Wow, long time since I've posted here. Not much time to play, let alone post, these days. Finishing up my last year of University with a double major so my play time is. . . limited.

When I do get on, its mostly for either a short merit session (Hour to an hour and a half) and then leading Dynamis. Things go well in the dynamis shell, but that isn't what this post is about.

Lately I've been making time to get on and level SCH. Its currently 39 (er, 40, just dinged) and I'm honestly a bit surprised at how much fun I'm having just leveling. Now, this isn't SMN burning, or power leveled exp fests in West Ronf S. These are just honest to goodness parties in Yhoater Jungle.

I know, I know, "fun" and "leveling" in the same sentence is generally not allowed, but there is just something really calming about getting a party and just leveling again. I'd started to feel really cut off from the general FF community as my interest in end game fell off. First I left HNM, then I stopped doing everything but dynamis and sea, and now I don't even do sea. Most of my friends that still play are still very focused on end game shit, so I hardly get to play with them the times I am on, and the small social group in my shell mostly runs salvage together (barring me). I'm almost always just on the outskirts not doing anything, and that really takes its toll.

Even more than that, I think I was just sick of the stress from leading shit all the time. Its refreshing playing with people I don't know, and don't feel I owe anything. I'm just there to get levels, same footing as everyone else in the party. Its oddly nice to know that I'm, for all intents and purposes, just a lowbie again.

I guess all I'm saying is that if you're getting fed up with the game, or feeling mad at end game, or getting stressed, or really whatever, try leveling another job up the normal way. Don't go in with the mind set that you want to be 75 asap, just have fun with it. Don't worry about the gear of the level sync'd PLD, or that the BLU isn't in the idle TP setup. Getting 10k/hour all the time isn't nearly as fun as just enjoying yourself with a slower group.

Wow, been a LONG time since I've posted here, mostly due to being in my final year of college (For anyone interested in that, or computer science, you can check out my RL blog at botw3.wordpress.com /selflessAdvertisement off). After I received my Shenlong's I started putting a lot of focus on melee PUP again. However, due to my limited play time, I've been forced to find alternatives for Usukane gear, most notably feet.


TP Gear


This is my TP gear at the moment for /DRG. You'll notice That I hit 22% Haste, which is fairly solid. I tend to run with pizza in this setup, for the obvious benefit of the extra attack mixed with a good acc boost. The Promptitude Solea (Only pair on alexander atm? Only NA pair at any rate) took me ~4 days to get, as the NM was a HORRENDOUS bitch. No words can properly express my hatred for that bomb. The legs are augmented with +7 Acc +3 Haste, the body is +10 Acc +10 Atk (They double as COR TP pieces). That IS an Animator +1. If I do go /WAR, I use a +2 acc earring in place of the Wyvern earring.


WS Gear


This is my WS gear, its pretty straight forward. Heavy focus on Acc. since Stringing Pummel is a multi hit. I need to get my other Temenos piece still for AF+1 feet, but those zones hate me something fierce. I've been camping the new +12 Acc. +6 Atk. belt NM too, and I need to get the new DNC/PUP WS legs, but I haven't had any luck yet.


So yeah, that's my quick gear update for PUP. I'll hopefully make a more interesting post some time soon, as time permits.

This post is going to be fairly math heavy, and requires knowlege of some of the FFXI forumulas. If you're not interested in knowing these, skip all the cuts and proceed to the bottom of the post for a summery.

Before I start, I should say this: This post is intended NOT to prove that Ranged TP is better than Melee TP. As always, "Shit is Situational" is the name of the game, and this post looks into the math behind COR as a ranged TP for situations where it is practicle as well as situations where it is both faster and slower than melee TP.

( Formulas to know )


( 6-Hit with Gun (Delay 600) )

( 5-Hit with 600 Delay Gun )
( Silver Cassandra (Delay 480) builds ) ( Joyeuse )
( Non-Multihit Melee Weapons: Phantom Fleuret and Trailer's Kukri )

( Conclusion )

I apologize for the horribly small picture.  I simply uploaded to facebook rather than going through photobucket.  I will gladly answer any questions about the strategy as best I can.  To clarify, I was NOT on PUP for the fight.  I was one of two WHMs in the lamp holding party (PLD PLD WHM WHM RDM BRD).

