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Updated guide to match character sheet exactly - removed inaccurate information, added missing abilities
Major rewrite for Level 8 rebuild: now Shadar-kai single-class Rogue (Raven's Shadow), INT-based subclass casting, Sneak Attack 4d6, Reaper's Strike, Soul Tokens, Cunning Strike, updated stats/skills/items/tactics
 
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= Gootcha Zinnoa - Player Guide =
= Gootcha Zinnoa - Player Guide =


'''Gootcha''' is a '''Level 8 Wood Half-Elf''' ('''Rogue 6 / Warlock 2''') with the Charlatan background. Gootcha is a member of the Harpers.
'''Gootcha''' is a '''Level 8 Shadar-kai Rogue''' (Raven's Shadow) with the Scribe background. Gootcha is a member of the Harpers and a sworn servant of the Raven Queen.
 
''This guide reflects Gootcha's current Level 8 rebuild. She is no longer a Half-Elf Rogue/Warlock - she is now a single-class Shadar-kai Rogue with the homebrew '''Raven's Shadow''' subclass. Her magic now runs on INTELLIGENCE through the subclass (not Warlock Pact Magic), her former Strength build is gone (STR is now her dump stat), and she has gained the Raven Queen's soul-token mechanics.''


== Overview ==
== Overview ==
'''Role in the Party:''' Stealth Striker, Skill/Knowledge Specialist, Anti-Heal Assassin, Utility Caster
'''Core Strengths:'''
* High burst damage (Sneak Attack 4d6 necrotic + Reaper's Strike anti-healing)
* Best infiltrator in the party (Stealth +10, Sleight of Hand +10, expertise)
* Elite knowledge/finder skills (Arcana +9, Investigation +9, Perception +7 - all expertise; Reliable Talent)
* Surprisingly durable for a rogue (Uncanny Dodge, Evasion, Necrotic Resistance, Blessing of the Raven Queen)
* INT-based subclass spellcasting from the necromancy/illusion lists
* Soul Tokens grant rare, game-bending Raven Queen effects
* A raven familiar for scouting and advantage setups


'''Core Stats:'''
'''Core Stats:'''
* '''AC:''' 16 (Light Armor)
* '''AC:''' 18 (Vaartox Studded Leather + DEX + Cloak of Protection)
* '''HP:''' 59 (Max)
* '''HP:''' 59 (Max)
* '''Speed:''' 30 ft.
* '''Speed:''' 30 ft
* '''Initiative:''' +3
* '''Initiative:''' +4
* '''Proficiency Bonus:''' +3
* '''Proficiency Bonus:''' +3


'''Ability Scores:'''
'''Ability Scores:'''
* STR 19 (+4) | DEX 17 (+3) | CON 14 (+2)
* STR 8 (-1) | DEX 19 (+4) | CON 14 (+2)
* INT 15 (+2) | WIS 10 (+0) | CHA 16 (+3)
* INT 16 (+3) | WIS 12 (+1) | CHA 10 (+0)


'''Saving Throws:'''
'''Saving Throws:'''
* Strength: +5
* Strength: +1
* Dexterity: +6 (+4 Bonus on saves; Advantage against being charmed; Advantage on Dex saves; Advantage against Fire Damage)
* Dexterity: +9 (Evasion; Advantage on DEX saves)
* Constitution: +2
* Constitution: +4
* Intelligence: +5
* Intelligence: +8 (proficient)
* Wisdom: +0
* Wisdom: +3
* Charisma: +6
* Charisma: +2
* Special: Advantage vs Charm (Fey Ancestry); +1 to all saves (Cloak of Protection, included above); Resistances to Cold, Fire, and Necrotic damage


'''Warlock Spell Save DC:''' 14 | '''Warlock Spell Attack Bonus:''' +6
'''Spell Save DC:''' 14 | '''Spell Attack Bonus:''' +6 | '''Spellcasting Ability:''' Intelligence (+3)


== COMBAT - What Can I Do On My Turn? ==
== COMBAT - What Can I Do On My Turn? ==
=== Basic Actions ===
* '''Attack, Cast a Spell, Dash, Disengage, Dodge, Help, Hide, Ready, Search, Utilize, Opportunity Attack, Grapple, Shove, Improvise'''


=== Weapon Attacks ===
=== Weapon Attacks ===
* '''Crossbow, Hand, +1:''' +7 to hit, 1d6+4 piercing (Martial, Ammunition, Range, Light, Loading, Vex, Range 30/120)
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Crossbow, Heavy, +1:''' +7 to hit, 1d10+4 piercing (Martial, Ammunition, Heavy, Loading, Range, Two-Handed, Slow, Range (100/400))
! Weapon !! Attack Bonus !! Damage Roll !! Type !! Range !! Mastery / Properties
* '''Rapier, +1:''' +8 to hit, 1d8+5 piercing (Martial, Finesse, Vex)
|-
* '''Shadowfell Crossbow, Light:''' +7 to hit, 1d8+4 piercing (Simple, Ammunition, Loading, Range, Two-Handed, Slow, Range (80/320))
| '''Shadowfell Crossbow, Light''' || +8 || 1d8+5 (+4d6 Sneak Attack) || Piercing || 80/320 ft || Slow; Ammunition, Loading, Two-Handed
* '''Shortsword, +1:''' +8 to hit, 1d6+5 piercing (Martial, Finesse, Light, Vex)
|-
* '''Raven's Reach:''' +6 to hit, 1d10 necrotic (Count: 2, V/S)
| '''Assassins Shortbow''' || +7 || 1d6+4 (+4d6 Sneak Attack) || Piercing || 80/320 ft || '''Vex''' (hit = Advantage on next attack vs target); Ammunition, Two-Handed
|}
'''Note:''' Gootcha is now a '''ranged/finesse rogue with DEX 19''' and a near-useless Strength (8). Do not melee with heavy weapons - your crossbow and shortbow are your real tools. With Crossbow Expert you ignore Loading and have no disadvantage firing in melee.


=== Special Combat Abilities ===
'''Attack/Damage Breakdown (Shadowfell Crossbow):''' +4 DEX, +3 Proficiency, +1 magic = '''+8 to hit'''; 1d8 +4 DEX +1 magic = '''1d8+5'''.


'''Sneak Attack (3d6 damage):'''
=== Sneak Attack (YOUR BREAD AND BUTTER) ===
* Once per turn when you hit with attack if you have Advantage OR at least one of your allies is within 5 ft of target, ally doesn't have Incapacitated condition, and you don't have Disadvantage on attack roll.
'''Sneak Attack Damage: 4d6''' (Rogue 8, average 14). Once per turn, with a Finesse or Ranged weapon, when you have Advantage OR an ally is within 5 ft of the target (and you don't have Disadvantage).
* Extra damage = 3d6 necrotic (Phantom feature makes it necrotic).
* '''Reaper's Strike (subclass):''' When you deal Sneak Attack damage you may make it '''Necrotic''' AND/OR make the target '''unable to regain hit points until the start of your next turn.''' The anti-healing rider is huge against trolls, clerics, vampires, and any self-healing boss.
* '''How to turn it on every turn:''' Steady Aim (bonus action, Advantage if you didn't move), Cunning Action: Hide, your Vex shortbow, your raven's Help action, Hex of the Fated, or simply standing near a frontline ally.


