to kill him with Wand of Wonder. Only trouble is that he has -23 AC, so it needs one additional round to cast Critical Strike, and his minions will agro. Which is why summons are needed to give additional time. My Efreeti got 20 roll so I didn't need Critical Strike. For Ka'rashur buffed hp to 420, Blur, Mirror Image, Duhm, Improved Invisiblity, Hardiness. Again managed to back up before dialogue, summoned my four minions as distraction, and attacked. First Smited Ka'rashur, and then four Whirlwinds was enough. Djinni was still alive at this point, picked up Ka'rashurs gem and escaped. With Aesgareth gamled once, winning the Spectral Brand +4. Needed 23 strikes from WoW to Petrify all Aesgareths minions. Also got to level 34. Summoned minions, Smited Aesgareth and he was dead before he recovered.
Fighters can stop all game ending effects from Deck of Many Things, with low enough saves, Charm protection etc. PfM and Shield of Archons from Cloak of Atonement can stop MAGICIAN, or polymorph to a rabbit. Summons can't be stopped, but using pointless levels you can leave, like crypts makes them safe. Only really negative effect that can't be stopped is EURYALE, or +1 penalty to saving throws. Only Spell Immunity can stop this, and fighters can't access it. All effects have equal chance of happening, so EURYALE has 1/6 chance. If you get EURYALE, you get 1/6 chance for 10hp and 5 FR to balance it. KEY (RING +3) and STAR (ability score +1) have both 1/18 chance of happening from the beginning. So it's a fair gamble I thin, but not going to bother this run though.
Comments
PfU to Korlasz, waited 4 hours of her Fire Resistance scroll out, and after 6 OGL + Invisibility combos, she surrendered. Also leveled up. Bought first Monk specific gear from Kazzrem, Sidestep Slippers that provide -1 AC. Also got the Spectacles and Bless amulet before leaving Baldur's Gate. Before leaving I still casually killed Viconia with WoH for first Monk head gear, Silver Circlet (-1 saves), middle of everyone and no-one batting an eye.
Chapter 8 did the mundane guests, Isabella killed with Stone Ally and WoH to complete the guest. 2x Mind Focus, Absorption, Heroism, Cloud, Defense, PfE '10, Clarity and easily helped the Dwarves. After having conversation with the Lich, I got the Secret Revealed from Deepvein, before charming the Clerics, except one. Others ganged on the one, and killed it, before they made a suicide attack against Carrion Crawlers. Got all five amulets for the Lich. This way you get best rewards, Helm of Dumathoin, Secret Revealed, and Undead help in Crusader Attacks, which should be better option for the troll wave. This was the first time I chose this option though so we'll see. Hid behind the tent for the parley.
Morentherene daggered, Ziatar burned, Akanna charmed, Fort surrendered, Bridge mage interrupted with of Ring of Energy. Two Stone Allies was enough to kill the mage after I fed with Ring of Energy from behind. Then killed the rest of the mob in the camp. Did the mundane guests in Chapter 10 reaching max level of 10.
Troll wave, buffed up 250 hp from 10 Heroism and 2 Power potions. Started tanking with the Undead, first killing Yarok and then turning on the trolls. Only used Mephits, 2 Stone Golems, and twice the Goblet. Undead were impressive.
For the mage wave took Wizard Slayers, at the start dispelled illusions with the Clasp of Helm. Used four Myconids, and one Ankhegs, but didn't need any refreshes from the goblet.
For the paladin wave prebuffed to 200hp, -30 AC vs crushing, 4 pre Ankhegs and last Myconids, Wizards, and ganged on Rhayla. Used OGL on every round to stop as much buffs as possible and the dispel never happened. Rhayla was killed, and then it was basic tanking, 5 Ankhegs all in all and one refresh from the Goblet.
For the final wave buffed more hp, tried Silence from Amulet of Whispers but it didn't work. Started tanking, and used my last Ankhegs, which together with the Archers formed nice killing squad out of the battlefield. This wave dealt most damage to Jin, but 9 refreshes from the goblet kept her alive long enough to beat the wave. Although it was pretty close one, as all of my allies got killed I think.
Recharged all the items with Horst before heading to Dragonspear dastle. Waited inside the castle for 1.5 hours, which netted 23 Heroism and 18 Power potions, making total of 53 and 20. As usual with -30 AC vs crushing and negative saves Ashatiel didn't have a chance. And as usual Trix was tricked opening the door.
Next up Bel, who's tough opponent for 2.5 apr Monk, but at least he's not full surprises like Mel.
Monk Jin vs. Bel
3x PfF, PfE, PfC, PfA (12h)
8x Mind Focus (12h)
3x PfP (6h)
Defense (2h)
Storm Giant (2h)
PfE 10' (7t)
2x Invulnerability (1h)
Clarity (1h)
1x Power (4t)
After having only 1 enemy left in the lift drank 20 Heroism, 15 Power, 2x Invul, Clarity, 11 Champion's Strength, Violet, Fortitude and started tanking Bel after escaping the Dispel. After my Champion Strength's were gone, I had used 7 goblets, Bel was at near death with 267 hp. Drank invisibility potion to free myself from the mass of enemies, and started using hit&run with Twinkle and Single-Weapon style which allows -10 Thac0 from Invisibility, so hit 14 and above. But it wasn't to be, got horrible rolls for 20 attacks, and couldn't even beat the Bel's regen. Clarity ended without Jin noticing, got Feared from the Goblet, done, next.
Maybe it's doable, but it will take some luck to pass Bel with a Monk, the hp drop bug from Power and Heroism potions is freaking annoying when doing the hit&run, because I needed to waste rounds keeping my hp up, and the field was quickly filled with enemies. Maybe divide Champions Strength's for two tank sessions...
I'm glad that you're taking this in stride. I really struggled when I kept losing Archer/Mage runs to Belhifet in the pre-v2.5 days.