Writing this more for myself and as a guide for my co-leaders, but I figure its something everyone who isn't should be aware of.  This is hardly a "new" strategy, BLM burning has been around for years, but in avoided by many shells either due to a lack of understanding of the basics, or a seeming lack of BLMs/members.  In truth,  BLM burning can be done with as few as 6, and is extremely efficient in groups of 12-18.

I suppose I should start with some background, so its clear I'm not just talking out my ass.  Dynamis is one of the few events in FFXI that I love to do.  Since I started Dynamis in 2006 (earlier? Not sure, long time ago now) I've lead 2 successful shells, and co-lead another 2 shells.  At the moment I lead the dynamis shell "ClockworkDynamis" (Henceforth called CWD) on Alexander server.  I've lead groups ranging from 10 to 50+, though CWD is a small man shell with runs ranging from 10-18 members.  As I lead shells for players not in serious end game (despite being a part of said scene on Alexander) I've had to come up with ways to deal with very low man situations for players without some of the rediculas high end gear.  CWD is a strong shell with smart players all with at or above average gear, so my experience with manaburning is heavily influenced by my member's ability to follow directions and act in a professional manor.

1) What is manaburning?

A legitiment question!  Manaburning is a term used to describe what amounts to run of only BLMs + support (BRDs, CORs, RDMs) and a THF.  This allows for a very fast pace of movement, powerful link control, and a lower number of members.  A serious BLM shell can easily burn any non-CoP dynamis zone and can make short work of Dynamis-Tavnazia.

2) Why manaburning?

Now that we all are on the same page about WHAT it is, we can address the question of why.  The general reason for running a BLM burn is to power through a zone with minimal members.  A group as small as 6 can easily make bank in a dynamis zone, and a group ranging from 12 to 18 can farm entire zones without difficulty.  Smaller groups are often more stable than large groups and allow for a more free lotting system, as well as allowing for better control and movement throughout zones.

3) What is needed for a successful manaburn?

Ah, the question that can make or break a manaburn for some shells.  I'll break this down into a few sections:

3a) Jobs

As I run manaburns generally when I have less than 15, I'll be using my 14 man setup as the example. 

For a successful burn, the first things you'll need are BLMs.  In a 14 man group, I run 7-9 BLMs.  Try to keep all the BLMs the same subjob, or at least make sure they either all sub a fast cast subjob of the same time (i.e. all /RDM, all /SCH, or neither /RDM or /SCH).  My BLMs either sub WHM or NIN.  I would advise against /SCH as it fails to provide Stoneskin.  Technically BLMs CAN sub anything they want, as long as they are capable of adjusting their nuke start time for timed nukes.  While some groups can pull this off, I would suggest sticking to the "no fast cast or all fast cast" rule to simplify things.

Secondly,  you need some sort of refresh for the BLMs.  The ideal setup is, clearly, BRD + COR for all BLM parties, however splitting what BRDs and CORs you have between the two by party will also work if you don't have enough for both.  BRDs should clearly stick to /WHM, and help with cures.  CORs as well should sub WHM, if only for Raise and reraise.  /RDM is also acceptable for the MAB+ with QD, but the lack of raise and reraise can hurt.  Evoker's + Wizard's are the rolls of choice, with double ballad from the BRD.

Assuming 8 BLMs and 4 COR+BRDs (totalling 12) I also suggest bringing a RDM/BLM as support sleeping, as well as a THF.

Alliance formation should look like this:

BLM
BLM
BLM
BLM
COR/WHM
BRD/WHM

BLM 
BLM
BLM
BLM
COR/WHM
BRD/WHM

RDM/BLM
THF/NIN, /RNG, or /WHM, depending on roll.

3a-1) Role of jobs

A note on the role of jobs in this setup.  BLMs are your primary sleepers, and should keep a weather eye out for mobs that wake up.  Any and all RDMs are backup sleepers and healers.   They should spend the entire run looking for mobs that are awake when the BLMs are casting.

CORs and BRDs should also be watching out for sleeps once mobs are pulled.  Some mobs (especially BST pets such as slimes) have a very fast cast rate and are resistent to dark based sleeps.  Both BRDs and CORs are light-based sleepers and should take advantage of this.

