Revisiting the Dwarven Defender

**unbongwah** · 11-08-2013, 10:46 AM

As I mentioned in another thread, I've been leveling a pure dwarven fighter as a classic Dwarven Defender: i.e., dwarven axe + shield, heavy armor, lots of HPs, the whole shebang. Figures I would try to play a S&B tank right after Turbine turned monk "tanks" back into the "I WIN!" button again.

The goal is not so much "Can I make a S&B tank as good as a pajama build?" (SPOILER: no, I can't); but rather "What's the best 'classic' S&B fighter build I can come up with?" This thread will contain the build I've been using, plus maybe a couple of possible variants, and hopefully the pros & cons of multiclassing instead.

Basically, I'm trying to play the class the way I think Turbine intends for it to be played; before going into why that's a bad idea in the current game.

I wanted to take advantage of dwarf racial bonuses: in particular Dwarf Fortress (+dmg while S&B), tactics DCs, and saves vs spells. The idea was to have a mix of DPS, tactics, survivability, and threat amp.

So, onto the build!

Code:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 04.19.03
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 28 True Neutral Dwarf Female
(20 Fighter \ 8 Epic) 
Hit Points: 569
Spell Points: 0 
BAB: 20\20\25\30\30
Fortitude: 21
Reflex: 7
Will: 6

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 28)
Strength             18                    29
Dexterity            11                    13
Constitution         18                    24
Intelligence         11                    13
Wisdom                8                    10
Charisma              6                     8

Tomes Used
+2 Tome of Strength used at level 7
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Constitution used at level 7
+2 Tome of Intelligence used at level 7
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 7
+2 Tome of Charisma used at level 7
+3 Tome of Constitution used at level 23

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 28)
Balance               0                    19
Bluff                -2                     7
Concentration         4                    15
Diplomacy            -2                     7
Disable Device        n/a                   n/a
Haggle               -2                    10
Heal                 -1                     8
Hide                  0                     9
Intimidate            2                    33
Jump                  4                    17
Listen               -1                     8
Move Silently         0                     9
Open Lock             n/a                   n/a
Perform              n/a                    n/a
Repair                0                     9
Search                0                    11
Spellcraft            0                     9
Spot                 -1                     8
Swim                  4                    17
Tumble                n/a                  10
Use Magic Device      0                    18

Level 1 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Cleave
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 2 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Two Handed Fighting


Level 3 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Shield Mastery


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Great Cleave


Level 5 (Fighter)


Level 6 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Bash
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Two Handed Fighting


Level 7 (Fighter)


Level 8 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 9 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Mastery


Level 10 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Stunning Blow


Level 11 (Fighter)


Level 12 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Combat Expertise
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Trip


Level 13 (Fighter)


Level 14 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Greater Two Handed Fighting


Level 15 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 16 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Sunder


Level 17 (Fighter)


Level 18 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Dodge
Feat: (Selected) Mobility


Level 19 (Fighter)


Level 20 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Shield Deflection
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Constitution (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Tactics (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Tactics (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Tactics (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Focus: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Spiritual Bond (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Strike With No Thought (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Power Surge (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Tactics (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Tactics (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Tactics (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Overbalance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stalwart Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stand Fast (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Defensive Sweep (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Last Stand (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Defense Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Defense Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Defense Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Swift Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 3)


Level 21 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Overwhelming Critical


Level 22 (Epic)


Level 23 (Epic)


Level 24 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Epic Toughness


Level 25 (Epic)


Level 26 (Epic)
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Tactician


Level 27 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Blinding Speed


Level 28 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Elusive Target

The 28-pt F2P-friendly version would start STR 16 DEX 12 CON 18 INT 12; use +1 INT tome for CE+Imp Trip, +1 DEX for Dodge+Mobility, and either +2 or +3 CON tome for epic Toughness (put lvl 24 stat pt into CON w/+2 tome).