It sounds like Belhifet involves some really precise timing. Between the Potion of Clarity, the Potions of Power and Heroism, and the Champion's Strength scrolls, you don't have much room to vary your strategy. You have to do certain things within a certain window of time, and the necessities of pausing the game mean that timekeeping is incredibly difficult. The monk doesn't quite achieve the APR to pin down Belhifet within the typical window, and once that window is closed, all that's left is highly awkward, inefficient, and unreliable hit-and-fade tactics.
I agree about staggering the Champion's Strength scrolls between two periods. Much of the scroll duration gets wasted when used in the elevator or when hiding behind invisibility. I think the most efficient scroll use would occur while tanking, in between attacks. I'm very clumsy with Belhifet and am poorly equipped to handle the timing necessary to deal with him safely, but staggered scrolls allowed my Archer to make the most of the scrolls, ending the fight with 13 goblet charges and many Greater Restoration scrolls left.
I'm kinda skeptical about Potions of Power. They're only slightly stronger than Potions of Heroism, and they impose a heavy cost in the long run because they trigger that HP reset bug so much sooner than Potions of Heroism--and once that bug kicks in, the only safe thing to do is to go invisible unless you have such excellent timing that you can drink Durlag's Goblet the moment your HP drops down (and that costs you a whole goblet charge every round for every Potion of Power you drank!). I would think Potions of Power would only be useful if your original Potions of Heroism had run out and you were trying to re-build your defenses from scratch while hiding under a Potion of Invisibility.
Didn't buff hp before the last lift enemy was left. Then drank 40 Heroism potions, 2x Invul, Clarity, Power, 6x CS and Storm leaving 49 rounds before constant hp bug starts to appear. After CS started fading, started using the second batch, then Violet and Fortitude. Around 500hp allows using these with the goblet, and refreshing Invulnerability and Clarity. It's still constant pressure scenario, but killed Bel with first try, although it took around 55 rounds and 14 goblets. So it's definitely doable, but closest tactic I've used to squeeze past Bel.
Lured Cowled Wizards by casting invisibility, and neutral guards killed all, including Zallanora. Only got Kelben's Warding Whip and bunch of jewels, but at least I could now cast spells on open. Started chapter 3, and picked up MoD with invisibility and improved it. Looted De'Arsine, Glaicus dispelled and built the FoA +3.
Seven Vales, silenced Mencar, charmed Brennan and killed him outside. The same for Amon who dominated Pooky, both killed outside. This actually agroed Orcslicer and Mencar but they got lured downstairs to be chopped up by skelis. Bought Defender of Easthaven +3, and now I had my weapons for some time. Though still depending on summons almost solely. Skelis easily blasted through slums and slaver ship, although I skipped the wizards. Then skelis blasted the paladins in Whindspear Hill's, and the bandits, after summoning them from the back room. Tazoks mob got the same fate. Baited Conster with Shadow Monsters, then waited his summons out. Skelis then hunted him down.
Mind Flayer base, 2x Invul to -5 Saves, Speed, True Seeing, Santuary, PfU and quickly stole the WoW. Although Mindies saw me, they couldn't really do anything before I was gone. Mekrath was Silenced, then bated with a Skeli, and after it was dead, 4 Blood Raged Skelis killed him. Tried them against the Yuan-ti party, but after seeing the impossible mayhem that followed, not a chance. Got only two Firkraag xp-loops from the Wand of Wonder, but that was enough to give 6th level priest spells. Which also meant second best skelis and Entropy Shield which is a nice spell, giving immunity to missile attacks, like for Illasera's dispel attacks. Impersvious Sanctity of Mind is maybe even better giving 8 hour immunity to casting failure etc.
Entropy Shield (1 round/level)
-6 AC, -2 saves, 50% FR/CR/ER/AR
Immunity: Flamestrike, missile attacks including Magic Missiles, Breach, Remove Magic, Imprisonment
Impervious Sanctity of Mind (8 hours)
Spell Shield
Immunity: Berserk, Casting Failure, Charm, Confusion, Fear, Feeblemind, Hold, Intoxication, Panic, Paralyze, Sleep, Maze
From the next WoW got 12 stonings, and first HLA. After getting to level 12/12/12, I easily took the trolls in Watchers Keep with 4 buffed skelis and clone. Vampiric Wraith couldn't stop us either, after which the level was easily cleared. After killing the first four statues I left WK for now. Next WoW got me to level 13/13/13 and got Smite and half apr more, to 7 apr with Improved Haste.
Time to do some lich hunting. Used Smite against the City Gates lich which is the most dangerous one, the other two lesser ones easily hacked during the single PfU. For Kangaxx I rested and used a second PfU. Smited Kangaxx still cast Cornugon which I waited out before attacking. But then he cast Dark Planetar, which I really had to wait out. After that he was smacked until transformed, then lured the Swords away and waited his PfMW out. Attacked and pretty quickly 7 apr MoD +2 did its job. Another 7 xp-loops from the WoW and finally got Fallen Deva.
Watchers Keep 8 statues, with buffed 4 skelis and deva killed 6 statues one by one luring them to the side room away from the mage statues. Used my last summons to waste spells of the mages, after which with clone I managed to divide and hack them without resting. The encounter is now fair, and easier, when they don't have the spell refresh bug anymore. Also got to level 14/14/14. Second Watchers Keep level is the easiest one, just repeating summons and rests. Chromatic Demon was stoned in few rounds. Although I'm evil and could get an audience from Tahazzar, I let him be for now as I was still too weak I think. Another WoW to level 15/14/16. Using the Firkraag xp-loop for a wand, and then doing something in between, is nice way of not getting bored by it.
Temple ruins crushed with deva, clone and one PfU, Thaxll stoned. Bought bunch of spells and Sling of Everard for 50k. Kalah was non event with improved haste deva from sanctuary. Summons blasted through Planar Sphere. Deva attacked Lavok with farsight, me helping with RoR far away, it was able to pull most of Lavoks spells out. After his planetar got unsummoned, started feeding skelis one by one depleting his spells. Three skelis wasted with death spells, but after the next skeli was able to tank him, sent in the rest to make him surrender.
