Questions on fighting in the dark

[Lamoni]

Question 1: Is there any easy way for a non-caster or a bard or cleric to extinguish torches? The situation is that several intelligent creatures with darkvision in a dungeon or cave would most likely use this tactic if it was available. I don't want a darkness spell (which gives light)... I just want something to counter whatever light they produce. Is there an easy way to take out magical sticks that glow like a torch?

Question 2: Assuming the party is then left in the dark with no torch, are they treated the equivalent of blind meaning they lose their dex bonus to AC and can be sneak attacked?

Question 3: What if they have scent? Scent allows you to pinpoint someone within 5 ft. If they know where you are through scent can you still sneak attack them and do they still lose their dex bonus to their AC?

Question 4: Can you still get flanking bonuses if two people attack someone who is blinded? Or in other words can two invisible people provide flanking bonuses to each other?

 

[Infiniti2000]

Too Many Questions for One Thread

1. What do you mean by a darkness spell gives light, or do you not want to digress into that discussion? Other than that, a bard or cleric could use Use Magic Device to activate a scroll of Gust of Wind or Quench. To take out sticks with magic effects cast on them, an area effect dispel magic would work. To take out multiple magic item light sticks -- no way to do it sans disjunction or higher darkness spell.

2. If the ambient light is otherwise zero, then yes they are blind (without darkvision or blindsight). Look up the "blind" condition and the benefits of being invisible and total concealment. All apply.

3. Scent only allows you to pinpoint the square of someone. It provides no other benefit vs darkness.

4. This is worthy of its own thread. My answer: yes.

 

[Hypersmurf]

1. What do you mean by a darkness spell gives light?

The Darkness spell radiates shadowy illumination.

Candles radiate shadowy illumination.

-Hyp.

 

[Infiniti2000]

Candles radiate shadowy illumination.

No they don't. "A candle dimly illuminates a 5-foot radius and burns for 1 hour."

I understand why people want to believe that darkness creates light, but it's not a good idea and is, quite honestly, a whole separate thread. It's also not something I care to argue because (1) it's a stupid argument, and (2) I have no desire to try to explain 'darkness'.