But, I never, ever said, diplomatic FIGHTER. I said diplomatic guy who fights well. Guy who fights well in 3e=fighter, barbarian, ranger or paladin.
Or, how many supplements did I have to wait for Swashbuckler. Never, ever bought character splats, so I wouldn't know.
You wanted Sneaky Shooty guy. In 4e, that's ranger with the right choices.
Well, that's a trick question. If I'm limited to JUST the 3.5 PHB, you've set up an un-winnable fight. There is ONE class that has diplomacy as a class skill and good BAB, and that's paladin (which you poo-poo'd because of the LG holy-warrior element). So no, there is no combination in the core books that meets your EXACT criteria...
Oh course, its PERFECTLY fine for 4e to fail to meet those same types of criteria. "Oh, you want to be a rogue who can use a shortbow? Be a ranger!" ISN'T a good enough answer for me. First off, rangers come with ranger-baggage (class skill nature/dungeoneering, no bluff or thievery as class skills) power-names descriptions/based off natural elements, or "My 'thief' using Dire Wolverine Strike!") Secondly, I may WANT the rogue elements (artful dodger, sneak attack, rogue paragon paths or rogue powers like tumble) but instead of being FORCED to use a hand-crossbow, I want a freaking shortbow. One choice of weapon for 1/2 of my rogue powers (those that can be used at range) forcing me to be a WHOLE DIFFERENT CLASS isn't good game design. IMHO it stinks.
So in the "spirit" of 4e's balancing of game mechanics and "fluff" I give you Suavey Mc Figthtswell, 3.5 core.
Half-elf Paladin, LG
His highest score is in charisma, with strength and con being not far behind.
He's a knight of the realm, loyal to the crown. His job to to ferret out traitors, spies, and evil forces at work.
He's maxed out ranks in Know: Nobility (to know whose supposed to be in court and whose not) sense motive (to determine liars and frauds) and diplomacy (to be suave and cool). His synergies and racial mods give him a +6 to diplomacy over his ranks+cha.
He's so good determining social motives and insidious plots that he can sense evil almost supernaturally.
When he faces a foe of the crown, he is a ruthless and brutal combatant, giving him power to smite those who stand against god and country!
He's abnormally lucky, and his tremendous sense of self-worth gives him ability to withstand attacks on his mind and body.
He also never gives up, granting his body a way to overcome nearly mortal blows (if 4e can use the rationale to heal hp, so can I)
He's hearty as a horse and never suffers from diseases. Good genes, I guess.
Hes brave, fearless even. His presence removes doubt in those who share his worldview.
He's a field-medic, and can treat diseases and heal wounds to allies. He has no formal medical training, just a McGuyver sense of what needs fixing.
He has a loyal mount that always appears when its needed most...
He learned a little spellcasting in the academy, depending on his wisdom or not. (You could ignore this or trade it out for bonus feats, DM willing)
Lastly, his presence is so intimidating that the undead run from the sight of him, if they know whats best for them!
BEHOLD: James Bond: Paladin.
Ain't no worse than calling a ranger a rogue, right?
