Strategist Expansion for the Marshal Archetype (Pathfinder Second Edition Options)
(art by LeAndraDawn on DeviantArt)
Todayβs a bit unusual in that weβre only taking a look at part of an archetype today, specifically the feats added to the Marshal archetype from Tian Xia Character Guide, colloquially known as the Strategist feats.
I probably wonβt make a habit of this, but I thought they were neat enough in what they added to the archetype that I thought it was worth including.
So anyway, the strategist feats take the marshal, which is heavily focused on commanding and inspiring allies, and adds a tactical edge to it, reflecting the mastery of the art of war.
Not that the base marshal isnβt already a strategist in itβs own right, but letβs have a look at what it has to offer!
These options start with a special stance feat for the marshall, as they open their minds and try to enter a mental state where they can absorb and process the information of the surrounding battle quickly. If successful, they can recall knowledge and analyze a foe, potentially picking up on gaps in their defenses that they or their allies can exploit.
Many strategists are willing to accept information from qualified sources, allowing them to ask nearby allies to help them read and identify foes.
Like a true military commander, many know all about the advantages of formations, and can expect allies to jump to when the command comes to form ranks.
Imposing and threatening, marshals that are also Five-Breath Vanguards can choose to step forward, away from the protection of allies as bait or an imposing threat, drawing attention away from their allies.
The Marshal archetype is already about supporting and guiding allies in an organized and military way, but this addition provides a fun new stance and some options for moving and protecting allies as need be, good for both front-line and back-line marshals.
Marshals can be of any sort of background as long as theyβve got leadership skills, but these feats do imply an actual background in the military, so that should probably shape how your character acts.
I think since this is a minor expansion to an existing archetype, I donβt think thereβs any need for me to post adventure hooks, since those in my original Marshal entry are just as applicable here. Look forward to another entry tomorrow though!