Tolgerias and the mage silenced, then critical strike harmed Tolgerias from sanctuary. Retreated, then critically harmed the mage too from sanctuary. Got Golden Girdle and Ring of Wizardy from the mage stronghold. Roger the Fence helped the Rift Device again out from the sewers. Deva soloed Sanasha and Prebek. With Deva and one PfU cleared Bodhis lair, and then casually waited until she left.
Watchers Keep level 3. Used new tactic against Tahazzar, petrified him as he's not immune for it. Got triple level up and 8th level spells including Spell Trigger because I have the innate ability SCS-option, so I get it when I get mage level 16. Buffed up for Ka'rashur having critical harm tactic ready, but managed to back up to avoid the dialogue. Simulacrum, farsight and clone then smited Ka'rashur before I joined the free smacking. Nobody even agroed. Half of WoW stoned Aesgareths whole party leaving him alone. Gambled twice winning the scroll of Wish second try. Then he was smited and ganged on with no chance to survive.
Deck of Many things
1st Draw, SI:Abjuration, SI:Evocation RUIN (blocked)
2nd Draw, SI:Alteration, SI:Enchantment KEY
3rd Draw, SI:Conjuration SKULL
Finally got Ring +3 in nR, and the Death Shade was left as a surprise for the Helmites.
Watchers Keep level 4, main level cleared with summons, Saladrex petrified. Before going to the biggest Mind Flayer base in the game, I went back to Athkatla to stock up some Mind Focus potions. 20x Mind Focus for 81 Int, one Invulnerability for -5 saves, Potion of Absorption, bunch of other buffs including Improved Haste, clone and pressed on. Clone got turned against me almost immediatelly, never seen that before? No matter easily wiped the first bunch, then the second one too. It took around 60 rounds. Had to rest for the last party to get Improved Haste back, but didn't need to buff Int as I used 12h Mind Focus potions. The biggest Mind Flayer party in the game took almost both of my RoR's because I didn't have Cloak of Mirroring to stop their annoying Detonations. But in the end I survived, and quickly looted the oil and escaped the Vampiric Ulitharids. After buffing up with the machine ascended to Final Seal level.
Watchers Keep level 5, Test of Stamina can be waited invisible, green dragon stoned, and after using North, East, Search, North, East, North, Scroll, West, Archway on the Spirit Warrior test I had both Spirit and Heart keys. Used one PfU for Azamantes and he was quickly destroyed. Buffed up for the Heart Seal, summons and started hitting Y'tossi with WoW, and after 5 strikes it was stoned. Got apr gloves for 8 apr critical strike FoA fun. Also at the same time got my final level of 18/17/19.
These are my picks for proficiencies and hla's.
* Mace
** Quarterstaff
* Sling
* Single-Weapon Style
*** Two-Weapon Style
* Whirlwind
* Power Attack
******** Critical Strike
* Smite
** Hardiness
* Energy Blades
* Globe of Blades
* Fallen Deva
* Lv6 Spells
* Lv7 Spells
* Lv8 Spells
Maybe time to continue the main story.
How common is immunity to critical hits over the course of BG2 and ToB? I've been skeptical about taking many Critical Strikes, and a Fighter/Mage/Cleric in particular seems like it would benefit from Greater Whirlwind Attack. I calculate just over 500 damage from a Critical Strike with FoA and DoE, or 256 against critters with immunity to critical hits. Iron Golem form would deal 560 per round even to critters immune to critical hits.
Do you bother casting SI: Abjuration, or do you just rely on Entropy Shield and keep SI memorized as an aura-independent backup?
Maybe some lesser opponents have helmets, but only big enemy I can think of, and which would bother fighters is Abazigals dragon form. Critical Strike also has benefit of hitting with every attack, which is factor with LoB bonuses I think. Also Shapeshifting isn't option for F/M/C as it's 9th level spell, or was that Iron Golem form possible by some other means? Never really used Shapeshifting.
Don't know if Entropy Shield protects from Dispel, so I try to use both. From level 5 spells I've only Spell Immunities as there isn't really anything else useful, so there's plenty of those to use in fights. SI can be cast lastly without losing buff time, so there's no downside I don't think.
You can get at least 3 Shapechange scrolls and another casting with Limited Wish. There's also a way to make Shapechange permanent, in which case you could gain access to mind flayer and iron golem form as soon as you could afford a Limited Wish scroll in Chapter 2. It requires careful timing, however, and you'd basically need to either use Jimfix spell notifications or about 50 spells and potions to time it properly. Casting speed bonuses would ruin it, notably, and a Slow effect could make the timing easier provided that it didn't result in a fogged aura at the critical point. If you practiced it a few times, it should be possible to do it reliably in a no-reload context.
Notably, iron golem form grants 20% resistance to physical damage as well as 100% resistance to all elements and 100% magic resistance. Mind flayer form grants 90% magic resistance and depending on your install can also grant 50% physical damage resistance.
Entropy Shield does block Remove Magic, if not Dispel Magic, but I can't think of any enemies that use Dispel Magic in SCS. Freeing up some level 5 spell slots would open up room for backup Spell Shields and Sunfire spells that could be amplified with the Wand of Lightning trick for 60d6-90d6 damage per casting, or about a guaranteed 100+ damage even on a successful save.
Could be that no-one really uses Dispel spell, I can't now think anyone either. But there's still some differences, although there possibly isn't situations it matters. Entropy Shield also stops on hit missile Dispel, but not on hit melee Dispel, and when that happens, the spell ends. SI:Abjuration doesn't protect neither missile nor melee on hit Dispel, but doesn't get removed when that happens, and still protects from Imprisonment.
