FormerlyHemlock
Hero
If that's the case in their world, then I'd like to understand where fairness ends and cheating begins. I think if someone feels as strongly about it as this thread length implies that that should not be a difficult task.
So, I ask again: Is it fair to set an NPC's hp to maximum hp? Is it fair to do that *after* initiative? Is that *really* that different? Is it fair to set an NPC's hp to higher than maximum hp? Is it fair to do that *before* initiative? So, is it fair to set *all* NPCs to maximum hp?
Okay, I'll bite. No, no, no, no, no, and no, as far as my game is concerned or games I would be interested in playing. If you want a tougher NPC, do it at the design stage by giving him more levels/higher CR, and then follow the consequences.
There are people who would answer differently but I take responsibility only for the answers I personally have given, above.