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Message: <blockquote data-quote="AbdulAlhazred" data-source="post: 4674169" data-attributes="member: 82106">Well, it would probably help to have some definitions. As I see it there are several categories of NPCs that could be 'attached to' a character in some fashion. Not all of them have to use the same mechanic.A 'hireling' would be some sort of NPC which is employed by the PC in some capacity. Generally that would be a specific purpose and they would not be a character class. More likely they would be a specialist of some kind, a scribe, armourer, etc. They're not usually likely to be part of an encounter except incidentally. Thus they really don't need any sort of mechanic, they're just NPCs. The butler in your mansion is such a character. If there is a question about their loyalty, then a Charisma check can be made to determine if the butler takes a bribe to allow thieves into the mansion while you're gone. The RS system or something similar can supply modifiers.The next type would be a 'henchman'. This would be your NPC that is hired by the PC as an adjunct to the party. They are unlikely to be near the level of the PCs (or why wouldn't they just adventure on their own). They are doubly unlikely to be above heroic tier regardless of the levels of the PCs. Essentially they would like a hireling, but their function is to fight for you, and again RS can work as outlined as a morale system for them.A 'follower' would be a whole different category of thing. This would be your squire or companion of some sort. This guy is dedicated to your cause and is an adjunct to your character. I think they still need to have independent actions, but they could be acquired via a paragon path for instance. They would always be N levels lower than the PC and might provide certain minor static bonuses like maintaining your armor (reduces ACP by one or movement penalty by 1 or somesuch). They might also use the RS system, but they are generally loyal and probably wouldn't run away for instance in a fight unless the battle is lost. Actually as far as general leadership goes it can just use the Diplomacy and Insight skills, which can already be boosted by feats. There could be a leadership skill specifically, but it isn't necessary and adding skills is probably too much additional game mechanics.</blockquote>

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