Feats: for me, the must-have feats on this build were Power Atk/Cleave/GC; IC:Slash & Overwhelming Crit; the THF chain; Shield Mastery, ISM, Imp Shield Bash (stacks w/Shield Striking, AFAIK); and Toughness+eToughness. That 13 feats out of 21 (7 heroic + 11 ftr + 3 epic), leaving eight to spare. I like having tactics feats, so I spent four on Stunning Blow, CE+Imp Trip, and Imp Sunder. The rest I spread around: Dodge+Mobility for +5% Dodge +2 MDB; Blinding Speed for perma-Haste; and Shield Deflection for good measure. EDIT: ED feats are Tactician (+2 DCs) and Elusive Target; if I decide to be more DPS-focused, I'll do GTHF & GTWF (+5% doublestrike).

Enhancements: I spent 41 APs into SD tree for full core enhs, max stance bonuses, Shield Striking, Block & Cut, threat amp, and +2 STR; Defense Boost is filler (needed to spend 3 APs to get capstone). I spent 21 APs in Kensei for max Haste Boost, extra Action Boost, +3 tactics, core enhs thru Power Surge (+8 STR), and +2 hit/dmg w/axes. The remaining 18 APs went into dwarf tree for +1 CON, the first axe enh, +3 DCs, +2 saves, and Dwarf Fortress (+pre-reqs) for +5% dmg while S&B; if I dropped the tactics & saves bonuses, I can goose that up to +7%.

Tactics DCs: the build gets +2 from SD capstone, +3 dwarven enhs, +3 Kensei enhs, +4 from Power Surge (+8 STR), +6 Legendary Tactics, +2 Tactician feat. Between that, high STR (inc. +6 from defensive stance), and the DC-boosting gear I plan to acquire, I certainly hope that's enough to keep my DCs relevant into epics.

Epic Destiny: for DPS, the primary ED will be Legendary Dreadnought - Master Blitz, Headman's Chop, Devastating Critical, and Anvil of Thunder are all good. For Twists, I'd want Legendary Shield Mastery ASAP; not sure what to do for the rest.

Drawbacks: the biggest ones are the same as pure fighters have always had, namely zero self-sufficiency and low Reflex & Will saves. Defensive stance provides +3 to saves and dwarven spell defense adds another +4 as configured; but I'll still be relying on gear and friendly healers to keep me alive.

**unbongwah** · 11-08-2013, 10:46 AM

For comparison, here's a build which mostly ditches the tactics side of things (tho it keeps CE+Imp Trip) as well as Mobility & IC:Blunt to focus more on DPS/doublestrike:

Code:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 04.19.03
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 28 True Neutral Dwarf Female
(20 Fighter \ 8 Epic) 
Hit Points: 566
Spell Points: 0 
BAB: 20\20\25\30\30
Fortitude: 17
Reflex: 7
Will: 6

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 28)
Strength             18                    31
Dexterity            11                    13
Constitution         18                    21
Intelligence         11                    13
Wisdom                8                    10
Charisma              6                     8

Tomes Used
+2 Tome of Strength used at level 7
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Constitution used at level 7
+2 Tome of Intelligence used at level 7
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 7
+2 Tome of Charisma used at level 7
+3 Tome of Constitution used at level 23

Level 1 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Cleave
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 2 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Two Handed Fighting


Level 3 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Shield Mastery


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Great Cleave


Level 5 (Fighter)


Level 6 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Bash
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Two Handed Fighting


Level 7 (Fighter)


Level 8 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 9 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Mastery


Level 10 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Weapon Focus: Slashing Weapons


Level 11 (Fighter)


Level 12 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Combat Expertise
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Trip


Level 13 (Fighter)


Level 14 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Greater Two Handed Fighting


Level 15 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 16 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Weapon Specialization: Slashing Weapons


Level 17 (Fighter)


Level 18 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Greater Weapon Focus: Slashing Weapons


Level 19 (Fighter)


Level 20 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Greater Weapon Specialization: Slashing Weapons
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Focus: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Spiritual Bond (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Strike With No Thought (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Power Surge (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - One Cut (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Alacrity (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Reed in the Wind (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Reed in the Wind (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Critical Accuracy (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Critical Accuracy (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Critical Accuracy (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Critical Damage (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Critical Damage (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Critical Damage (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Overbalance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stalwart Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stand Fast (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Swift Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 3)


Level 21 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Overwhelming Critical


Level 22 (Epic)


Level 23 (Epic)


Level 24 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Epic Toughness


Level 25 (Epic)


Level 26 (Epic)
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Perfect Two Handed Fighting


Level 27 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Blinding Speed


Level 28 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Perfect Two Weapon Fighting

Going for the Kensei capstone adds +15% doublestrike which stacks w/Block&Cut's doublestrike bonus; the Weap Foc/Spec feats & enhs boost base axe dmg; PTWF is another +5% doublestrike while PTHF is +10% glancing blows.