Tested the Project Image and Simulacrum spells little. Simulacrum can't cast Simulacrum, but PI can cast Simulacrum, that can cast Simulacrums. Although not as powerful as Sorcerer would be, F/M/C still can have five clones on the field, which could move with Farsights.
char - level - spell levels - hp - gear
F/M/C 18/17/19 8/7 172hp yes
SIM 11/10/12 5/6 151hp yes
PI 18/17/19 8/7 172hp yes
PI (SIM) 23/22/24 8/7 288hp no
PI (SIM (SIM)) 21/20/22 8/7 261hp no
PI (SIM (SIM (SIM))) 10/9/11 5/6 143hp no
I did try the Shapechange and after about 10 tries with a stopwatch I could time it correctly. The scroll has 300s duration, but it seems to be 302s in real life. So timing it to 301.5s retained the form. Tested it and with Improved Haste I could get 5 apr, which with Critical Strikes matches Greater Whirlwind damage output, but guarantees every hit. Also tested with clones, base Thac0 seems to be better with couple first second tier clones.
FMC 3
PI 3
PIsim -2
PIsimsim -2
PIsimsimsim 3
FMC Iron Golem 118*5 = 590 dmg
FMC FoA/Crom 76*6+69*2 = 594 dmg
EDIT: damn the Iron Golem form seems to sync very well with the secondary clones, as they're higher level with more hp, but with no gear. With Improved Haste secondary clones all have 4 apr in Iron Golem. So the optimal summon party would be PI in normal form, 5 Skeleton Warriors, Deva and 4 secondary simulacrums all in Iron Golem form.
EDIT: ok forget the Project Image, I can kill it after it has summoned the first Simulacrum and move on the battlefield freely with 4 4apr Critical Strike Iron Golems, 5 Skeleton Warriors and a Deva. They even last around 20 round each because the casting level is higher. I need this in my life.
Got 80k gold from selling my loot in the City of Caverns, summons then blasted through the Shaguain. Underdark cleared with summons, used one PfU for the Lich, and the Balor was easily blasted away. Also got the first Time Stop scroll from Vithal, there's nine guaranteed Time Stops for F/M/C who can't cast 9th level spells. 8 scrolls, one from Vithal (Underdark), Ribald (Chapter 6), Mage (North Forest), House (Suldanessellar), Dragon (Evil path in Test of Pride), Spell Merchant (Neera ToB guestline) and two from Arcana Archives. Also one from Limited Wish. Next went in to fetch Kuo-Toa blood so I don't have the time constraint on the Ust Natha guestline, and with single rest and summons killed all. In the Demon Knight room Nemesis learned permanent Iron Golem from Limited Wish one time Shapeshifting. I think this is even easier to time, as you can press "end dialogue" and stopwatch at the same time which starts the spell immediatelly. It takes about 303 seconds, so using 302.5 seconds should be pretty repeatable. Time to test new powers against dreaded Demon Knights. And, it was a massacre, three 4 apr Iron Golems using righteous magic and critical strikes killed a Demon Knight in half a round. In few rounds wasted all, handy piece of kit these Golem clones.
The fight against Mind Flayer ambush was over in about 9 seconds.
Mind Flayer base, the first minor encounters smacked through without using any resources. Used the Mind Flayers to open doors, so I could get all four Control Circlets. 20 Mind Focus potions to 82 Int, Absorption, Storm, Invul and pressed on killing the first two Mindies easily. The next big party was wasted without problems with couple of Improved Haste's. Master Brain was smoked with Wand of Cloudkill from afar. Killed the Dwarf for the Fire Control ring, picked up the Staff of Command and escaped the place, didn't need RoR even once. Back in Athkatla bought scrolls with 90k and built Crom Fayer.
Used one PfU for the Twisted Rune. Shangalar is improved from last time I saw summoning some help. Killed the Fire Elemental and two Hakeashars who managed to rob half of my RoR charges. Waited Pit Fiend out. Then slinged Shangalar casually. As nobody of them see through invisibility, I baited their triggers out. After waiting their buffs, I tried to charm Layene with the Staff of Command as she has 0 MR, but she still had a trigger and she evaded it. Had to retreat, disappear and again wait their buffs out. Another try and again she evaded it somehow. After another try I concluded she obviously had still something on that stopped it. Enough of this and decided to charm Vaxall, and Staff of Command worked this time. Turned into Iron Golem and wasted Shyressa in few seconds, then Layene and Revanek too, and Vaxall. That was easy enough. Got Staff of Magi which spells trouble, for others. Then stopped by the bank, called Guarded Compound, and robbed the place with Staff of Magi, Wand of Cloudkill combo. Got 50k gold again. Some small things still, like 3rd Time Stop scroll from North Forest and slapping Bodhi around. With PfU and MoD cleared upstairs, and together with Deva blasted Bodhi. Time to track Irenicus.
Suldanesselar ran through invisble, Nizi stoned, and Rillifane then cleansed the place. First encounter with Jon, waited his initial spell glory and summons out, then baited his Time Stop. Then he had second wind summons and True Sight, which I waited out with SI:Divination. When he didn't produce anymore spells when in sight, summoned 6 apr Deva and easily killed him.
Next I'm facing a troubled decision, what to take from Hell Trials? I only see F/M/C using FoA, DoEH, Crom Fayer and SoM. So str tears could be kind of wasted if I use Crom Fayer. And I don't plan to stick around with Melissan, but quickly slap her down, so save tears are kind of wasted. Maybe taking -10 AC is the optimal road?
I have parked Loreth for now trying some IWD 2 solo runs with HoF + Tactics + Light of Selune + the rework of @semiticgod. As i never played this game as much as BG its a real blast even though there are battles around each corner making progress rather slow without summons. But thanks to the improved DR scaling my mage hating Deep Gnome Barbarian is doing surprisingly well nearing Shaengarne Bridge without a single death so far. Most likely he will run into some deathtrap sooner or later but - hey - who cares?
EDIT: I think it does, because it's AC bonus, and applied differently than PfE and Improved Invisibility.