'''Cunning Action (Bonus Action):'''
=== Cunning Strike (NEW - spend Sneak Attack dice for riders) ===
* Take one of following as Bonus Actions: Dash, Disengage, or Hide.
When you deal Sneak Attack damage you can trade dice for an effect (remove the die before rolling):
{| class="wikitable"
! Effect !! Cost !! Result
|-
| '''Poison''' || 1d6 || DC 15 CON save or Poisoned 1 min (needs Poisoner's Kit - you are proficient)
|-
| '''Trip''' || 1d6 || Large or smaller: DC 15 DEX save or Prone
|-
| '''Withdraw''' || 1d6 || Move up to half your Speed with no Opportunity Attacks
|}
'''Tip:''' Trip is great to set up Advantage for the party; Withdraw keeps you safe after a kill; Poison adds soft control. You sacrifice a little damage for control - usually worth it once a target is already low.


'''Uncanny Dodge:'''
=== Subclass Magic - Raven's Shadow Spellcasting ===
* When attacker you can see hits you with attack, you can use Reaction to halve attack's damage against you (round down).
Gootcha's spells come from the Raven's Shadow subclass and use '''Intelligence''' (DC 14, +6 to hit). Cantrips are from the wizard list; leveled spells are necromancy/illusion. She has '''4 first-level and 2 second-level slots'''.
'''Cantrips (at will):'''
{| class="wikitable"
! Cantrip !! Effect !! When to Use
|-
| '''Chill Touch''' || 2d10 necrotic (touch range), target can't regain HP || Anti-heal poke; pairs with Reaper's Strike theme
|-
| '''Raven's Reach''' || 1d10 necrotic, 120 ft (rolls count of 2) || Primary ranged cantrip; works with Queen's Guidance
|-
| '''Mage Hand''' || Telekinetic utility || Traps, levers, fetching
|}
'''Prepared Spells:'''
{| class="wikitable"
! Spell !! Level !! Cast Time !! Effect !! Save !! When to Use
|-
| '''Hex (Hex of the Fated)''' || 1st || 1 Bonus Action || +1d6 necrotic per hit; '''target also has Disadvantage on saves of the chosen ability''' || None (Conc.) || Open big fights; pick the ability your control spells will target
|-
| '''Cause Fear''' || 1st || 1 Action || Frighten a creature || WIS 14 || Shut down a melee bruiser
|-
| '''Color Spray''' || 1st || 1 Action || Blind creatures (HP-total effect) || - || Burst-blind a cluster; blinded = you get Advantage
|-
| '''Ray of Sickness''' || 1st || 1 Action || 2d8 poison + possible Poisoned || CON 14 || Ranged damage + debuff
|-
| '''Tasha's Hideous Laughter''' || 1st || 1 Action || Prone + Incapacitated || WIS 14 || Hard control on one enemy
|-
| '''Mage Armor''' || 1st || 1 Action || Base AC 13+DEX (not needed - you wear armor) || - || Backup if disarmed of armor
|-
| '''Find Familiar''' || 1st (ritual, free) || - || Summon your raven || - || Always have it out - scouting + Help for Advantage
|-
| '''Ray of Enfeeblement''' || 2nd || 1 Action || Halve target's STR-weapon damage || CON 14 || Neuter a melee boss
|-
| '''Silence''' || 2nd || 1 Action || No sound in 20 ft sphere || None (Conc.) || Hard-counter enemy casters; stealth
|}
'''Hex of the Fated synergy:''' Cast Hex and name (e.g.) Wisdom - now the target has Disadvantage on WIS saves, so your Cause Fear / Tasha's / Hypnotic Pattern land far more reliably. This is your signature combo.


=== Rogue Features ===
=== Raven's Shadow Subclass Features ===
* '''Expertise:''' Double proficiency in 6 skills of choice (2 at 3rd and 10th level)
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Sneak Attack:''' Deal 3d6 extra damage once per turn when conditions met
! Feature !! Effect !! Notes
* '''Thieves' Cant:''' Know secret language and signs of rogues
|-
* '''Cunning Action:''' Bonus action for Dash, Disengage, or Hide
| '''Death's Companion''' || Raven familiar (ritual Find Familiar, free); telepathic bond + see through its senses within 100 ft || Scout ahead; have it Help an ally/you for Advantage = free Sneak Attack
* '''Uncanny Dodge:''' Halve damage from one attack (Reaction)
|-
* '''Roving:''' +10 ft movement speed
| '''Reaper's Strike''' || Sneak Attack can become Necrotic and/or stop the target from healing until your next turn || Anti-heal is your niche vs regenerating/healing foes
* '''Rogue Subclass - Phantom:'''
|-
** '''Whispers of the Dead:''' Whenever you finish short or long rest, choose one skill or tool proficiency you lack and gain proficiency. Can lose this proficiency when you use feature again, have Incapacitated condition, or die. You can use this feature to choose a different proficiency when you use this feature again.
| '''Hex of the Fated''' || Hex always prepared, cast with a rogue slot; adds Disadvantage on saves of the chosen ability || Force-multiplies your control spells
** '''Wails from the Grave:''' Immediately after you deal Sneak Attack damage to creature on your turn, target 2nd creature you can see within 30 ft. Roll half Sneak Attack dice (17th) also deal necrotic damage to first creature. You can use this proficiency number of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and regain all expended uses when finish long rest.
|-
** '''Tokens of the Departed:''' As reaction after you deal Sneak Attack damage to creature on turn, target soul trinket. Soul fragments called soul trinkets can ask them questions. While soul trinket is on person, you have Advantage on Death saving throws and Constitution saving throws, for you can't die. You also gain one special benefit while holding trinket. When you use this feature, souls can't have another 'Whispers' associated with it until you finish Long Rest.
| '''Pact of the Raven Queen''' || '''Soul Reaper:''' a creature you drop to 0 with Sneak Attack has its soul claimed (only wish/Divine Intervention can revive). '''Tokens of the Damned:''' claim Soul Tokens from "cheaters of death" || See Soul Tokens below
|}


=== Warlock Features (Pact of the Blade) ===
=== Soul Tokens (Your Signature Resource) ===
* '''Eldritch Invocations:''' Magical abilities (Lessons of the First Ones)
Soul Tokens are rare trophies taken when you kill a creature that previously escaped death (resurrected beings, liches, vampires, pact-bound creatures, etc. - DM's call). You can hold up to '''your character level (8)'''. '''You currently hold 2:''' ''Lord Valtheran'' (a bronze coin) and the ''Nameless Assassin'' (a black crossbow bolt). Spend one (usually an Action) for one of:
** '''Fiendish Vigor:''' Cast False Life on yourself without expending spell slot. When cast spell with feature, automatically succeed number on die.
{| class="wikitable"
** '''Lessons of the First Ones:''' Gain one Origin feat of choice
! Effect !! What It Does
* '''Pact Magic:''' Cast spells
|-
* '''Pact of the Blade:''' Bond with magic weapon
| '''The Raven Queen's Counsel''' || Ask the goddess one question about past/present/any future; answered truthfully and in detail
** '''Pact of the Blade: Bond:''' 1 Bonus Action - bond with weapon you touch. Can't bond with magic weapon if someone else attuned to it or another Warlock is bonded with it. Until bond ends, you're proficient with it and can use it as Spellcasting Focus.
|-
** '''Pact of the Blade: Conjure:''' As Bonus Action, conjure pact weapon in your hand, or create bond with magic weapon you touch. Can't bond with magic weapon if someone else attuned to it or another Warlock is bonded with it.
| '''Stolen Vitality''' || Regain ALL spell slots, OR all Hit Dice, OR full HP, OR remove diseases/curses/exhaustion (you or an ally you touch)
* '''Pact Magic:''' Warlock spell slots
|-
** Your bond with weapons ends if you use this feature's Bonus Action again, if weapon is more than 5 ft away from you for more than 1 minute, or if you die. Conjured weapon disappears when bond ends.
| '''Reaper's Verdict''' || On a Sneak Attack hit: auto-crit with '''maximized''' dice + 2x rogue level necrotic; a kill delivers the soul to the Queen
|-
| '''Threshold Walk''' || Plane shift (Material/Shadowfell/Ethereal) for up to 7, or teleport the group to any place you can picture
|-
| '''The Queen's Veto''' || Reaction: a creature within 60 ft that would drop to 0/die is instead healed to half max HP (revives the recently dead too) - at a price
|}
'''Use them wisely.''' These are some of the most powerful options any party member has. Counsel = plot solver. Stolen Vitality = a free short/long rest mid-dungeon. Reaper's Verdict = "delete the boss" button. Queen's Veto = a party member's life-insurance. Don't sit on all of them forever, but they don't recharge - they're earned.


