Close Wounds vs Coup de Grace?

[frankthedm]

Would you then rule that the subject therefore did not take lethal damage and need not save?

The rules say the save is still required. The DC would only be 10.

You automatically hit and score a critical hit. If the defender survives the damage, he must make a Fortitude save (DC 10 + damage dealt) or die.

How i would rule is a moot point because I would never allow this particular spell in the first place. If a cleric needs to save someone from being killed when not his turn, that is what the 'ready action is for.

 

[pawsplay]

The rules say the save is still required.

Yes, I think you are correct under that interpretation.

You automatically hit and score a critical hit. If the defender survives the damage, he must make a Fortitude save (DC 10 + damage dealt) or die. A rogue also gets her extra sneak attack damage against a helpless opponent when delivering a coup de grace.

 

[javcs]

Effectively preventing damage is not the same as preventing damage.
Therefore, I would say that the DC is 10+damage dealt, as the save occurs at the same time as the damage, giving no time to cast close wounds, if the save was made, the you get to close wounds, otherwise, no, close wounds has no effect, other spells, however, might be useful.