The drawback to this approach (apart from lower DCs & the loss of two tactics feats) is there's barely any APs left for the dwarf tree; ideally I'd want to max out Dwarf Fortress as well for +7% dmg. If anyone can tell me how to add another 15 APs to my char, I'll get right on that...

Multiclassing: the obvious splash to take is pally 2; it costs you a feat and the SD capstone (which is not so great, TBH), but you gain a potentially huge bonus to saves. In epic levels, if you Twist in Bane of Undeath to grant Turn Undead, you can add Divine Might; but that costs 11 APs to max out in KotC tree. If you want to do that, I'd start STR 16 CHA 12 and change alignment to Lawful Good.

So maybe something like this:

Code:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 04.19.03
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 28 Lawful Good Dwarf Female
(18 Fighter \ 2 Paladin \ 8 Epic) 
Hit Points: 566
Spell Points: 0 
BAB: 20\20\25\30\30
Fortitude: 26
Reflex: 10
Will: 11

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 28)
Strength             16                    27
Dexterity            11                    13
Constitution         18                    22
Intelligence         11                    13
Wisdom                8                    10
Charisma             12                    14

Tomes Used
+2 Tome of Strength used at level 7
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Constitution used at level 7
+2 Tome of Intelligence used at level 7
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 7
+2 Tome of Charisma used at level 7
+3 Tome of Constitution used at level 23

Level 1 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Cleave
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 2 (Paladin)


Level 3 (Paladin)
Feat: (Selected) Shield Mastery


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Great Cleave


Level 5 (Fighter)


Level 6 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Bash
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Two Handed Fighting


Level 7 (Fighter)


Level 8 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 9 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Mastery


Level 10 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Two Handed Fighting


Level 11 (Fighter)


Level 12 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Combat Expertise
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Trip


Level 13 (Fighter)


Level 14 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Greater Two Handed Fighting


Level 15 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 16 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Stunning Blow


Level 17 (Fighter)


Level 18 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Force of Personality
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Sunder


Level 19 (Fighter)


Level 20 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Dodge
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Constitution (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Tactics (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Tactics (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Tactics (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Focus: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Spiritual Bond (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Strike With No Thought (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Power Surge (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Tactics (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Tactics (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Tactics (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Overbalance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stalwart Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stand Fast (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strong Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Swift Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Strength (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 3)


Level 21 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Overwhelming Critical


Level 22 (Epic)


Level 23 (Epic)


Level 24 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Epic Toughness


Level 25 (Epic)


Level 26 (Epic)
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Tactician


Level 27 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Blinding Speed


Level 28 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Elusive Target

I also added Force of Personality: I like the idea of being able to ignore WIS and still have decent Will saves, even though it's arguably the least important save; most Will-based spells can be blocked w/gear or buffs (e.g., Freedom of Movement protects against Hold). One advantage to dropping SD capstone is I freed enough APs to max out Dwarf Fortress & saves bonuses. This configuration is w/out Divine Might, though; I'll need to free 11 APs to add it in if/when BoU is Twisted in.

EDIT (2/5/14): for comparison's sake, here's a CON-based ftr 18 / pal 2 w/TYWA instead.

Code:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 04.20.01
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 28 Lawful Good Dwarf Female
(18 Fighter \ 2 Paladin \ 8 Epic) 
Hit Points: 622
Spell Points: 0 
BAB: 20\20\25\30\30
Fortitude: 28
Reflex: 10
Will: 11

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 28)
Strength             16                    23
Dexterity            11                    13
Constitution         18                    27
Intelligence         11                    13
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma             12                    14

Tomes Used
+2 Tome of Strength used at level 7
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Constitution used at level 7
+2 Tome of Intelligence used at level 7
+2 Tome of Charisma used at level 7
+5 Tome of Strength used at level 23

Level 1 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Cleave
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 2 (Paladin)
Feat: (Deity) Follower of the Sovereign Host