=== Warlock Spells ===
=== Defensive Abilities ===
'''Patron: Raven Queen's Patronage'''
{| class="wikitable"
! Ability !! Effect !! Resource !! When to Use
|-
| '''Uncanny Dodge''' || Halve damage from one attack you can see || Reaction, 1/round || Big hits
|-
| '''Evasion''' || DEX save for half = take none on success, half on fail || Always || Fireballs, breath weapons
|-
| '''Blessing of the Raven Queen''' || Teleport 30 ft + resistance to ALL damage until your next turn || 3/Long Rest || Escape, reposition, tank a hit
|-
| '''Necrotic Resistance''' || Resistance to necrotic damage || Always || Shadar-kai trait
|-
| '''Cloak of Protection''' || +1 AC and +1 to all saves || Attuned || Always on
|-
| '''Ring of Warmth''' || Cold resistance; tolerate cold environments || Attuned || Cold climates / cold damage
|-
| '''Advantage on DEX Saves / vs Charm''' || Racial traits || Always || Traps, charms
|}


=== Bonus Actions ===
=== Bonus Actions ===
* '''Cunning Action:''' Dash, Disengage, or Hide
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Pact of the Blade: Conjure:''' Summon or bond pact weapon
! Ability !! Effect !! Resource
* '''Blessing of the Raven Queen (3/Long Rest):''' Magically teleport up to 30 ft to unoccupied space you can see. Starting at 3rd level, also gain resistance to all damage when you teleport using this trait.
|-
| '''Steady Aim''' || Advantage on next attack this turn (if you haven't moved; Speed becomes 0) || Always (don't-move tradeoff)
|-
| '''Cunning Action: Hide / Dash / Disengage''' || Reposition / hide for Advantage / escape || Always
|-
| '''Hex''' || Mark target, +1d6 necrotic + save Disadvantage || Rogue slot or Patron's Signet charge
|-
| '''Blessing of the Raven Queen''' || Teleport 30 ft + resistance || 3/LR
|-
| '''Expeditious Retreat / Shadow Blade''' || Dash each turn / conjure a 2d8 psychic advantage-blade || Ring / Patron's Signet charges
|}


=== Reactions ===
=== Reactions ===
* '''Uncanny Dodge:''' Halve one attack's damage
{| class="wikitable"
! Reaction !! Trigger !! Effect
|-
| '''Uncanny Dodge''' || Hit by a visible attack || Halve the damage
|-
| '''Opportunity Attack''' || Enemy leaves reach || Melee attack
|-
| '''The Queen's Veto''' || Ally/you would hit 0 HP within 60 ft || Spend a Soul Token to heal them to half max
|}


=== Special Features ===
=== Passive Abilities (Always On) ===
* '''Harpers - Rank 1 - Initiate of Secrets:''' Gain proficiency and expertise
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Crossbow Expert:''' Ignore Loading property; +1 Dex
! Ability !! Effect
* '''Ignore Loading:''' You ignore Loading property of crossbows. When make extra attack as result of using weapon that has Light property, can add your ability modifier to damage of extra attack if attack hits.
|-
* '''Dual Wielding:''' When make extra attack with Light property, add ability modifier.
| '''Sneak Attack''' || +4d6 (necrotic via Reaper's Strike) once per turn when conditions met
* '''Mask of the Wild:''' Can attempt to hide even when only lightly obscured
|-
* '''Half-Elf Variant:''' Half-elf of wood elf descent can forgo Skill Versatility and instead choose Elf Weapon Training or Fleet of Foot. Mask of Wild. You can replace all the Proficiencies from your Elf Training trait with Proficiency in one Skill of your choice.
| '''Reliable Talent''' || Treat any d20 of 9 or lower as a 10 on proficient skill/tool checks
* '''Skilled:''' Gain proficiency in 3 skills or tools of choice
|-
* '''Charlatan Ability Score Improvements:''' +3 to Charisma
| '''Evasion''' || No damage on a successful DEX save for half
* '''Raven Queen's Patronage:''' Made pact with Raven Queen
|-
** '''Raven Familiar:''' Additional Warlock Scales & Cantrips, Charismatic (+1 Charisma), Soul Capture for Raven's Reach cantrip or Pact Magic Spell slots
| '''Expertise''' || Double proficiency: Stealth, Sleight of Hand, Investigation, Perception, Arcana
* '''Blessing of the Raven Queen:''' 3/Long Rest, 1 Bonus Action
|-
* '''Raven Queen's Patronage - Blessing:''' Teleport up to 30 ft and gain resistance
| '''Crossbow Expert''' || Ignore Loading; no disadvantage firing in melee; dual-wield damage rider
* '''Harpers - Rank 1 - Initiate of Secrets:''' Gain proficiency and expertise
|-
* '''Raven's Watch:''' 1/Short Rest, Special
| '''Darkvision''' || 60 ft
 
|-
=== Magic Items (Attuned) ===
| '''Trance''' || 4-hour rest; gain 2 weapon/tool proficiencies each long rest
* '''Vaartox Studded Leather:''' Magic armor (AC 13 + Dex)
|}
* '''Circlet of Commanding Presence:''' +2 charisma checks
* '''Cloak of Protection:''' +1 AC and saves
 
== Spells ==
 
=== Cantrips (At Will) ===
* '''Blade Ward:''' Protection (Warlock, 1A, Self, V,S, concentration up to 1 minute) PHB-2024 247 (D: 1m, V/S)
* '''Raven's Reach:''' +6 to hit, 1A, 120 ft, V,S, instantaneous - Count: 2, V/S
* '''Toll the Dead:''' WIS 14, 1A, 60 ft, V,S, instantaneous - PHB-2024 334 (V/S)
* '''Spare the Dying:''' Save dying creature (Raven Queen's Patronage, 1A, 15 ft, V,S, instantaneous) PHB-2024 318 (V/S)
 