The THF is there to stick TH, help sleep with bolts, and pull if its called for.  In my shell I pull on COR/NIN while buffing BLMs and Sleeping, but other shells with THF pullers can simply let the THF pull instead.  TH should be applied using either a JA (Steal/Mug) or sleep bolts (hence /RNG).


3b) A competent lead BLM and a knowlege of how to time nuke

Depending on the experience of the shell, the gear of the members, and the intelligence of the members, this can be done in 3 different ways. 

3b-1) Full group time nuke

In a small group of average players, this is the approach I would suggest.  It uses standard time nuking rules.  The lead BLM will call a target and time, and all other BLMs /assist that BLM and nuke in time.  7-9 T4 nukes from averagely geared players will easily kill a mob.  Repeat this for all mobs up. 

Statues should be killed first, and should be free nuked down, once those are out of the way the rest of the mobs will fall easily.  I find it very helpful to have a dedicated sleeper BLM for pulls to allow the other BLMs to quickly dispatch the statues, though a RDM sleeper is also acceptable.  Remember to tell your sleeper BLM (or RDM, or both) to wait for mobs to get back to camp to avoid other walking statues agroing the slept mobs.
 

3b-2) Nukes by party / multileader approach

In a larger group of experienced, well geared/merited BLMs, this proves to be a faster approach.  I suggest this for groups of 18+ with multiple parties of BLMs.

Similar to the previous setup, you will have a BLM leader.  However, rather than have 1 for the whole group, each party will have 1 leader.  Each leader will call a mob and their appropriate party will time nuke that mob.  Well geared players will generally kill a Dynamis mob with a 4 T4 time nuke, but some T3 free nukes directly after may be needed so adjust as you have to.

Much like the last setup statues should be free nuked.  Your Sleeper BLM should generally not be the leader of either group, or should be entirely replaced by a RDM.

THIS IS A HARDER VERSION OF THE STRATEGY TO PULL OFF, BUT IF DONE CORRECTLY WILL SPEED UP KILLS AND PULLS.

3b-3) Timed -ga nuking

While not recommended, as it (supposed) puts a heavy negative on TH, you can perform the first strategy using -ga nuking aswell.  Nothing really changes except that the support need to be VERY fast on sleeping mobs after the -gas go off.

3b-4) A note about the BLM leaders

These members need to be competent, should know the order of mobs, and need to be able to stay focused the entire run.  They should always (ALWAYS) engage the mob, to allow other BLMs to use the /assist command.  This is invaluable when dealing with multiple mobs of the same name.

3c) Foreknowlege of the zone

Don't go into a zone not knowing where the MP statues are.  Don't go into a zone not knowing the best routes.  Know where BST mobs spawn.  Bring the needed meds to deal with BST pets if they get spells off (I.e. Echos for birds, remedies for Slimes, etc etc).  Taking care of these basics and preparing for the zone you plan on doing is the most important part of the run.  Going in unprepared is just going to end in a lot of butt hurt members and a lower EXP count than prior to entering.

4) Tips, hints, and follow-up

Some things to keep in mind when planning a manaburn shell or group:

- Bring RR,  don't let people slack off on this.  Dying isn't the problem, raising isn't the problem, its the time lost

- Start small.  On pulls, make sure to start with small pulls to give BLMs a chance to get used to how the BLM leaders are calling on any specific day. 

- Stay together on large pulls.  BLMs have this nasty habit of spreading really far out.  Not only does this hurt your buffers who need them to be closer, but on large pulls where more than 1 BLM will have hate on many mobs, it will cause mobs to spread out and be harder to sleep.  Stick together and the sleepers will have an easier time landing sleepga.

- Statues.  Two things here. 
1) Kill them ASAP.  If you don't kill them quickly on large pulls (and even small ones) you run the risk of wiping.  They may die easy and look weak, but they can fuck up BLMs without much effort.
2) Save the MP statues.  If you can help it, pull them when you're getting low on MP.  If they link with more than 1 statue, kill them last to give your BLMs full MP for the mobs.

- Large links aren't the end of the world.  Seriously, a group of 12 can kill all of the walking statues on the bottom floor of Jeuno without deaths.  Watch sleeps, kill statues fast, can you can make it through fine.  Just because you're small man doesn't mean you're SOL when you screw up a pull.