Started the battle against Irenicus with 4 Skelis, and quickly ran away looking from afar as the two Balor's killed Glabresuz, and Irenicus himself. This isn't fixed yet in SCS 32.1 it seems. Well maybe next time then. Illasera was lured away and killed in four rounds with Critical Strikes. She couldn't touch me with Entropy Shield on. First pocket plane challenge was casually passed with SoM+WoCK combo. Saradush landing Righteous Magic, Critical Strikes, Improved Haste and Hardiness.
Meeting with Gromnir. Thinned the mob first with SoM/SoC combo. Depleted Gromnirs GWW's and then smacked Eler Had, who's 90% immune to SoC. Lastly smacked Gromnir. Used one PfU for Master Wraith and the Undead. Yaga-Shura stronghold first level ran through with Sanctuary. Gave the name meaning for Brimstone, then charmed enough Fire Giants to kill Berenn. Imix didn't have anything for me so left him be and escaped the place. Clone attacked Nyalee during the cutscene, and after she was Smited and quickly finished.
Yaga-Shura's army now apparently has a homing beacon, and Yaga himself is immune to SoC too, but not for Critical Strike Harm. Looking his stats he's immune to Charm so Control Circlet doesn't work either. So the fight is a lot tougher for fighters now. Oasis met sudden sandstorm that killed all. Got 300k gold, bought Amkethran out and did the mundane guets. Second Pocket Plane challenge with summon door trick, and skelis handled others as me and Deva killed Tamoko and my clone. My clone was tough bastard with Carsomyr and GWW's, but when I Smited him, it was over.
Thinking of Sendai Enclave next which should be pretty easy with FMC.
It was fixed in SCS 32.3 three weeks ago.
We tricked Anadramatis by casting Far Sight and sending in Deva plus Elemental Prince as he wont turn hostile if you avoid to trigger his talking.
As we are not allowed to use any scrolls getting the Scroll of Reversal looked to be tricky but once we realized that Iycanth can be easily killed by stacking Spike Growth from out of his vision we could avoid fighting big bad Fil'Yissetat.
Abazigal and his Wyvern should be next but as we are low on time this will have to wait "a bit".
Good luck @histamiini even though we are sure you dont need it - no?
Nemesis vs. Sendai. First killed the Cleric statue which eliminates one Deva which could see through invisibility. Then started smoking the Drow. After using smoke 70 strong, there was only 5 enemies left. Buffed up and killed all but one. Then summoned 5 Skelis to kill the last one. Real Sendai arrived, and fed more Skelis to waste her spells, and Cloudkills to kill her summons. When her Mantle were out, buffed up and Smited her, and that was it. 3rd challenge was basic smacking, got Dark Taint.
Draconis Silenced out of sight and hacked to 1 hp, waited Silence out and he transformed to a Dragon. Hit 3x Pierce Magic trigger, Harm, Critical Strike, done. The Greater Werewyvern smacked with couple Critical Strikes. Tried same for Anadramatis, but she got Contingency after used Pierce Magic trigger, so I had to smack him the old way. Took 6 Critical Strikes or so. With 6 apr Deva easily blasted through Kuo-toa and then fetched the rope.
Quadruble Dragon ambush, the first Dragon took no less than 35 hits from Wand of Wonder, and it was making me slightly worried. But the next one got stoned just after 3 hits.
But then the game froze on the cutscene where third Dragon should spawn. I seem to have same problem than @Harpagornis Did you manage to fix that? Hopefully this isn't end of Nemesis.
* Scimitars
* Single-Weapon Style
weidu.log
// The top of the file is the 'oldest' mod
// ~TP2_File~ #language_number #component_number // [Subcomponent Name -> ] Component Name [ : Version]
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #1500 // Include arcane spells from Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #1510 // Include divine spells from Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #3505 // Wider selection of random scrolls: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #3551 // Increase the power of Cure Wounds and Cause Wounds spells to the level found in 3rd Edition D&D -> Spells heal or inflict the maximum amount of damage in this range: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4000 // Faster Bears: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4020 // More realistic wolves and wild dogs: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4030 // Improved shapeshifting: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4115 // Thieves assign skill points in multiples of five: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #4250 // Make spell sequencers and contingencies into innate abilities: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #5900 // Initialise AI components (required for all tactical and AI components): v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6000 // Smarter general AI: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6010 // Better calls for help: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6030 // Smarter Mages: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6040 // Smarter Priests: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6100 // Potions for NPCs: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6200 // Improved Spiders: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6300 // Smarter sirines and dryads: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6310 // Slightly smarter carrion crawlers: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #6320 // Smarter basilisks: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7000 // Improved doppelgangers: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7010 // Tougher Black Talons and Iron Throne guards: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7020 // Improved deployment for parties of assassins: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7030 // Improved kobolds: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7040 // Relocated bounty hunters: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7050 // Improved Ulcaster: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7060 // Improved Balduran's Isle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7070 // Improved Durlag's Tower: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7080 // Improved Demon Cultists: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7090 // Improved Cloakwood Druids: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7100 // Improved Bassilus: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7110 // Improved Drasus party: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7130 // Improved Red Wizards: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7140 // Improved Undercity assassins: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7200 // Tougher chapter-two end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7210 // Tougher chapter-three end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7220 // Tougher chapter-four end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7230 // Tougher chapter-five end battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7250 // Improved final battle: v32.4
~STRATAGEMS/SETUP-STRATAGEMS.TP2~ #0 #7900 // Improved minor encounters: v32.4
~LOB_SAVE_FIX/LOB_SAVE_FIX.TP2~ #0 #0 // improve saving throws of all non-joinable creatures
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3040 // Make Bags of Holding Bottomless: v9
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3080 // Increase Ammo Stack Size -> Unlimited Ammo Stacking: v9
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3100 // Increase Potion Stacking -> Unlimited Potion Stacking: v9
~EEUITWEAKS/EEUITWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1070 // Faydark's Abilities Auto-Roller/GrimLefourbe's BG2 UI: 3.0
After killing Algernon and listening Drizzt getting killed, bought Shield Amulet from Carnival. Tanya's Bowl 2500 xp, charmed Mellum hacked Kahrk for 3500 xp, Kirinhale 4000 xp, charmed Riggolo hacked Ghost for 3750 xp before getting killed by Ghasts, and I was already at level 5. Just about killed Dushai for the ring of Free Action after luring him away with WoMM. After getting the Worn Whispers from charming the Hobgoblin, having one Invisibility and three Healing potions I decided to go for Mulahey. Managed to get to Mulahey without using the Invisibility potion, and after few rests he was charmed. Had to use the only Invisibility potion as Mulahey again got panic attack and started wandering. But he was pretty quickly killed. Looted his corpse afar without Kobbos noticing, then used stealth to escape.