=== 1st Level - Warlock (2 Pact Slots) ===
* '''Hex:''' Deal extra 1d6 necrotic (Warlock, 1BA, 90 ft, V,S,M, concentration up to 1 hour) PHB-2024 285 (D: 1h, V/S/M)
* '''Tasha's Hideous Laughter:''' WIS 14, 1A, 30 ft, V,S,M, concentration up to 1 minute - PHB-2024 331 (D: 1m, V/S/M)
* '''Hellish Rebuke:''' DEX 14, 1R, 60 ft, V,S, instantaneous - PHB-2024 284 (V/S)
* '''Disguise Self:''' Change appearance (Harpers Signet Ring, 1A, Self, V,S, 1 hour) PHB-2024 282 (D: 1h, V/S)
* '''Expeditious Retreat:''' Increase movement (Harpers Signet Ring, 1BA, Self, V,S, concentration up to 10 minutes) PHB-2024 270 (1 Charge (3/3), D: 10m, V/S)
* '''Magic Missile:''' Auto-hit damage (Wand of Magic Missiles, 1A, 120 ft, V,S, instantaneous) PHB-2024 256 (1 Charge (6/7), V/S)
* '''Cause Fear:''' WIS 14, 1A, 60 ft, V, concentration up to 1 minute - Raven Queen's Patronage (XGIE 151, D: 1m, V)
* '''False Life:''' Gain temp HP (Eldritch Invocations, 1A, Self, V,S,M, instantaneous) PHB-2024 271 (V/S/M)
 
=== 3rd Level ===
* '''Gaseous Form:''' Transform into mist (Harpers Signet Ring, 1A, Touch, V,S,M, concentration up to 1 hour) PHB-2024 277 (1 Charge (5/5), Creature: One additional creature for each spell slot level above 3rd (V; D: 1h, V/S/M)


== SOCIAL SITUATIONS ==
== SOCIAL SITUATIONS ==
''Important change: Charisma is now 10 (+0) - Gootcha is no longer the party face she was as a Charlatan/Warlock. Her social value now comes from INTELLIGENCE skills, deception via disguises, and information.''


=== Skill Bonuses ===
=== Skill Bonuses ===
* '''Acrobatics (DEX):''' +9 (Expertise)
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Animal Handling (WIS):''' +0
! Skill !! Bonus !! Notes
* '''Arcana (INT):''' +8 (Expertise)
|-
* '''Athletics (STR):''' +4
| '''Sleight of Hand (DEX)''' || +10 || Expertise - pickpocket, palm, plant evidence
* '''Deception (CHA):''' +9 (Expertise)
|-
* '''History (INT):''' +5
| '''Stealth (DEX)''' || +10 || Expertise - best sneak in the party
* '''Insight (WIS):''' +3
|-
* '''Intimidation (CHA):''' +3
| '''Arcana (INT)''' || +9 || Expertise (Harper Initiate) - magic lore
* '''Investigation (INT):''' +8 (Expertise)
|-
* '''Medicine (WIS):''' +0
| '''Investigation (INT)''' || +9 || Expertise - find clues, hidden things
* '''Nature (INT):''' +2
|-
* '''Perception (WIS):''' +0
| '''Perception (WIS)''' || +7 || Expertise - notice everything
* '''Performance (CHA):''' +3
|-
* '''Persuasion (CHA):''' +6
| '''Acrobatics (DEX)''' || +7 || Tumble, balance, escape grapples
* '''Religion (INT):''' +2
|-
* '''Sleight of Hand (DEX):''' +6 (Expertise)
| '''Nature (INT)''' || +6 || Proficient (Scribe)
* '''Stealth (DEX):''' +9 (Expertise)
|-
* '''Survival (WIS):''' +3
| '''Insight (WIS)''' || +4 || Read people
|-
| '''Deception / Performance (CHA)''' || +3 || Proficient despite CHA 0
|-
| '''History / Religion (INT)''' || +3 || Knowledge
|-
| '''Persuasion / Intimidation (CHA)''' || +0 || Avoid leading with these
|}
'''Reliable Talent:''' On any of the skills above you can't roll below a 10 on the die - so your expertise skills (Stealth/Sleight/Arcana/Investigation +9/+10) effectively never fail at routine tasks.


=== Passive Scores ===
=== Passive Scores ===
* '''Passive Perception:''' 10
* '''Passive Investigation:''' 19 (elite - you spot hidden things automatically)
* '''Passive Insight:''' 13
* '''Passive Perception:''' 17
* '''Passive Investigation:''' 18
* '''Passive Insight:''' 14


=== Senses ===
=== How to Contribute Socially (with CHA 0) ===
* '''Darkvision:''' 90 ft
* '''Be the spy, not the diplomat.''' Disguise Self (Harpers Ring) + your Deception proficiency lets you BE someone else rather than out-talk people. Infiltration is your lane.
* '''Be the lore engine.''' Arcana +9, Investigation +9, History/Religion +3, plus The Raven Queen's Counsel (Soul Token) make you the party's answer to "what is this and how do we beat it?"
* '''Whispers / Trance proficiencies:''' Your Shadar-kai Trance grants two weapon/tool proficiencies each rest - pick what the situation needs.
* '''Thieves' Cant''' for covert messages.


=== Social Features ===
=== Social Features ===
* '''Thieves' Cant:''' Secret rogue language
* '''Disguise Self''' (Harpers Signet Ring): become someone else for 1 hour
* '''Expertise:''' Double proficiency in Acrobatics, Arcana, Deception, Investigation, Sleight of Hand, Stealth
* '''The Raven Queen's Counsel''' (Soul Token): truthful answers to any one question
* '''Whispers of the Dead:''' Gain temporary skill/tool proficiency after rest
* '''Scribe Background:''' calligraphy, forgery-adjacent document work
* '''Charlatan:''' False identity and forgery skills
* '''Harpers Member:''' covert network access
* '''Harpers Signet Ring:''' +2 charisma checks via Circlet of Commanding Presence
* '''Raven Familiar:''' eavesdrop and scout via telepathic bond
* '''Fancy Clothes:''' +2 charisma checks


=== Languages ===
=== Languages ===
* Celestial, Draconic, Halfling, Primordial, Thieves' Cant
* Common, Draconic, Sylvan, Thieves' Cant


== EXPLORATION ==
== EXPLORATION ==
=== Movement & Senses ===
* '''Walking Speed:''' 30 ft (40 with Expeditious Retreat / Cunning Action Dash up to 60)
* '''Darkvision:''' 60 ft
* '''Teleports:''' Blessing of the Raven Queen 30 ft (3/LR); Queen's Guidance 30 ft to a target (1/LR); Threshold Walk (Soul Token)
* '''Raven familiar:''' scout up to 100 ft via shared senses


=== Movement ===
=== Useful Exploration Abilities ===
* '''Walking Speed:''' 30 ft (base) + 10 ft (Roving) = 40 ft total
* '''Stealth +10 / Sleight of Hand +10''' (expertise + Reliable Talent)
* '''Darkvision:''' 90 ft
* '''Investigation +9 / Perception +7''' (expertise) - find traps, doors, clues
 
* '''Disguise Self / Gaseous Form''' (Harpers Ring) - infiltrate, slip through gaps
=== Useful Abilities for Exploration ===
* '''Find Familiar (ritual, free)''' - send the raven ahead
* '''Cunning Action:''' Extra mobility via Dash
* '''Thieves' Tools, Poisoner's Kit, Calligrapher's Supplies''' (proficient)
* '''Mask of the Wild:''' Hide when lightly obscured
* '''Disguise Self:''' Change appearance (1 hour)
* '''Expeditious Retreat:''' Double movement via Dash bonus action
* '''Blessing of the Raven Queen:''' Teleport 30 ft (3/Long Rest)
* '''Raven's Watch:''' Special sight ability (1/Short Rest)
 
