I'm trying to build a character who primarily waits to attack and turns an opponent's attacks against him. Probably a monk, but not necessarily (if you've got a better idea, let me know), he'll primarily rely on various attacks of opportunity. The best analogy I can make is to aikido, where, instead of attacking, a student waits for the opponent's attack and then redirects the attacker's momentum, using it against him.
Obviously, lots of Tumble ranks and liberal use of the Total Defense action will be involved, as will the feats Dodge and Combat Reflexes.
I've also found the Complete Warrior feat Defensive Throw. That's definitely a start, although pretty underpowered for what I want to do. It would be a lot more useful if the first sentence started, "If you dodge an opponent's attack..." instead of "If the opponent you have chosen to use your Dodge feat against attacks you and misses..." (but alas, it doesn't... but maybe I can get my DM to allow the change). That would make a lot more sense of the Combat Reflexes prerequisite, since as it stands it's only applicable against one opponent per round (if that many). Although I suppose if my trip were successful, I could follow up with a regular attack.
There's also the old Oriental Adventures feat Defensive Strike, but there are a couple problems with that, too: [1] it's 3.0 and I'm playing 3.5 (anyone know of an updated version?) and [2] it doesn't allow an attack of opportunity, but rather requires me to attack on my next turn.
I've also thought of BoED's Vows of Nonviolence and Peace, but I'm not particularly interested in avoiding lethal damage, and I'm not planning a good character anyhow. Most likely, lawful neutral, trending toward good, but not good enough to be "exalted".
So, the question is, can you think of any other feats or uses of skills to help me out here? Even classes or prestige classes? I don't want him to rely too much on items, but those suggestions will be appreciated as well. Just so you know, I've got access to the core rulebooks and the "Complete" series (and BoED, but... well, see above). For suggestions outside of those sources, I'd really appreciate links or posts including text. Thanks! Tall order here, I know.
Obviously, lots of Tumble ranks and liberal use of the Total Defense action will be involved, as will the feats Dodge and Combat Reflexes.
I've also found the Complete Warrior feat Defensive Throw. That's definitely a start, although pretty underpowered for what I want to do. It would be a lot more useful if the first sentence started, "If you dodge an opponent's attack..." instead of "If the opponent you have chosen to use your Dodge feat against attacks you and misses..." (but alas, it doesn't... but maybe I can get my DM to allow the change). That would make a lot more sense of the Combat Reflexes prerequisite, since as it stands it's only applicable against one opponent per round (if that many). Although I suppose if my trip were successful, I could follow up with a regular attack.
There's also the old Oriental Adventures feat Defensive Strike, but there are a couple problems with that, too: [1] it's 3.0 and I'm playing 3.5 (anyone know of an updated version?) and [2] it doesn't allow an attack of opportunity, but rather requires me to attack on my next turn.
I've also thought of BoED's Vows of Nonviolence and Peace, but I'm not particularly interested in avoiding lethal damage, and I'm not planning a good character anyhow. Most likely, lawful neutral, trending toward good, but not good enough to be "exalted".
So, the question is, can you think of any other feats or uses of skills to help me out here? Even classes or prestige classes? I don't want him to rely too much on items, but those suggestions will be appreciated as well. Just so you know, I've got access to the core rulebooks and the "Complete" series (and BoED, but... well, see above). For suggestions outside of those sources, I'd really appreciate links or posts including text. Thanks! Tall order here, I know.
