throwing an object into the path of a spell's ray effect

[Andion Isurand]

I'm thinking about how to make a feat that would allow a character to throw an object into the path of a spell's ray effect to effectively block the ray, preventing the ray from hitting someone else...

...seeing as how anyone capable of doing this would probably be able to dodge the ray normally.

What do you guys think?

Any suggestions?

 

[Crothian]

That would be tough as there is really no rules for reacting to another player's action. The exception is if you ready an attack like a counterspell. So, I'd say the feat should require a readied action.

 

[Andion Isurand]

Ok, this is my outline so far....

I was thinking of something a little like this......

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Can I react? Readied Partial Action

Is it a ray effect spell? Minor Spellcraft Check ( DC 5 + spell's level )

Do I react in time? Reflex Save (DC 20 + spell's level)

Is my aim true? Opposed Attack Roll
( don't forget about any range increments )

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However, the whole thing seems a bit cumbersome.

 

[Saepiroth]

Deflect Rays (General)
Prerequisites: Deflect Arrows OR Armed Deflect Arrows, BAB 6+
Benefit: when a ray spell's Line of Effect (as measured in a straight line from caster to target) passes within five feet of you, you may attempt to intercept it. make a reflex save against DC 20 + the level of the spell, or the natural save of the spell; whichever is higher. if you succeed, the spell fails to effect it's declared target. You must then make a Fortitude save against the same DC as the reflex save or the spell instead effects you as it would on a successful attack. add any magical +x bonus of your weapon to this save.
Special: you can only use this ability against spells that require an attack roll, and it counts against your limit of Deflect attempts in a round (normally one). this spell will allow you to deflect normally undeflectable effects, such as a Melf's Acid Arrow or a Flame Arrow, as long as the effect satisfies the constraints of this feat.

 

[SylverFlame]

Nice feat Saepiroth. I like that it's not all reflex otherwise it would be a definite choice for a combat or mid-rank rogue. Kudos on the design.

 

[Saepiroth]

A'thank you!

 

[Kahuna Burger]

Deflect Rays (General)
Prerequisites: Deflect Arrows OR Armed Deflect Arrows, BAB 6+
Benefit: when a ray spell's Line of Effect (as measured in a straight line from caster to target) passes within five feet of you, you may attempt to intercept it. make a reflex save against DC 20 + the level of the spell, or the natural save of the spell; whichever is higher. if you succeed, the spell fails to effect it's declared target. You must then make a Fortitude save against the same DC as the reflex save or the spell instead effects you. add any magical +x bonus of your weapon to this save.

heh, some odd part of me wants to throw in a will save too, modified by your relationship to the person you're blocking for and your chances of making the fort save. must be the hour...

kahuna burger

 

[Maximillian]

Epic Level Handbook has a personal ray deflection spell for high level monks, but I think that feat is an interesting mechanic, if a little cumbersome.

You know, if the object is big enough, you could always just throw it into the line of the ray and apply a cover bonus to their save or AC. Again, you'd have to ready, but that wouldn't need a feat. Also, if you're a tower shield man, you can ready to move between the caster and the target, using the 100% side of your shield to block line of effect.

And hey... this is a little OT, but, does anyone else allow PCs to ready movement?

DM: The Orc Charges you.
Player: I take my readied action and move thirty feet to my left. I'm around the corner. He can't charge me now.
DM: .