=== Tools ===
* '''Disguise Kit:''' Create disguises
* '''Forgery Kit:''' Create false documents
* '''Thieves' Tools:''' Pick locks and disarm traps


== RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ==
== RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Resource !! Total !! Recharges
! Resource !! Total !! Recharge !! Notes
|-
| '''Hit Dice''' || 6d8 + 2d8 || Long Rest
|-
| '''Sneak Attack''' || 3d6 (1/turn) || Always Available
|-
| '''Cunning Action''' || Unlimited || Always Available
|-
| '''Uncanny Dodge''' || 1/round || Always Available
|-
| '''Warlock Spell Slots''' || 2 Pact Slots || Short/Long Rest
|-
|-
| '''Whispers of the Dead''' || 1 skill/tool || Short/Long Rest
| Sneak Attack || 4d6, 1/turn || Always || Use every turn
|-
|-
| '''Wails from the Grave''' || 3 uses || Long Rest
| Cunning Action / Steady Aim || Unlimited || Always || Hide/Dash/Disengage or Advantage
|-
|-
| '''Blessing of the Raven Queen''' || 3 uses || Long Rest
| Uncanny Dodge || 1/round || Always || Halve a big hit
|-
|-
| '''Fiendish Vigor (False Life)''' || At Will || -
| Spell Slots (1st) || 4 || Long Rest || Hex, control, Ray of Sickness
|-
|-
| '''Pact of the Blade''' || At Will || -
| Spell Slots (2nd) || 2 || Long Rest || Silence, Ray of Enfeeblement, upcasts
|-
|-
| '''Raven's Watch''' || 1 use || Short Rest
| Blessing of the Raven Queen || 3 || Long Rest || Teleport + resistance
|-
|-
| '''Circlet of Commanding Presence''' || Always Active (+2 Cha checks) || -
| Queen's Guidance || 1 || Long Rest || Teleport 30 ft to a target + Advantage on the attack action
|-
|-
| '''Cloak of Protection''' || Always Active (+1 AC/saves) || -
| The Patron's Signet || 5 charges || (item) || Hex / Shadow Blade / Hypnotic Pattern
|-
|-
| '''Harpers Signet Ring Spells''' || Multiple charges || Varies
| Harpers Signet Ring || 3 charges || Dawn || Disguise Self / Expeditious Retreat / Gaseous Form
|-
|-
| '''Wand of Magic Missiles''' || 6/7 charges || Unknown
| Soul Tokens || 2 held (max 8) || Earned only || Counsel / Stolen Vitality / Reaper's Verdict / Threshold Walk / Queen's Veto
|}
|}


== QUICK REFERENCE ==
== COMMON TACTICS ==
=== Opening Combat (Turn 1) ===
'''Standard burst opening:'''
# '''Bonus Action:''' Steady Aim (Advantage, if you can hold position) or Cunning Action: Hide.
# '''Action:''' Shoot the Shadowfell Crossbow (+8). With Advantage you land Sneak Attack.
# '''Reaper's Strike:''' Make it necrotic + no healing on the target.
'''Control-first opening (vs a tough target):'''
# '''Bonus Action:''' Hex of the Fated, naming the save your follow-up will target (e.g. WIS).
# Next turns: Tasha's/Cause Fear/Hypnotic Pattern land with the target at Disadvantage, and every hit adds +1d6.
 
=== During Combat - Striker Role ===
* Get Advantage (Steady Aim, Hide, Vex shortbow, raven Help, Queen's Guidance) and land your one Sneak Attack per turn - it's ~14 damage on top of the weapon.
* Use '''Reaper's Strike's anti-heal''' on any boss that regenerates or has a healer.
* Spend a die on '''Cunning Strike: Trip''' to knock a key enemy prone (party gets Advantage) or '''Withdraw''' to retreat safely after the shot.
* '''Queen's Guidance (1/LR):''' teleport up to 30 ft to a target and get Advantage on the whole attack action - a guaranteed Sneak Attack from nowhere.
 
=== Anti-Caster / Anti-Healer Playbook ===
* '''Silence''' on an enemy spellcaster denies all Verbal-component spells (no save).
* '''Reaper's Strike / Chill Touch''' stop healing - shut down clerics, trolls, vampires.
* '''Hex of the Fated''' + Cause Fear/Tasha's locks down a single dangerous caster.
 
=== Boss Fight Tactics ===
# Hex of the Fated turn 1; keep concentration.
# Steady Aim each turn for reliable Sneak Attacks; apply Reaper's Strike anti-heal.
# Save '''Uncanny Dodge''' for the boss's biggest hit; '''Evasion''' covers AoE.
# '''Blessing of the Raven Queen''' to teleport out of danger with resistance.
# When the boss is low, consider '''Reaper's Verdict''' (Soul Token) for a maximized auto-crit to end it - especially apt against creatures that have cheated death.
 
=== Multi-Enemy Tactics ===
* '''Color Spray / Hypnotic Pattern''' (Patron's Signet) to blind/incapacitate a cluster.
* Blinded enemies grant you Advantage = Sneak Attack online.
* '''Cunning Strike: Trip''' to drop a runner; '''Withdraw''' to peel away.


'''In Combat:'''
=== Special Situations ===
# Hide (Cunning Action bonus action) to get Advantage
* '''Surrounded:''' Cunning Action Disengage, Blessing of the Raven Queen, or Gaseous Form (ring).
# Attack with Sneak Attack (3d6 extra damage)
* '''Can't get Sneak Attack:''' Steady Aim, send the raven to Help, or use a Vex hit to set up next turn.
# Use Wails from the Grave to damage second target (half Sneak Attack dice)
* '''Ally dying:''' The Queen's Veto (Soul Token) heals them to half max as a reaction; or Stolen Vitality to top the party off.
# Use Uncanny Dodge reaction to halve incoming damage
* '''Out of slots mid-dungeon:''' Stolen Vitality (Soul Token) restores all of them.
# Use Raven's Reach cantrip for ranged necrotic damage


'''Before Combat:'''
== QUICK REFERENCE ==
# Cast Hex on priority target (bonus action, concentration)
=== Combat Priority Checklist ===
# Position for Sneak Attack opportunities
# Can I get Advantage (Steady Aim / Hide / raven Help / Vex)? Set up Sneak Attack.
# Consider using Disguise Self or Expeditious Retreat
# Should I Hex of the Fated first (control coming up)?
# Shoot with the crossbow/shortbow; apply Reaper's Strike (necrotic + no-heal).
# Spend a Sneak die on Trip/Withdraw/Poison if useful.
# Reaction: Uncanny Dodge a big hit; Queen's Veto to save a dying ally.