Manaburning Dynamis is extremely efficient, can be pulled off with very small groups, and can be done with a high degree of success even by a group of averagely geared players.  Hopefully this guide will help shells just starting off get a foothold into BLM burning Dynamis.  I do appriciate any comments and will try my best to answer any questions involving anything here.

Best of luck!


(this is the first verison of this guide and is subject to change.  Please try at your own risk.  Comment respectfully please, aggressive insults may be removed by author)

As I right this, I'm performing what will probably be my last attempt at soloing Apollyon SE on PUP.  For many reasons, I have decided to cease my pursuit of this goal.  Almost definitely I have, in fact, proven that it cannot be done with where PUP is now.  The gap between the number of sleeps I land vs resisted is just too large.  PUP has a few crucial flaws which prevent it from being able to do this solo /SCH, which I'll address. Furthermore, there is a simple lack of gear to push us over that small hump.

All things considered, I actually learned a great deal from this excerise.  I've pushed my /SCH build to its limit, and I've seen what it can and can't do in situations such as this.  I wont be so concieted as to say that I'm the most knowlegeable about the abilities of PUP/SCH, but I feel I can safely say that I fall among the highest ranking.

1) Gear limit

I wont beat around the bush on this, I almost definitely have the best /SCH sleep build across all servers for PUP.  I'm missing around 6-10 M.Acc between what I have now and what is possible, which wouldn't be enough to close the gap between where I am now and where I need to be with sleeps on these slimes.
Relevent Stats:

INT 70 +41
Enfeebling Magic: 269 (this is with 8/8 enfeebling merits)
M.Acc : +a ton, uh +47 assuming HQ staff gives +30

However, even with double dark weather, PUP/SCH suffers from a serious lack of sleep power.  I have maybe a 85% sleep rate on the slimes, though that is admittedly eye balling it.  I highly doubt I would cap out my M.Acc with the few pieces of gear I still need (Alturistic Cape, +5 INT belt, Omega Ring, Enfeebling Earring, HQ INT earring).  I also cannot devote INT merits to this build, as my WHM and RDM demand them to be MND.  I do have the advantage of being a Taru, but it seems not even our naturally high INT can save this.


2) Logistical Issues

Put in the most simple of ways: There aren't enough sleeps in PUPs spell book to allow this to happen.  Even with a dedicated PTD/12% kite build, the chance for death after a missed sleep is almost 100% on slimes.  This is the biggest issue with the startegy, as even with capped or nearly capped gear landing every sleep is more or less impossible.  The recast on our Automatons is too long (even with recast down merits) to really recover from a wipe, and dying twice in a row with your puppet out ends the run, no exception.

Furthermore, I'm not sure I can deal enough damage in the time alloted.  Though I ran through the math when I first thought of this, I stupidly missed a few crucial factors in the calculations.  It was cutting it close before, but now I'm even less sure.  My highest triple ice nuke (with AF2 feet/legs + Mirke) was 1293, but maintaining triple ice for the duration of the run (Barring The Kink) isn't fesible.  At the end of the day, the damage just doesn't seem to be there, though I'll have to actually run through the math before I can say for sure.



Possible ways it could maybe work, maybe

Now while I wont be doing any more test runs myself, thats not to say I haven't thought of ways to improve on the chance.  At this point, I feel confident saying that to make it would you would need to go in on Darks day with the Dark Obi on.  The boost in M.Acc from that (along with gear comperable to mine) may be enough to push you over the edge on sleep resists.  Other than that, I'm kind of at a dead end for /SCH.


So yeah, I encourage people who are interested to continue trying and keep me informed on how it goes for them.  I'd love nothing more than to see this go through, but I need to hang up my hat on SE Apollyon.  All my information and thoughts will, obviously, still be available on the blog, and I'll always be happy to answer questions if people feel the need to ask them.

That's me in the center, on PUP!  My friends and I blew through the missions these past couple days and had a total blast.  From left to right: Kyntajara, Taruvoyant, Ramandor, Genmu, Dantaro (me!), and Aiki.  Our setup was PLD (Ram) COR (Taru) WHM (me) BRD (Aiki) SMN (Kynt) and RNG (Gen).  We all agreed that the expansion was worth every cent, and we're all super excited for the next one!

