Specialized Non-weapon proficiency

[charbidge]

I'd like to create a speclalized Disguise non-weapon proficiency, namely, Cross-class Imposter. An individual with this proficiency can wear, handle, and use all of the gear common to a class he doesn't belong to, with the ease of practiced skill common to the members of the class he is imitating (like Danny Kaye, the comedian who couldn't dance a step, but could imitate a dancer perfectly).

Thus, a Rogue with this proficience could handle and wear medium armor, and use up to two Fighter's weapons as if he was a Fighter of his level. He couldn't use them in combat, but he would have the drill down convincingly enouth to absolutely fool any non-fighter, and well enough to fool a Fighter unless the Fighter had reason to suspect that the Rogue was a fake.

Save versus Wisdom, modified by the difference between the levels of the Rogue and potential victim, could be used to determine if the imposter succeeded.

I have a character who wants to join the war against Iuz (Risk, anyone?), with proficiencies in Tactics and Strategy that might prove quite valuable, but who would have a very hard time convincing the High Command to provide the opportunity. Appearing to be a warrior might provide a foot in the door. You have to get the job before you can DO the job.

[Andy]

Sounds like a standard OE Ninja to me. It's also not hard for an Assassin to convince someone he's a fighter, particularly when his damage bonus starts to catch up with a fighter's multiple proficiencies...

[David]

Howdy Craig,

I like it. There are a few similar proficiencies (weapon display, impersonate, disguise), but I think a non-weapon skill of "class impersonation" would be an interesting way for a non-X to pawn off being an X.

Please note, I wouldn't be cool with any combat or functional increases (no mages with this proficiency picking up claymores and using them well in combat), but the APPEARANCE of ability should be there (like JeanClaude van Damme, who is a trained acrobat but doesn't know squat about real martial arts).

How's that sound?

[charbidge]

That's pretty much what I had in mind. the impersonator can LOOK like the class, and convincingly ACT like the class, and use the class's stuff correctily and easily, but can't actually do the class stuff in combat.

[Stephanous]

This is a cool idea Craig.

[charbidge]

Glad you like it. Now, guess who wants to become a general?