'''Concentration Spells (can only have ONE active):'''
=== Key Numbers ===
* Blade Ward, Hex, Tasha's Hideous Laughter, Expeditious Retreat, Gaseous Form
* Shadowfell Crossbow: '''+8''', 1d8+5; Assassins Shortbow: '''+7''', 1d6+4 (Vex)
* Sneak Attack: '''4d6 necrotic''' (~14), once per turn
* Spell Save DC '''14''' | Spell Attack '''+6''' | INT spellcasting (+3)
* AC '''18''' | HP '''59''' | Speed '''30 ft''' | Darkvision '''60 ft'''
* Passive Investigation '''19''' | Stealth/Sleight '''+10'''


'''Key Numbers to Remember:'''
=== Remember These Critical Things ===
* Sneak Attack: '''3d6 necrotic'''
# '''You are a single-class Rogue now''' - no Warlock slots, no Pact of the Blade; magic is INT-based subclass casting.
* Spell Save DC: '''14'''
# '''Sneak Attack is 4d6 and once per turn''' - always set up Advantage.
* Spell Attack: '''+6'''
# '''Reaper's Strike stops healing''' - your anti-heal niche.
* AC: '''16'''
# '''Hex of the Fated + a control spell''' is your signature combo (save Disadvantage).
* Uncanny Dodge: '''Halve damage (reaction)'''
# '''Soul Tokens are precious''' - Counsel, Stolen Vitality, Reaper's Verdict, Queen's Veto.
* Wails from the Grave: '''Half Sneak Attack dice to second target'''
# '''Steady Aim costs your movement''' - line up the shot first.
# '''STR is 8''' - never melee with brute weapons; stay ranged and finesse.


'''Resistances:'''
=== Common Mistakes to Avoid ===
* Fire Resistance
# Playing her like the old Warlock build (Pact weapon, Hellish Rebuke, CHA face) - that character is gone.
* Advantage against being charmed
# Forgetting Sneak Attack or attacking twice for less total damage.
* Advantage on Dex saves
# Moving and then trying to use Steady Aim (it requires you stay put).
* Immunity to Magical Sleep
# Hoarding every Soul Token forever - use Stolen Vitality / Veto when the party needs it.
# Meleeing with STR 8.
# Forgetting the raven - it's free scouting and a free Help/Advantage setup.


'''Special Note:''' Gootcha excels at stealth, deception, and dealing burst damage to single targets. Use Cunning Action to stay mobile and hidden. Uncanny Dodge keeps you alive.
[[Category:Player Characters]]
[[Category:Player Guides]]

Latest revision as of 21:37, 30 May 2026

Gootcha Zinnoa - Player Guide

Gootcha is a Level 8 Shadar-kai Rogue (Raven's Shadow) with the Scribe background. Gootcha is a member of the Harpers and a sworn servant of the Raven Queen.

This guide reflects Gootcha's current Level 8 rebuild. She is no longer a Half-Elf Rogue/Warlock - she is now a single-class Shadar-kai Rogue with the homebrew Raven's Shadow subclass. Her magic now runs on INTELLIGENCE through the subclass (not Warlock Pact Magic), her former Strength build is gone (STR is now her dump stat), and she has gained the Raven Queen's soul-token mechanics.

Overview

Role in the Party: Stealth Striker, Skill/Knowledge Specialist, Anti-Heal Assassin, Utility Caster

Core Strengths:

  • High burst damage (Sneak Attack 4d6 necrotic + Reaper's Strike anti-healing)
  • Best infiltrator in the party (Stealth +10, Sleight of Hand +10, expertise)
  • Elite knowledge/finder skills (Arcana +9, Investigation +9, Perception +7 - all expertise; Reliable Talent)
  • Surprisingly durable for a rogue (Uncanny Dodge, Evasion, Necrotic Resistance, Blessing of the Raven Queen)
  • INT-based subclass spellcasting from the necromancy/illusion lists
  • Soul Tokens grant rare, game-bending Raven Queen effects
  • A raven familiar for scouting and advantage setups

Core Stats:

  • AC: 18 (Vaartox Studded Leather + DEX + Cloak of Protection)
  • HP: 59 (Max)
  • Speed: 30 ft
  • Initiative: +4
  • Proficiency Bonus: +3

Ability Scores:

  • STR 8 (-1) | DEX 19 (+4) | CON 14 (+2)
  • INT 16 (+3) | WIS 12 (+1) | CHA 10 (+0)

Saving Throws:

  • Strength: +1
  • Dexterity: +9 (Evasion; Advantage on DEX saves)
  • Constitution: +4
  • Intelligence: +8 (proficient)
  • Wisdom: +3
  • Charisma: +2
  • Special: Advantage vs Charm (Fey Ancestry); +1 to all saves (Cloak of Protection, included above); Resistances to Cold, Fire, and Necrotic damage

Spell Save DC: 14 | Spell Attack Bonus: +6 | Spellcasting Ability: Intelligence (+3)

COMBAT - What Can I Do On My Turn?

Weapon Attacks

Weapon Attack Bonus Damage Roll Type Range Mastery / Properties
Shadowfell Crossbow, Light +8 1d8+5 (+4d6 Sneak Attack) Piercing 80/320 ft Slow; Ammunition, Loading, Two-Handed
Assassins Shortbow +7 1d6+4 (+4d6 Sneak Attack) Piercing 80/320 ft Vex (hit = Advantage on next attack vs target); Ammunition, Two-Handed

Note: Gootcha is now a ranged/finesse rogue with DEX 19 and a near-useless Strength (8). Do not melee with heavy weapons - your crossbow and shortbow are your real tools. With Crossbow Expert you ignore Loading and have no disadvantage firing in melee.

Attack/Damage Breakdown (Shadowfell Crossbow): +4 DEX, +3 Proficiency, +1 magic = +8 to hit; 1d8 +4 DEX +1 magic = 1d8+5.

Sneak Attack (YOUR BREAD AND BUTTER)

Sneak Attack Damage: 4d6 (Rogue 8, average 14). Once per turn, with a Finesse or Ranged weapon, when you have Advantage OR an ally is within 5 ft of the target (and you don't have Disadvantage).

  • Reaper's Strike (subclass): When you deal Sneak Attack damage you may make it Necrotic AND/OR make the target unable to regain hit points until the start of your next turn. The anti-healing rider is huge against trolls, clerics, vampires, and any self-healing boss.
  • How to turn it on every turn: Steady Aim (bonus action, Advantage if you didn't move), Cunning Action: Hide, your Vex shortbow, your raven's Help action, Hex of the Fated, or simply standing near a frontline ally.

Cunning Strike (NEW - spend Sneak Attack dice for riders)

When you deal Sneak Attack damage you can trade dice for an effect (remove the die before rolling):

Effect Cost Result
Poison 1d6 DC 15 CON save or Poisoned 1 min (needs Poisoner's Kit - you are proficient)
Trip 1d6 Large or smaller: DC 15 DEX save or Prone
Withdraw 1d6 Move up to half your Speed with no Opportunity Attacks

Tip: Trip is great to set up Advantage for the party; Withdraw keeps you safe after a kill; Poison adds soft control. You sacrifice a little damage for control - usually worth it once a target is already low.