Its time for a WHM update! Why? Because I've finally completed getting all of the buyable WHM gear I've been after!


After what seems like an eternity (though is really only about 3-5 months since I started collecting them) I've finally finished my WHM buyable gear, most notably my blessed +1! I'm not sure how it is on other servers, but the stuff is exceedingly expensive and VERY hard to find. In total I spent about 10-12m total on all three pieces, and it was well worth it!



Mmmm, just shy if 1k HP. This is the gear I swap back to after every spell. With 987HP my Sublimation restores 246MP. I could actually push it higher by idling in a Gigant Mantle, BQR/BBR, and some other +HP pieces in slots like R.Ear and Neck, but I rather like showing off some of my gear too much. Yes, that is a White Tath in the Ammo Slot, not a lolPhantom Tath.

I've been thinking a lot lately about FFXI Blogging, and what it means to be a part of TTTO and the FFXI LJ community. How does what we post, as bloggers effect the view of the game? The view of our servers? The view of the player base? What, exactly, is our roll as bloggers.

I'd like to start this post of by saying that yes, this post was influenced by the recent string of posts made by Starcade, as well as the flame war comment section, and the insult thread on BG.


What IS blogging all about, anyway?

Ah, the big question. WHY do we all blog about FFXI? Some people blog because they like to have a place to keep their thoughts. Some people blog as a way of introducing new ideas into the community. Many just want a way to share their story. Blogging is a form of expression, a way of telling a story and sharing information. One might compare it to a television show, each one in some way similar but with its own twists. However, just like television, blogging can be abused.

Why do I blog?

Blogging for me, personally, has changed since I started. Originally I wanted to simply share my experiences leveling PUP, but when staticing caused me to level too far too fast to right about, my focus changed to writing about ways to use PUP in a non-standard form. Most of my major posts have been in relation to solo Apollyon, but if you go back you'll find simple stories about leveling.

What do you mean "abused?"

Blogging is much like the news in many aspects. The best way to get viewership is to stir up controversy. Sometimes said controversy is legitimate, and needs to be addressed. Most of the time though, controversy is maintained because it brings in viewers, not because it’s a serious issue in the community. Similarly, in the blogging community people feel the need to address controversy. This is a good thing! Controversy brings change. The issue is when people approach it the wrong way, or prodeced to follow through in ways that are detrimental.

How can it be detrimental to follow through?

Controversy should spawn conversation and dialog, it shouldn't start flame wars. Take, for example, the Jan. 22 banning. Kaeko did a fantastic job of presenting both side of the arguement. His posts provoked conversations in the comments, it started dialog between players of both sides, and it didn't cause fights. However, other posts on blogs took either an extremely defensive position, or an overly offensive position, which has lead to a flood of insults being thrown around. This is not constructive.

Ok, so some mistakes were made. . .

Yeah, mistakes were made. People have very strong opinions, that can't be helped. Now and then there are going to be community wide disagreements. If things had simply ended after that week, everything would be fine. However, things have haven't simply stopped and in some cases, things have escalated to the point of being ridicules and harmful to the community. Threats on people's real lives, threats on in game characters, scare tactics, and smear tactics have all made appearances.

Harmful to the community how?

Most in appearance. What would you say if you saw a group of people throwing insults around without reason? If someone was to check one of Starcade's blog posts now and see the kind of things being written, or if someone was to log onto BG and read through the seven page thread about the subject, they would get an extremely negative view of us as a community. Furthermore, its a split in the community. It drives a stake between the "casual" player and the "end game" player. People feel they have to choose a side, and those who post in the middle are either ignored or insulted for it.

What about how this affects TTTO?

Honestly, these posts are becoming an eye-soar on TTTO. I'm sure I'm not the only one to feel this way. When I load up TTTO I want to see blogs titled "Corsair 37! Ouryu Cometh! And Other Fun Stuff!" or "Survey Results from Japanese Players" (apologies to EvilPaul and Elmer), not ones titled "Another week playing in the flames," "FFXI has officially died," or "Flameage part: " Especially in the ever increasing numbers that they appear in. Negative posts breed negative feelings, and negative feels breed more negative posts.

Aren't you being a bit hard on Starcade?