Level 3 (Paladin)
Feat: (Selected) Shield Mastery


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: CON
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Great Cleave


Level 5 (Fighter)


Level 6 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Bash
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Two Handed Fighting


Level 7 (Fighter)


Level 8 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: CON
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 9 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Mastery


Level 10 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Two Handed Fighting


Level 11 (Fighter)


Level 12 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: CON
Feat: (Selected) Combat Expertise
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Trip


Level 13 (Fighter)


Level 14 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Greater Two Handed Fighting


Level 15 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Force of Personality


Level 16 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: CON
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Dodge


Level 17 (Fighter)


Level 18 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Shield Deflection
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 19 (Fighter)


Level 20 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Sunder
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Armor Mastery (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Armor Mastery (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Armor Mastery (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Child of the Mountain (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarven Runes (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Stand Like Stone (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Dwarf Fortress (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Axe Training (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Dwarf - Throw Your Weight Around (Axes) (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Focus: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Spiritual Bond (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Strike With No Thought (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Extra Action Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Kensei Weapon Specialization: Axes (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Kensei (Ftr) - Haste Boost (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Toughness (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Overbalance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stalwart Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Stand Fast (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Defensive Sweep (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Durable Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Threatening Countenance (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Shield Striking (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Resilient Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Inciting Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Hardy Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Constitution (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Swift Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Tenacious Defense (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Constitution (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Stalwart Defender (Ftr) - Block and Cut (Rank 3)
Enhancement: Sacred Defender (Pal) - Holy Bastion (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Sacred Defender (Pal) - Sacred Armor Mastery (Rank 1)
Enhancement: Sacred Defender (Pal) - Sacred Armor Mastery (Rank 2)
Enhancement: Sacred Defender (Pal) - Sacred Armor Mastery (Rank 3)


Level 21 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Epic Toughness


Level 22 (Epic)


Level 23 (Epic)


Level 24 (Epic)
Ability Raise: STR
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Overwhelming Critical


Level 25 (Epic)


Level 26 (Epic)
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Perfect Two Handed Fighting


Level 27 (Epic)
Feat: (Selected) Epic: Blinding Speed


Level 28 (Epic)
Ability Raise: CON
Feat: (Epic Destiny) Epic Destiny: Elusive Target

The +5 STR tome is necessary to hit STR 23 for Overwhelming Crit; without it, the STR needs on this build are more modest (base 17 for ITHF/GTHF), but you also take a DPS hit.

**unbongwah** · 11-08-2013, 10:47 AM

Reserved for future use (x2)

**MagicBlade** · 11-08-2013, 11:59 AM

Interesting builds, although might I ask exactly how well the first 1 is? As a pure fighter, for tanking both dungeon quests and raids (with the right gear)..

EDIT: Also, why the Imp Crit Bludgeoning? Is there any other feat that'd work better?

**unbongwah** · 11-08-2013, 02:08 PM

IC:Blunt is a placeholder for Shield Deflection, which doesn't appear to be in the current builder.

I haven't done any "real" tanking with this build yet; she's currently only lvl 14 and running in a static duo with a RL friend, who's playing a cleric.

**Teh_Troll** · 11-08-2013, 02:27 PM

This is a darned good attempt at shining a tuhrd.

**MagicBlade** · 11-08-2013, 02:37 PM

Originally Posted by unbongwah

IC:Blunt is a placeholder for Shield Deflection, which doesn't appear to be in the current builder.

I haven't done any "real" tanking with this build yet; she's currently only lvl 14 and running in a static duo with a RL friend, who's playing a cleric.

Well, it's the only build I've seen that's actually in detail after the enhancement update, so I'll go with it.. and if I decide I don't like it, well... I have a LR+20 I can use and change classes... or attempt and stick it out until 20 then TR for something better...

Unbongwah - it's not part of the same topic, but might you know what good classes go with Drow?

**unbongwah** · 11-08-2013, 03:01 PM

Originally Posted by Teh_Troll

This is a darned good attempt at shining a tuhrd.

Errr, thanks, I guess? File that one under "damning with faint praise"...

Originally Posted by MagicBlade

Unbongwah - it's not part of the same topic, but might you know what good classes go with Drow?