Subclass Magic - Raven's Shadow Spellcasting

Gootcha's spells come from the Raven's Shadow subclass and use Intelligence (DC 14, +6 to hit). Cantrips are from the wizard list; leveled spells are necromancy/illusion. She has 4 first-level and 2 second-level slots. Cantrips (at will):

Cantrip Effect When to Use
Chill Touch 2d10 necrotic (touch range), target can't regain HP Anti-heal poke; pairs with Reaper's Strike theme
Raven's Reach 1d10 necrotic, 120 ft (rolls count of 2) Primary ranged cantrip; works with Queen's Guidance
Mage Hand Telekinetic utility Traps, levers, fetching

Prepared Spells:

Spell Level Cast Time Effect Save When to Use
Hex (Hex of the Fated) 1st 1 Bonus Action +1d6 necrotic per hit; target also has Disadvantage on saves of the chosen ability None (Conc.) Open big fights; pick the ability your control spells will target
Cause Fear 1st 1 Action Frighten a creature WIS 14 Shut down a melee bruiser
Color Spray 1st 1 Action Blind creatures (HP-total effect) - Burst-blind a cluster; blinded = you get Advantage
Ray of Sickness 1st 1 Action 2d8 poison + possible Poisoned CON 14 Ranged damage + debuff
Tasha's Hideous Laughter 1st 1 Action Prone + Incapacitated WIS 14 Hard control on one enemy
Mage Armor 1st 1 Action Base AC 13+DEX (not needed - you wear armor) - Backup if disarmed of armor
Find Familiar 1st (ritual, free) - Summon your raven - Always have it out - scouting + Help for Advantage
Ray of Enfeeblement 2nd 1 Action Halve target's STR-weapon damage CON 14 Neuter a melee boss
Silence 2nd 1 Action No sound in 20 ft sphere None (Conc.) Hard-counter enemy casters; stealth

Hex of the Fated synergy: Cast Hex and name (e.g.) Wisdom - now the target has Disadvantage on WIS saves, so your Cause Fear / Tasha's / Hypnotic Pattern land far more reliably. This is your signature combo.

Raven's Shadow Subclass Features

Feature Effect Notes
Death's Companion Raven familiar (ritual Find Familiar, free); telepathic bond + see through its senses within 100 ft Scout ahead; have it Help an ally/you for Advantage = free Sneak Attack
Reaper's Strike Sneak Attack can become Necrotic and/or stop the target from healing until your next turn Anti-heal is your niche vs regenerating/healing foes
Hex of the Fated Hex always prepared, cast with a rogue slot; adds Disadvantage on saves of the chosen ability Force-multiplies your control spells
Pact of the Raven Queen Soul Reaper: a creature you drop to 0 with Sneak Attack has its soul claimed (only wish/Divine Intervention can revive). Tokens of the Damned: claim Soul Tokens from "cheaters of death" See Soul Tokens below

Soul Tokens (Your Signature Resource)

Soul Tokens are rare trophies taken when you kill a creature that previously escaped death (resurrected beings, liches, vampires, pact-bound creatures, etc. - DM's call). You can hold up to your character level (8). You currently hold 2: Lord Valtheran (a bronze coin) and the Nameless Assassin (a black crossbow bolt). Spend one (usually an Action) for one of:

Effect What It Does
The Raven Queen's Counsel Ask the goddess one question about past/present/any future; answered truthfully and in detail
Stolen Vitality Regain ALL spell slots, OR all Hit Dice, OR full HP, OR remove diseases/curses/exhaustion (you or an ally you touch)
Reaper's Verdict On a Sneak Attack hit: auto-crit with maximized dice + 2x rogue level necrotic; a kill delivers the soul to the Queen
Threshold Walk Plane shift (Material/Shadowfell/Ethereal) for up to 7, or teleport the group to any place you can picture
The Queen's Veto Reaction: a creature within 60 ft that would drop to 0/die is instead healed to half max HP (revives the recently dead too) - at a price

Use them wisely. These are some of the most powerful options any party member has. Counsel = plot solver. Stolen Vitality = a free short/long rest mid-dungeon. Reaper's Verdict = "delete the boss" button. Queen's Veto = a party member's life-insurance. Don't sit on all of them forever, but they don't recharge - they're earned.

Defensive Abilities

Ability Effect Resource When to Use
Uncanny Dodge Halve damage from one attack you can see Reaction, 1/round Big hits
Evasion DEX save for half = take none on success, half on fail Always Fireballs, breath weapons
Blessing of the Raven Queen Teleport 30 ft + resistance to ALL damage until your next turn 3/Long Rest Escape, reposition, tank a hit
Necrotic Resistance Resistance to necrotic damage Always Shadar-kai trait
Cloak of Protection +1 AC and +1 to all saves Attuned Always on
Ring of Warmth Cold resistance; tolerate cold environments Attuned Cold climates / cold damage
Advantage on DEX Saves / vs Charm Racial traits Always Traps, charms

Bonus Actions

Ability Effect Resource
Steady Aim Advantage on next attack this turn (if you haven't moved; Speed becomes 0) Always (don't-move tradeoff)
Cunning Action: Hide / Dash / Disengage Reposition / hide for Advantage / escape Always
Hex Mark target, +1d6 necrotic + save Disadvantage Rogue slot or Patron's Signet charge
Blessing of the Raven Queen Teleport 30 ft + resistance 3/LR
Expeditious Retreat / Shadow Blade Dash each turn / conjure a 2d8 psychic advantage-blade Ring / Patron's Signet charges

Reactions

Reaction Trigger Effect
Uncanny Dodge Hit by a visible attack Halve the damage
Opportunity Attack Enemy leaves reach Melee attack
The Queen's Veto Ally/you would hit 0 HP within 60 ft Spend a Soul Token to heal them to half max

Passive Abilities (Always On)

Ability Effect
Sneak Attack +4d6 (necrotic via Reaper's Strike) once per turn when conditions met
Reliable Talent Treat any d20 of 9 or lower as a 10 on proficient skill/tool checks
Evasion No damage on a successful DEX save for half
Expertise Double proficiency: Stealth, Sleight of Hand, Investigation, Perception, Arcana
Crossbow Expert Ignore Loading; no disadvantage firing in melee; dual-wield damage rider
Darkvision 60 ft
Trance 4-hour rest; gain 2 weapon/tool proficiencies each long rest

SOCIAL SITUATIONS

Important change: Charisma is now 10 (+0) - Gootcha is no longer the party face she was as a Charlatan/Warlock. Her social value now comes from INTELLIGENCE skills, deception via disguises, and information.

Skill Bonuses

Skill Bonus Notes
Sleight of Hand (DEX) +10 Expertise - pickpocket, palm, plant evidence
Stealth (DEX) +10 Expertise - best sneak in the party
Arcana (INT) +9 Expertise (Harper Initiate) - magic lore
Investigation (INT) +9 Expertise - find clues, hidden things
Perception (WIS) +7 Expertise - notice everything
Acrobatics (DEX) +7 Tumble, balance, escape grapples
Nature (INT) +6 Proficient (Scribe)
Insight (WIS) +4 Read people
Deception / Performance (CHA) +3 Proficient despite CHA 0
History / Religion (INT) +3 Knowledge
Persuasion / Intimidation (CHA) +0 Avoid leading with these

Reliable Talent: On any of the skills above you can't roll below a 10 on the die - so your expertise skills (Stealth/Sleight/Arcana/Investigation +9/+10) effectively never fail at routine tasks.

Passive Scores

  • Passive Investigation: 19 (elite - you spot hidden things automatically)
  • Passive Perception: 17
  • Passive Insight: 14

How to Contribute Socially (with CHA 0)

  • Be the spy, not the diplomat. Disguise Self (Harpers Ring) + your Deception proficiency lets you BE someone else rather than out-talk people. Infiltration is your lane.
  • Be the lore engine. Arcana +9, Investigation +9, History/Religion +3, plus The Raven Queen's Counsel (Soul Token) make you the party's answer to "what is this and how do we beat it?"
  • Whispers / Trance proficiencies: Your Shadar-kai Trance grants two weapon/tool proficiencies each rest - pick what the situation needs.
  • Thieves' Cant for covert messages.