Am I? Ok ok, so he's wasn't the only person following the 22nd, but if anyone has kept the spirit alive its him. Well, him and those who reply. On forums there is a unwritten rule saying "Don't feed the trolls," which applies here too. However, in this case its not as simple as saying one person is the troll. Starcade feeds the BGites, and the BGites feed Starcade. Its a cycle.

OK, so what?

I suppose my point is that its time to let things die. TTTO and the blogging community as a whole doesn't need this. Similarly, it doesn't need people outside the blogging community encouraging these posts with their replies and aggressive actions. The horse is dead, don't keep beating it.

Hold on Dan, doesn't this post make you no better than Starcade and the BGites?

I suppose, though I'm content to leave it at this. I've said what I needed to say and however it pans out, it pans out. More so though, I'm hoping this will discourage such action in the future. FFXI has one of, if not the, strongest communities of all MMOs. Sites like Alla, KI, BG, and others have done a wonderful job of promoting help between players, and the blog community has always been a powerful tool to show the connection between players, and build upon them. Lets not throw this all away in the name of being "right."

So coming back to the title of the post, what DOES it mean to be a part of the community?

Being part of the community means being part of something bigger than ourselves. Its not about being 1 person against the hordes of cheats, or being the lone Robin Hood who bots Fafnir for the good of his linkshell. Its not about causes contraversy or starting fights. Its about admiring the adventures of others. Its about learning things you might not have known before. Its about celebrating the triumphs, morning the losses, and discovering parts of the game many of us long time players have forgetten and many of the new players have yet to experience.

TTTO and other blogging communities are a strong symbol of the connection and joy the game brings to people around the world. I just ask that the community make an attempt to stop the degradation of our community

This is a repost of my Finale resignation. Posting it here more for myself than anyone else. GL Finale, <3 you all



Well, probably not the best time to be posting my farewell speech, but I might as well do it now.

First off, I want to clear up that I'm not leaving because I dislike people, or I think I was wronged by losing my loting rights. Those kinds of things I can get past. I'm leaving because my time in HNM is over. I made it pretty clear in my post about fixing the shell that I view kings as a waste of time, and I suppose I should have left then. If you've been on at all you know my play time is limited by school, and spending 3+ hours camping kings daily simply doesn't let me enjoy FFXI like I want to.

That being said, I'm extremely grateful to Finale, and everyone in the shell. Flashback with me now to when Finale was established. I was given a rare chance to join within 30 minutes of the shell being made, and took my chances. I had been lined up to join with GS but opted to go with Finale, and I never looked back. Some of the most fun I've had in the past couple years have been in Finale, I remember the days of 6 hour tiamats, I remember Pinger flailing our first Tiamat at 2%, I remember being a part of the day long Tiamat, I'll never forget our first Fafnir claim with Cazos screaming in vent about how he Elegy claimed Faffy. More important than the moments though are the people.

This list includes a lot of people who are no longer in Finale, or who left the game. I feel I should mention them all though.

Hyriu: First and foremost I want to thank you. You've been a great friend since day 1 and you gave me a no-questions-asked pearl after RE broke. I can't thank you enough for giving me that chance.

Aella: Can't really say enough about you. You've been there for me in game and out. I'm sure we'll talk again on MSN :)

Riker: My Bro. My bff. You've been there for me since I met you. Much love

Majiri: God, Majiri, what to say about you? You've put up with my questions about JP language and culture, and been there as a friend. I hope we can maintain a friendship for a long time to come!

Amice: <3! I might not be in finale with you anymore, but <333! Please still talk to me ^-^

Eron: We don't always see eye to eye about shit, but you've had my back when I've needed it. Keep on keeping on!

Haimon: Same as with eron, you and I don't always see eye to eye. Stop playing the good guy all the time though. You're a great guy, but some times you can't make compromises. And I'm glad to see you as a sack! I'll see you round in game, look forward to meriting with you some time :P

Klien: You were one of the main reasons I stayed in Finale as long as I did. You're a great friend. Buck up kid!

Drakeman: You and I already talked. And I'm still your #1 sugar!

Csestaminx: YOU! The man who always had my back. I'll never forget leveling BRD with you between camps way back when XD God, what were we thinking staying up till 4AM. Maybe you'll come back to the game, maybe not. I hope to see you around though man, you have my AIM, stay in contact.

