[PnP] Enhancements

[Thomas O. Magann Jr.]

Howdy,

I'm new but I've been following the enhancement debate. I don't think it's much of a problem, properly handled.

First off, enhancements aren't enchantments. The spellcaster isn't adding magic where none exists, he's catalyzing what's already there ("natural magic items" implies the existance of magic already), so the level of skill of the mage wouldn't matter , just the magic already present. After all, 10 times the catalyst doesn't mean 10 times the strength, it means 10 times as much changed at once, which is how the spell is already written: a better mage affects more, but the effect is entirely dependant on the material, and it's innate qualities. Adding magic is the realm of enchantment, which is different, and IS dependant on what the mage can bring to the party

V2 places even more limits with the rites I made the mistake of mentioning to Scott. The rites have to be learned. Figuring even a one day lesson from a teacher (or book containing all the information) it's a 2 point equivalent lesson. A single knowledge spell would only teach a single rite (although something like rowan or black cat might use the same rite for all 2 or 3 possible enhanceable parts). You're average human wizard, Int 13, multiplier of 4 would top out out at a Knowledge EL of 6 until he hit Mel9. that's a good 2 years of solid determined work to learn all the rites.

IF you even know about all the possible natural magic items in the first place. Herbalism and miner would help recognize quite a few, Forester for woods, and other terrain mastery types (badlander, mountainer, hillman, boatman, swamp dweller, etc) for assorted animals, and... well, nothing comes to mind for creatures, although Scholarship would probably do it, it specialized properly.

And all those skills only give a *chance* of knowing about the appropriate item in the first place (although I think an herbalist/healer should probably know most of the healing NMI herbs to start, probably). 

Frankly, I find all that more than enough of  a limitation. But then, I'm applying to play, not GM Scott's game. :-)

Thank you for your time,

Thomas O. Magann Jr.