Charmed Minsc hacked and then smacked Nimbul, which took long ass time as he broke his weapon. Then charmed Marl ko'd Tranzig.
Next up Bandit Camp.
Cloakwood ran through casually with Monk speed and Ring of Free Action. Managed to charm Drasus first time, and he was fed to the guards for the speed boots. Stealthed to Davaeorn, and charmed the guard second try. Lured Battle Horrors away, invisibility from the ring, and guard then killed Davaeorn. Got to level 6. Then the guard distracted the Mustard Jelly as I looted the two chests, and then I left. Fetched the Cha and Con tomes, wasting one Sandthief charge escaping the Sirines. Con is useless for me because although Monk has fighter apr, it has arbitaritly has priest Con bonuses.
Getting the second green Protection from Petrification I went and commenced the Basilisk xp-loop, and then just about managed to stone whole Kirian's party. Charmed Abela the Nymph behind the rubble, and she ko'd Ragefast. With the Nymph cloak charmed Ramazith, depleted his spells, before his own Spider and Shadows killed him. Looted the place. Charmed Gamesmen ko'd Marek. Wisdom too is useless for Monk, but it annoys me to leave buffs unused. Dobbelgangers killed one by one with the help of Wand of Heavens. At Iron Throne only charmed Naaman for the PfU, and he was killed by Shennara.
At Candlekeep charmed Iron Throne leaders and after they fought themselves, I killed the last one with WoH. Catacombs looted with help of Absorption, Shield, Cloud Giant, Duhm and Ring of Free Action. Needed one Sandthief charge to not fight anybody. Used last Sandthief charge to feed Denak for Spiders for the Ring of Energy, after which I needed to fork 13k to recharge it. Durlag's Tower basement Ghasts were kited with WoH and OGL. Looted the Warder level with the help of Absorption, Icingdeath, PfF, Greenstone amulet and Sandthief ring. Activated Warders and managed to lure Fear and Avarice to the basement away from Love. Kited Love with Clarity and Ring of Energy. He could do nothing as Monk is immune to Slow, and after 35 hits he was dead. Looted the next level for Durlag's Goblet and Champion's Strength.
Slythe was lured away from Krystin and killed with charmed Larz and Wand of Heavens. For the Palace Ambush charmed the mage, shaman and assassin, and then killed the three Greater Dobbelgangers without much trouble. Assassin killed next. Shaman was the tamest as he didn't really get any spells out. Mage posed the most problems, but Liia's dispel at the beginning took most of his fight out. Did some item fetching before going to Sarevok.
Jin vs. Sarevok. His gang killed from out of sight with OGL. At one point Sarevok found me, but using Invisibility, they again ganged on themselves. Then hit Sarevok rest of the OGL's leaving 10 for Korlasz, Oil's of Fiery Burnings and with Potions of Explosions. And then started kiting him with Ring of Energy. At this point Sarevok had 484 hp left. Monk innate speed just about gives enough space against Hasted Sarevok get kiting working. And after 36 hits Sarevok fell too. Monk passes BG1 again using general tactics.
Chapter 8. Casually hacked Teleria and Stone Golem for the Stone Ally. Then listened Dwarves getting killed, picked up their amulets, used one PfU and enlisted the help of Undead.
Chapter 9. Morentherene daggered, Ziatar burned, Akanna charmed, fort surrendered, bridge mage interrupted with Ring of Energy and killed with the help of Stone Golem.
Chapter 10. Did the mundane guests for level 10. Ferrusk was charmed for the Ankheg amulet. Opened and closed the door to the Drow party to get the Cloak of Gargoyle, which is the only way to protect Monk from Critical Hits. They killed themselves. Escaped the basement with Invisibility.
Used the Undead for the Troll wave. First concentrated on the Trolls as I was the only one that could kill them. Then wiped the rest using Mephits, one Stone Ally and five Goblets.
Wizard Slayers for the mage wave. Mephits, Myconids and Stone Ally. 100% Detect Illusions nicely dispelled their Mirror Images and didn't need to use any Goblets.
Had to rebuff hp for the Paladin wave and also got -30 AC vs. crushing. Used four Ankhegs, which are nice damage dealers, first concentrating on killing Rhayla who could Dispel. Wasn't a close one and only needed 3 Goblets.
Final wave was the most trouble I've had in this run. Because I made a mistake of not rebuffing hp again.
After 50 rounds or so my hp were gone, allies got killed and after using all my Goblets I needed quickly some tactic, because Grimgor was still almost at full health. I still had plenty of summons, so I spammed them as I kited Grimgor with Ring of Energy, and after using the very last Myconid, he got finally killed.
Recharged all my stuff with Horst before waiting couple hours at Dragonspear battle, after which I had 62 Heroism and 32 Power potions. Ashatiel easily killed and Trix tricked
Monk Belhifet rematch probably tomorrow.
Buffed up for the lift except hp, and smacked through with fists as they've better Thac0 than swords. Ankhegs are good companions for the first two waves, but they'll get feared in the last. Left the last Bone Fiend with couple hp's before buffing for Bel.
Invulnerability, Clarity, 40 Heroism for 500 hp, Invulnerability, Clarity, Power, 6x Champion's Strength and Storm. This gives 50 rounds before hp bug starts to appear. Escaped Bel's Dispel and then just started hacking with 2.5 apr Tongue of Acid and Icingdeath. When my CS's started fading Bel was at injured state.