Wizard or sorcerer are obvious choices, esp. if you don't have Warforged unlocked; +4 INT or CHA is good for either, naturally, and now that skill pts matter to casters, +2 INT on a sorc ain't so bad. +INT/DEX is also good for an INT-based Assassin, though obviously the -2 CON makes a squishy class even squishier. I still think drow are a good choice for a first-life TWF pally, esp. if you don't have 32-pt builds unlocked yet; now whether pallies are a good class in the first place is another matter entirely.

But my favorite drow build is probably still my first one: a DEX-based TWF rogue / bard. She's gimpy as hell, although U19 made DEX builds slightly less gimpy; but she's one of my oldest chars, so I still have a soft spot for her.

**Ralmeth** · 11-08-2013, 03:31 PM

Your build looks interesting, but the one thing you seem to really be missing is some self healing. A 2 Paladin splash seems to primarily get you a bonus to saves, unless you want to spend the points on Divine Might. What if you went with a 1 Cleric / 1 Rogue splash? Rogue would be to get you UMD for easy heal scrolling, and Cleric to get you access to cure spells while leveling up, an extra 75% healing to your heal scrolls, 3 APs for divine might which you power with your spell points and pots, and the ability to pick up empower healing for cacoon in epic levels? Just a thought.

**MagicBlade** · 11-08-2013, 03:52 PM

Originally Posted by unbongwah

Errr, thanks, I guess? File that one under "damning with faint praise"...

Wizard or sorcerer are obvious choices, esp. if you don't have Warforged unlocked; +4 INT or CHA is good for either, naturally, and now that skill pts matter to casters, +2 INT on a sorc ain't so bad. +INT/DEX is also good for an INT-based Assassin, though obviously the -2 CON makes a squishy class even squishier. I still think drow are a good choice for a first-life TWF pally, esp. if you don't have 32-pt builds unlocked yet; now whether pallies are a good class in the first place is another matter entirely.

But my favorite drow build is probably still my first one: a DEX-based TWF rogue / bard. She's gimpy as hell, although U19 made DEX builds slightly less gimpy; but she's one of my oldest chars, so I still have a soft spot for her.

Reason why I was asking that is because well for 1, Drow's racial enhancements lean more towards a twf rapier/ssword paladin or rogue.. or a ninja spy monk...

Currently I have a lvl 15 Palemaster, but I never play on her, atleast never did back before I quit... while I love spellcasters, the wizards of DDO aren't that great for me... seriously.. why even bother giving the arcane enhancements, whenever if you go with it for nukes, your outa sp in 2 seconds..mages aren't like that.. while they burn through sp...i've never seen a spellcaster burn through it more than wizards... even Palemasters burn through it..

Anyways, was asking because I'm trying to find a good alternate class I might can LR her into, to finish out the last 5 lvls and then TR.. prefer a ranged dps though, and so far, I've yet to see any really good ranged dps builds involving the drow...

**Vellrad** · 11-08-2013, 03:56 PM

Have you considered the immortal OC feat?

Also, if you have much too much feats, take sap and tell us how well it works

Originally Posted by Ralmeth

Your build looks interesting, but the one thing you seem to really be missing is some self healing. A 2 Paladin splash seems to primarily get you a bonus to saves, unless you want to spend the points on Divine Might. What if you went with a 1 Cleric / 1 Rogue splash? Rogue would be to get you UMD for easy heal scrolling, and Cleric to get you access to cure spells while leveling up, an extra 75% healing to your heal scrolls, 3 APs for divine might which you power with your spell points and pots, and the ability to pick up empower healing for cacoon in epic levels? Just a thought.

If you're tanking properly, keeping dungeon on yourself, I assure you, you won't need self heals.

**Xianio** · 11-08-2013, 04:58 PM

Hey, this is basically my pure Fighter just Dwarven instead of Human

The unfortunate thing about going pure Fighter is that there just aren't enough AP's to get the Kensai capstone, Block & Cut and Racial enhancements. You have to drop one to get the others

Personally, I decided to go without racial (except for 3 points for the action boost + 10% heal amp) and get the +46% doublestrike. If I were you that's what I would do as well. It's not that Dwarven Fortress isn't great, it's that the enhancements required to reach it are detrimental or pretty bad.
- Child of the Mountain: Some extra hp (awesome) More fort (good) Losing more reflex (terrible)
- Stand like Stone: 20 seconds of solid tankiness at the cost movement speed then a 3 minute CD

I like the Dwarf racial tree but unless you're going for AC I don't think it's worth giving up 20ish% doublestrike and all the other bonuses that either Kensai or StD provide.

