> Mikko wrote:
>
> > I'd say the ^20 should at least translate to a +10 in skill in a
> > simple contest, though it hardly means the same thing.
>
> In a simple contest, you'd narrate that they won because of their
> magically marvellous armour. No?
>
Just to jump in and muddy the waters further....I think most magical
edges are fairly specific. If you used a strengthen armour feat, it
won't work on those who don't have armour, if you use a shield
enhancing feat it will only apply when the shields can reasonably be
used (ie. not against attacks from behind, above, or that are so
massive a simple shield won't much matter.) Interestingly enough, I
don't recall any Orlanth feats that will generically toughen armour
or shields (although I expect some shield feats from the darker side
of the earth tribe). Errr, the exception of maybe "flickering
shield."
In the case of Starkval, his only defensive edge is "turn blow."
Very useful in fyrd combat, no doubt. Less useful when you are being
peppered with arrows or lightning bolts.
So in this case, I'd narate that they fyrd won because with marvelous
discipline the shield wall was held perfectly, every blow met by a
shield, every man covered his neighbour, and eventually they simply
wore down their opponents. Given how exciting this might not be to
play out, yes I think running it as a simple contest works much
better!
--Bryan