Manae: Despite what the frenchman says, I don't think you hate me. And even if you did, I still <3 you long time.

Berzerk: another one of the people that kept me in Finale. Good times, man. Good times.

Tomda: hit me up on AIM man. Hit me up on aim. . .


I'm sorry I have to bail at the same time as everyone else. I especially worry about the JPs, and I hope Majiri will read this and help explain to them that I'm not leaving to spite anyone. I'm just tired of having to give up my limited play time to camp. Yeah, I've had issues with the leadership, but nothing that hasn't been talked out. I've had issues with players, but even those can be resolved pretty peacefully. I very much hope everyone here wont think ill of me for this.

To clear a few things up though:
1) Haimon is now your best WHM, don't forget that.
2) Despite what a lot of people say, Alexander is a bot oriented server and if you don't get more people consistently on LC you're not going to get claims.
3) Yes I'll start off in Zerk's LS, but if I find myself being asked to camp or risk being removed I'll take myself to LTC. I'm firm on where I stand with what I want from FFXI.
4) I have, in fact, had arguments with Sig. A couple come to mind. But I've always talked them out. Don't be so scared to approach him guys, he'll listen if you talk to him in person.
5) Yeah, I'm a cocky ass hole some times. I don't regret the arguments I've had on the forums with people like Heretic and Rison (fuck Rison).
6) I've NEVER given a ToD to Aiki or anyone else in CL.


I hope you all understand why I'm posting this, I want to leave on a good note with everyone (especially the JP members!). Have a leader contact me when you want to break my pearl. If you have any questions about why I'm leaving, just send me a tell and we'll talk.

Take care guys, I'll see you all around the game!

First off, Yay 75 COR! That makes 5x 75 jobs now (WHM BRD DRG PUP COR, in that order). Now comes the fun of gearing/HQing/Meriting.

Now though. . . gearing. . . I'm looking for advice and suggestions (Beyond leveling RNG sub, I'm working on it.) Mostly WS gear, the TP stuff I thing I can work out on my own. . .

( Gear setups! )

Sooooo yeah, advise me!


And now, pictures of me seducing Aiki

So while I try and reserve my posts for things of merit (i.e. PUP/SCH solos, (to-be) COR solos, etc etc) I need to take some time to talk about the Dynamis shell I run. Partly doing this because I like talking about it, but mostly because they really impressed me yesterday.

I suppose I should start with some background though. I've been doing Dynamis now for ~4 years. I've been part of 4 shells (and run with others as a helper). Of those four, I've lead 2, and I've been an officer in all four.

Originally I ran with big group shells, 30 to 50 people a run. About a year and a half ago I was invited to join my first small man group, doing runs with 18-24. This opened up a whole new way of doing dynamis for me. Prior to that the first shell I ran (well, co-ran with Riker) had been a semi-successful large man shell.

In Sept. '08, after gathering friends and players that I knew, I officially started "Clockwork Dynamis," though its lovingly known as "CWD" now. CWD was my first venture into making a small man dynamis shell. Generally we run with 15-18 people, and on average pull in about 150-200 coins a run (more in bastok, because its looser than a three breasted woman). The entire shell is bank driven and maintained. The first run, just prior to the 500k glass update, set the joining cost at 72k. Every new member who joins pays the same 72k one time fee, which goes directly to the bank.

All in all though, what makes CWD special is the people. There are very few players in my shell who, gear wise, are up to par with say. . . people in HNM. But I'll be damned if they don't perform on par. While I suppose our 14 man Jeuno win isn't really that impressive, and our 16 man Beauc win isn't the most amazing thing ever, the fact that a shell with members who might not have all the fancy HQ pieces or the Novio earrings can still pull off things like that makes it obvious that gear is a fairly minor factor. People listen, people respond, and everyone in the shell understands that its not about them.

If there is anything I've learned in the times I've lead a shell, its that creating a sense of family between the members is key. Making everyone understand that watching someone else get a Valor body or seeing the pair of DNC legs you lotted on be won by someone else isn't a punishment. Its a gift to the shell as a whole. And I've never had the honor of leading a group of people more dedicated to this thought than those I lead in CWD.