On the plus side, you'll be tough as nails

When I last did the math I got (fully geared): 1000ish hp (you'll have more), 72% total physical damage reduction and around 1300 dps (You'll have a little less - Which is a little low but nothing to scoff at).

Plus thanks to Wall of Wood you can have 30% healing amp whenever you need it.

**unbongwah** · 11-08-2013, 09:30 PM

Originally Posted by Ralmeth

Your build looks interesting, but the one thing you seem to really be missing is some self healing.

The goal was to see what I could do with a pure S&B ftr under U19; I have plenty of other builds for abusing MCing mechanics.

The pally-splashed version is a bit of a cheat in that respect, but I thought I should throw it out there for anyone who wants something which addresses low saves. Long-term I'd like to put together some post-U19 pure-build threads I can point newbies to; I'm not ambitious enough to completely redo tihocan's thread, but I figure someone should get the ball rolling.

Originally Posted by Xianio

Plus thanks to Wall of Wood you can have 30% healing amp whenever you need it.

PDK gloves also provide 30% heal amp; you could use the WoW w/20% heal amp and find something w/10% amp to round it out. Random lootgen bracers w/Convalescent used to be fairly common, I thought, but I haven't seen them drop in a while.

**Arkadios** · 11-08-2013, 09:57 PM

Originally Posted by unbongwah

... Random lootgen bracers w/Convalescent used to be fairly common, I thought, but I haven't seen them drop in a while.

They were removed from the loot tables, I assume with u19.

**lugoman** · 11-08-2013, 11:27 PM

Dwarf Fortress is good, but way to expensive considering you have to get Child of the Mountain and Stand Like Stone, which arent very good imo.

**unbongwah** · 11-09-2013, 07:56 AM

Originally Posted by lugoman

Dwarf Fortress is good, but way to expensive considering you have to get Child of the Mountain and Stand Like Stone, which arent very good imo.

That was my initial thought, too, but it's just about the only S&B-specific racial DPS bonus out there, so I figured I would give it a shot. And 8 APs for +5% dmg isn't so bad; I can goose it to +7%, but not sure if I will.

This is largely an experiment to see if Turbine really "broke" S&B fighters, or it's still possible to make one viable, once you set aside the minmaxing perspective. I still have my LR +20, so worst-case scenario I give up and LR into a battlecleric or something...

**unbongwah** · 11-09-2013, 07:57 AM

Originally Posted by Arkadios

They were removed from the loot tables, I assume with u19.

Had a feeling that was the case.

Wish I'd stocked up on them over the summer!

**pappo** · 12-15-2013, 09:10 AM

Originally Posted by unbongwah

Level 2 (Fighter)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Two Handed Fighting

Level 6 (Fighter)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Shield Bash
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Improved Two Handed Fighting

Probably a newb question, but:

If you are fighting with Dwarven Axes and S&B, why do you take all the Two Handed Fighting Feats ?

**pappo** · 12-15-2013, 09:28 AM

Originally Posted by unbongwah

Level 28 True Neutral Dwarf Female
(20 Fighter \ 8 Epic)
Hit Points: 569
Spell Points: 0
BAB: 20\20\25\30\30
Fortitude: 21
Reflex: 7
Will: 6

With those Saves, won't he just be held and enfeebled all the time by casters ?

**BoBoDaClown** · 12-15-2013, 01:11 PM

Originally Posted by pappo

With those Saves, won't he just be held and enfeebled all the time by casters ?

a) Those aren't his endpoint saves.
b) Held isn't a problem in later levels because of FOM, and isn't too much of a problem in earlier levels because of AC/PRR etc
c) I don't think Ray of Enfeeblement gives a save?

That said - I would be interested in the saves on this build - obviously really important in EE.

Do you think you can get meaningful Reflex saves? You get +3 from Dwarven Runes?

Thread: Revisiting the Dwarven Defender

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