Used last of Champion's Strengths, in two stages refreshing health between. Violet, Fortitude, Power, Invulnerability, Clarity and now it was just a waiting game who falls first. At this point I started using Detect Illusions as it dispels Bel's Improved Invisibility giving +4 AC penalty. Both can be active if you just first attack and then press Detect Illusions. This isn't that good in the beginning with great Thac0, because he will disappear casting it time and again, which will take hitting time away.
In the end it was Bel who fell first, before my last CS was out, and I still had 7 Goblets left. Switched back for fists for Hephernaan and killed him too with the help of summons.
So Dark Moon Monk passes SoD, although not much to spare. Already anxious to try BG2 with a Monk.
Btw here's stats of the enemies of the last battle, with optimal loadout Monk can get 20's protection against lesser enemies in both slashing and missile damage. Although I was using Medal of Valor so Cornugons and Erinyes also hit with 19's.
2x Lemure 128 hp, -4 AC, 12 Thac0, 2 apr, 3 crushing dmg
1x Imp 134 hp, -12 AC, 13 Thac0, 2 apr, 2.5 piercing dmg
2nd wave
2x Hell Cat 254 hp, -9 AC, 7 Thac0, 4 apr, 6 slashing dmg
1x Black Abishai, 179 hp, -10 AC, 9 Thac0, 4 apr, 5.5 slashing dmg
3rd wave
1x Red Abishai 233 hp, -14 AC, 6 Thac0, 4 apr, 7.5 slashing dmg
1x Green Abishai 206 hp, -12 AC, 8 Thac0, 4 apr, 6.5 slashing dmg
1x Bone Fiend 200 hp, -8 AC, 7 Thac0, 5 apr, 11 slashing dmg
Final
Belhifet 1130 hp, -24 AC (Improved Invisibility), -12 Thac0, 4 apr, 24.5 slashing dmg, 25 DR
Hephernaan 350 hp, -18 AC, 4 Thac0, 4 apr, 7.5 slashing dmg
Cornugon 320 hp, -16 AC, 2 Thac0, 3 apr, 11 slashing dmg
Erinyes 224 hp, -13 AC, 2 Thac0, 2 apr, 7.5 missile dmg
Hamatula 248 hp, -14 AC, 6 Thac0, 4 apr, 11 slashing dmg
Also starts with Green Abishai, Red Abishai and Bone Fiend
Irenicus dungeon. The first Smoke Mephit was easily smacked without wasting any resources, Blur, Duhm and 3x stacked Frozen Fists. Also casually smacked the Jailkeep Golem for xp. Passed the Lightning Mephit and Duergar with stealth and picked the activation stone. Activated the Sewage Golem and looted the room, then locked the Mineral Mephit in the room. After a while got stealth again on and passed the Duergars and Ligthning Mephits second time to the corridoor where I killed the Smoke Mephit.
Then lured the four Duergars away from the next corridoor to the exit, passed them, and stealth then succeeded so they stopped following. Looted the key and some other stuff and left the level. Used Blur and lured the Mephits away from the room and shut the door. Monk innate speed helps here. Stealthed Thiefs and Duergars, then picked up Ring +1, and Blunt belt before escaping the place.
Looted Maevars guild hall and bought Nymph cloak. Suna Seni waylay passed with pre stealthing. Then robbed the Temple area, leveled up and got Mirror Image. Mephits lured away, and separated and killed. With couple Fire Resistance potions repetead the Fireball trap which killed Rayic. Maevar was pre Charmed with the Nymph cloak, then he cast Invisibility on me and I watched his gang kill him.
Fetched Potion case, then bought my reputation to 14. Tanners guest, Graveyard guests, and got another level up. Fists were now +2 with 3 apr. Sided with Bodhi first time ever, so we'll see how that goes. At least I get the one summon more from it. Bought Ring of Air Control for per day free Improved Invisibility, and fetched Belm +2. With Belm off hand I can have 5 apr with Fists, although with +4/+8 Thac0 penalty.
At Seven Vales managed to Charm Brennan who attacked Orcslicer and got killed. Got another per day free Invisibility. Only Amon followed to downstairs, so I level skipped his spells. Pebblecrusher was the next one to follow, Invisibility and the guard casually killed him. The same for Orcslicer. Tried to take Pooky 1on1 but he still packed a punch and had to retreat and drink health potions. Another try, and now he got killed. Another level up looting De'Arnise, although I left Glaicus be for now. Probably the first run for me not able to use FoA.
Something different next. Charmed the mage and cleric from the Captain Dennis party, escorted them out, depleted from spells and then killed them. Then charmed the two fighters which took some time, and just about killed Captain Dennis, before resorting too many Extra Healing potions. For my troubles I got Boomerang Dagger +2, 3 apr throwing dagger.
Neera helped me to Hidden Refuge, where I did the Mereth's fetching guest for Amulet +2. Then picked up first Monk head gear, Pale Green Ioun Stone for +1 Thac0 and +10% hp. Freed slaves in Copper Coronet, Beastmaster casually hacked before talking, without anyone agroing. Then did the rest of the sewers, Charmed the Kobold shaman for the guest item. Lured the Hobgoblins first on the Cloudkill trap, then the Slavers. Monk is immune for it. Skipped rest of the enemies. Prebek and Sanasha spells level skipped, then kicked everybody to ground. Got level 14 during the Harper Hold, which was a biggie, 42 MR bam. Did the Unseeing Eye guest to the point where I got half of the Rift Device.
