Spellcraft Puzzle

[irdeggman]

Here is the problem I have with trying to use masterwork tools generically,

A masterwork item is an item that by its great craftwork provides a "better" bonus than an item that is not masterwork. It is something that has a use for the given task that is made better by its fine craftmansship.

So, what use do these gems provide for the task at hand? What I mean is, what would a set of non-masterwork gems provide for the task at hand?

Can non exceptional quality gems be used for a spellcraft check?

IMO if a non-exceptional quality item has no intrensic value to a task then an item of masterwork quality can't make the task any better.

Masterwork instruments can still be used to perform (it is impossible to make a lyre performance without a lyre).

Craft tools work the same way.

The list continues on.

I think it is a real stretch to apply the generic masterwork tool to perform a task that doesn't gain a benefit (even if only to negate a penalty) by using a non-exceptional quality tool.

 

[Plot-Device]

I'd give him the bonus if he had the "Limited Edition Compedium on The Construction, Destruction, Existence, Myths, Reality and Color of the Weave" A book by Wee Zard. As opposed to a regular book on magic formula, the similarities of the arcane gestures of the same schoo, etc.

 

[Falling Icicle]

I agree with Irdeggman. How can a masterowk tool aid a skill that doesn't use a tool in the first place?