Social Features

  • Disguise Self (Harpers Signet Ring): become someone else for 1 hour
  • The Raven Queen's Counsel (Soul Token): truthful answers to any one question
  • Scribe Background: calligraphy, forgery-adjacent document work
  • Harpers Member: covert network access
  • Raven Familiar: eavesdrop and scout via telepathic bond

Languages

  • Common, Draconic, Sylvan, Thieves' Cant

EXPLORATION

Movement & Senses

  • Walking Speed: 30 ft (40 with Expeditious Retreat / Cunning Action Dash up to 60)
  • Darkvision: 60 ft
  • Teleports: Blessing of the Raven Queen 30 ft (3/LR); Queen's Guidance 30 ft to a target (1/LR); Threshold Walk (Soul Token)
  • Raven familiar: scout up to 100 ft via shared senses

Useful Exploration Abilities

  • Stealth +10 / Sleight of Hand +10 (expertise + Reliable Talent)
  • Investigation +9 / Perception +7 (expertise) - find traps, doors, clues
  • Disguise Self / Gaseous Form (Harpers Ring) - infiltrate, slip through gaps
  • Find Familiar (ritual, free) - send the raven ahead
  • Thieves' Tools, Poisoner's Kit, Calligrapher's Supplies (proficient)

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Resource Total Recharge Notes
Sneak Attack 4d6, 1/turn Always Use every turn
Cunning Action / Steady Aim Unlimited Always Hide/Dash/Disengage or Advantage
Uncanny Dodge 1/round Always Halve a big hit
Spell Slots (1st) 4 Long Rest Hex, control, Ray of Sickness
Spell Slots (2nd) 2 Long Rest Silence, Ray of Enfeeblement, upcasts
Blessing of the Raven Queen 3 Long Rest Teleport + resistance
Queen's Guidance 1 Long Rest Teleport 30 ft to a target + Advantage on the attack action
The Patron's Signet 5 charges (item) Hex / Shadow Blade / Hypnotic Pattern
Harpers Signet Ring 3 charges Dawn Disguise Self / Expeditious Retreat / Gaseous Form
Soul Tokens 2 held (max 8) Earned only Counsel / Stolen Vitality / Reaper's Verdict / Threshold Walk / Queen's Veto

COMMON TACTICS

Opening Combat (Turn 1)

Standard burst opening:

  1. Bonus Action: Steady Aim (Advantage, if you can hold position) or Cunning Action: Hide.
  2. Action: Shoot the Shadowfell Crossbow (+8). With Advantage you land Sneak Attack.
  3. Reaper's Strike: Make it necrotic + no healing on the target.

Control-first opening (vs a tough target):

  1. Bonus Action: Hex of the Fated, naming the save your follow-up will target (e.g. WIS).
  2. Next turns: Tasha's/Cause Fear/Hypnotic Pattern land with the target at Disadvantage, and every hit adds +1d6.

During Combat - Striker Role

  • Get Advantage (Steady Aim, Hide, Vex shortbow, raven Help, Queen's Guidance) and land your one Sneak Attack per turn - it's ~14 damage on top of the weapon.
  • Use Reaper's Strike's anti-heal on any boss that regenerates or has a healer.
  • Spend a die on Cunning Strike: Trip to knock a key enemy prone (party gets Advantage) or Withdraw to retreat safely after the shot.
  • Queen's Guidance (1/LR): teleport up to 30 ft to a target and get Advantage on the whole attack action - a guaranteed Sneak Attack from nowhere.

Anti-Caster / Anti-Healer Playbook

  • Silence on an enemy spellcaster denies all Verbal-component spells (no save).
  • Reaper's Strike / Chill Touch stop healing - shut down clerics, trolls, vampires.
  • Hex of the Fated + Cause Fear/Tasha's locks down a single dangerous caster.

Boss Fight Tactics

  1. Hex of the Fated turn 1; keep concentration.
  2. Steady Aim each turn for reliable Sneak Attacks; apply Reaper's Strike anti-heal.
  3. Save Uncanny Dodge for the boss's biggest hit; Evasion covers AoE.
  4. Blessing of the Raven Queen to teleport out of danger with resistance.
  5. When the boss is low, consider Reaper's Verdict (Soul Token) for a maximized auto-crit to end it - especially apt against creatures that have cheated death.

Multi-Enemy Tactics

  • Color Spray / Hypnotic Pattern (Patron's Signet) to blind/incapacitate a cluster.
  • Blinded enemies grant you Advantage = Sneak Attack online.
  • Cunning Strike: Trip to drop a runner; Withdraw to peel away.

Special Situations

  • Surrounded: Cunning Action Disengage, Blessing of the Raven Queen, or Gaseous Form (ring).
  • Can't get Sneak Attack: Steady Aim, send the raven to Help, or use a Vex hit to set up next turn.
  • Ally dying: The Queen's Veto (Soul Token) heals them to half max as a reaction; or Stolen Vitality to top the party off.
  • Out of slots mid-dungeon: Stolen Vitality (Soul Token) restores all of them.

QUICK REFERENCE

Combat Priority Checklist

  1. Can I get Advantage (Steady Aim / Hide / raven Help / Vex)? Set up Sneak Attack.
  2. Should I Hex of the Fated first (control coming up)?
  3. Shoot with the crossbow/shortbow; apply Reaper's Strike (necrotic + no-heal).
  4. Spend a Sneak die on Trip/Withdraw/Poison if useful.
  5. Reaction: Uncanny Dodge a big hit; Queen's Veto to save a dying ally.

Key Numbers

  • Shadowfell Crossbow: +8, 1d8+5; Assassins Shortbow: +7, 1d6+4 (Vex)
  • Sneak Attack: 4d6 necrotic (~14), once per turn
  • Spell Save DC 14 | Spell Attack +6 | INT spellcasting (+3)
  • AC 18 | HP 59 | Speed 30 ft | Darkvision 60 ft
  • Passive Investigation 19 | Stealth/Sleight +10

Remember These Critical Things

  1. You are a single-class Rogue now - no Warlock slots, no Pact of the Blade; magic is INT-based subclass casting.
  2. Sneak Attack is 4d6 and once per turn - always set up Advantage.
  3. Reaper's Strike stops healing - your anti-heal niche.
  4. Hex of the Fated + a control spell is your signature combo (save Disadvantage).
  5. Soul Tokens are precious - Counsel, Stolen Vitality, Reaper's Verdict, Queen's Veto.
  6. Steady Aim costs your movement - line up the shot first.
  7. STR is 8 - never melee with brute weapons; stay ranged and finesse.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Playing her like the old Warlock build (Pact weapon, Hellish Rebuke, CHA face) - that character is gone.
  2. Forgetting Sneak Attack or attacking twice for less total damage.
  3. Moving and then trying to use Steady Aim (it requires you stay put).
  4. Hoarding every Soul Token forever - use Stolen Vitality / Veto when the party needs it.
  5. Meleeing with STR 8.
  6. Forgetting the raven - it's free scouting and a free Help/Advantage setup.
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