Casually kicked the City Gates Lich after hitting it with PfU. Got third per day free Invisibility, and Daystar +2 which is the only good weapon for Monk against Undead. Windspear Paladins done one by one, with Improved Invisibility, Blur, Mirror Image, Duhm and four stacked Frozen Fists. For the Bandits I hid behind the room, then first killed the two Orcs, went outside and rested. Quivering Palm killed the Dwarf and then easily kicked the Cleric out. Tazok's gang was still too tough for frontal assault, and I almost got killed by Tazok critical. So I killed the Orc's first with rests and Quivering Palms, then kited Tazok with Boomerang dagger. Got the sewer key. Consters spells level skipped, and then he was easily dispatched with hitting even rolling 2's. Another level up to 15, massively improving my fists to 3.5 apr 1d20+3. Couple Stone Forms, Improved Invisibility to -5 saves, PfU for Alhoon, Absorption and picked up the WoW from Mindflayer Dungeon. Bought 57 Stone to Flesh scrolls and started Firkraag xp-loop. Got 4 level ups to level 19 from two full Wand of Wonders. Fists were now 4 apr which is the maximum speed.
Mekrath was easily dispatched at this point. Also using one Magic Protection potion I picked up the Warrior Horn and improved it twice. I now had my first summon. Was able to kill Paina and got Kitthix too. Crypt King easily punched out. Treya lured away with Boomerang Dagger and easily killed for the Thac0 cloak. Then I companied Rasaad to the City Gates. Amphitheather was basic smacking, got Ring of Duplication so I could now cast 5 Mirror Images per day. Did the easy Trials in Heretic Temple, getting Gem of Seeing (True Seeing per day), Gauntlets of Aln Zek (+3 dmg, 15% 1d10 Cold dmg) and Cloak of Atonement which has 30% chance of casting Armor of Faith. Testing the cloak, for Armor of Faith it's useless with just 5 DR. I checked it with Near Infinity and all effects are cast at level 15, and all other work, besides AoF. I wonder why it's bugged like that?
Neb easily killed with 5 stacked Frozen Fists. Finishing the Temple guests got to level 20. Easily smacked the two minor liches with single PfU. Kangaxx can still wait because I can't use MoD or Azuredge. From the next three WoW's I got 17 loops, enough for level 25. My Fists are now top of the line hitting as +4 weapons. Also got Smite. With Smite I easily killed the Djinni for the Efreeti bottle.
Watchers Keep 1st Level. Bought Sword of Flame to finish Trolls, and with one rest they were done. Vampriric Wraiths were separated, Smited and kicked out. The first four statues were separated and smacked without needing to rest, although I burned my RoR. Level 26 with maximum innate MR of 78. Got two statues killed from the next mob before I had to rest to get my abilities back. Then managed to take out the three weaker ones with single go. Then the Golem statue was killed. The two mage statues were depleted from spells including, PfMW, Time Stops and Planetars, after which I killed them pretty easily with Frozen Fists distrupting rest of their casting through Stoneskins. Also 140 stealth was good in here.
Watchers Keep 2nd Level. The two Fire Giants were tough without proper summons and DR, but after figuring Smite actually stunned them, it was piece of cake. Monk is the first character not Slowed in the Ice Laboratory for me. After smacking my way through the rest of the level and stoning Chromatic Demon, I got to level 29.
Time to face Kangaxx. Under PfU and out of sight first waited his Cornugon out, then Planetar. Then he stood still as I smacked him into the transformation. Lured the Swords out, Improved Invisibility, left them as he cast Remove Magic to them, which I evaded. But as I attacked him, he cast Remove Magic on me. Quickly used PfU on him, and waited his Swords out. Now he was doing nothing but running away then standing still as I punched him. It took awhile with his 90 DR, but eventually he got ko'd. With Ring of Gaxx I now had 88 MR.
Absolutely murdered the Shadow Thieves for the shipment. With innate -3, Duhm, Blur and Improved Invisibility I already had -20 AC. Chose the Heroic guest, and the Shadow Thieves were rather disappontment. Easily killed all. Then murdered Gaelan and the other thief easily. First floor of Shadow Thief hall exploded without healing, feeling pretty powerful now. Just before reaching Linvail I reached level 30. Then stormed the place and eventually slayed all. Either I'm really powerful or the Shadow Thieves are really weak. -21 AC, 100% Detect Illusions and Frozen Fists hitting through Stoneskins helps. Afterwards I realized it was actually Immunity to Normal Weapons which why the Shadow Thieves weren't touching me. Got Djinni summoning ring, and Ring +2. With Duhm, Blur, Improved Invisibility and Sensate Amulet my AC was now -23, -33 vs Missiles.
Killing Kalah was freaking fast. Smite, Detect Illusions to dispel Mirror Image, Whirlwind, done. Spent another WoW and got to level 32, level 33 after killing Glaicus.
Wathcers Keep 3rd level. Being evil I got free chance against Tahazzar. And its pretty easy to kill him with Wand of Wonder. Only trouble is that he has -23 AC, so it needs one additional round to cast Critical Strike, and his minions will agro. Which is why summons are needed to give additional time. My Efreeti got 20 roll so I didn't need Critical Strike. For Ka'rashur buffed hp to 420, Blur, Mirror Image, Duhm, Improved Invisiblity, Hardiness. Again managed to back up before dialogue, summoned my four minions as distraction, and attacked. First Smited Ka'rashur, and then four Whirlwinds was enough. Djinni was still alive at this point, picked up Ka'rashurs gem and escaped. With Aesgareth gamled once, winning the Spectral Brand +4. Needed 23 strikes from WoW to Petrify all Aesgareths minions. Also got to level 34. Summoned minions, Smited Aesgareth and he was dead before he recovered.
Fighters can stop all game ending effects from Deck of Many Things, with low enough saves, Charm protection etc. PfM and Shield of Archons from Cloak of Atonement can stop MAGICIAN, or polymorph to a rabbit. Summons can't be stopped, but using pointless levels you can leave, like crypts makes them safe. Only really negative effect that can't be stopped is EURYALE, or +1 penalty to saving throws. Only Spell Immunity can stop this, and fighters can't access it. All effects have equal chance of happening, so EURYALE has 1/6 chance. If you get EURYALE, you get 1/6 chance for 10hp and 5 FR to balance it. KEY (RING +3) and STAR (ability score +1) have both 1/18 chance of happening from the beginning. So it's a fair gamble I thin, but not going to bother this run though.