I'm writing this right now because I feel I owe them all a great thank you. After 4 years of doing Dynamis I've only seen 2 AF2 WHM bodies drop. The first one in TMI, which I gave to Deezma to complete her AF2, and the other last night. Last night, however, those WHMs in the shell who still needed the body selflessly passed it to me, completing my WHM AF2, despite having already received my AF2 BRD body during the same run. I'm proud to say that I lead the shell, and I'm proud to call everyone in it my friend.

Here is to CWD, may we get many more AF for all of you!

The current list from BG as of 1-23-09 5:35PM CST

My condolences to all those listed, to all the linkshells destroyed, and all the friends lost. You wont be forgotten. Some may say what SE did was needed. Some may call you cheaters. But regardless of if you knowingly cheated or if you were dragged in without knowing, you're still all friends of someone, and still deserve our sympathies. Best of luck with all your travels in the future.

Apologies to Aristo for use of this list.

Alexander-19
Analisa
Barok
Blackstring
Chocoboy
Csestaminx (Amano)
Denkou
Humphrey
Jamesy
Lutho (Aegis)
Meilin
Navarius
Nefzen
Sadon
Samauri
Sigifrith
Sipher
Slayor
Sondrok
Teejaytee

Asura-100
Achilleus
Alastair
Aldar
Algrensan (Amamomurakumo)
Andraus
Angelyka
Animusprime
Annona
Arhtimra
Arithomas
Arouz
Artemesia
Balthasar
Blufyre
Booyaka (Aegis)
Bosko
Burginator
Ccl
Chareos
Crazysanders
Crowdia
Damiel
Darclotus
Darkkilla
Dawin
Demonhunter(Amamo)(Aegis)
Denroaro
Draxl
Epic
Eske
Fejire
Frantz
Gangstac
Glx
Goldie
Gotrice
Hajimestrife
Happygilmore
Hyowon
Hyugaut
Iloteye
Isadora
Jackburton
Jairaya
Jamofu
Jivien
Kageno
Keara
Killathugz
Kmac
Kryshna
Kuoman
Kyjelly
Lancelot(Burtang)(Aegis)(D.Ring)
Layah
Lordwafik(Mandau)
Ludacarl
Luthy
Madherk
Magnum
Mahado
Masaru
Masterblaster
Moraine
Mugatu
Nexai
Phenodan
Rainesong(Excalibur)
Rajah
Rakshan
Rickmade
Rivers
Sarakerrigan
Scibbles
Selits (Aegis)
Slainez
Slone
Snakeh
Soichiro
Sorahitou
Sushix
Swupneagle
Syon
Taitasu
Tethys
Tharock
Thunderjulot
Tiberiusara
Tiggerette
Tonix
Treliant
Tripleh
Veln
Warutaru
Xathea
Xave
Yann
Yara-Save the Queen!
Yrpaine

Bahamut-5
Blakeyardburger
Dexil
Genosync
Pawky
Spartin

Bismark-40
Aecstaa(Ares/Apocalypse)
Alhandra
Ancrof
Batosai
Chronik
Doomcrack(Apocalypse/Aegis/D.ring)
Doompie (Amano/Usukane)
Draaac(Amano/Mars's)
Elfusy
Elvemine(Bellona's)
Hellangelz
Hershel
Horga
Ices
Jhun(Ares/Aegis/D.Ring)
Kaken
Kichii
Kitha
Korall
Liav(Skadi)
Logo
Lucresia(Morrigan)
Mafai
Mateljan
Megido(Annihilator/Bellona's)
Melayna
Minidragon(Ares/Marduk/Usukane/Skadi/D.Ring/Amano/Kikoku/Aegis/Apocalypse/Ghorn/Mandau/Mars's Ring/Ninurta Sash)
Phelony (D.Ring)
Revann (Morrigan/Minerva's)
Rutiger
Schism
Scorchess
Shiki
Stelaereous
Thalia(D.Ring/Ninurta)
Tajian
Vimon
Wenslydale
Zoreeno

Caitsith-NA

Carbuncle-34
Aihree
Golive
Gonks
Jrunk
Kigen
Reaver
Sumin
Tempestwolf
Ickeris
Crouchingllama
Mrwhitefolks
Alix
Shukudai
Chinchilla
Ronjeremy
Mogknight
Japes
Mallister
Tinyturd
Artix
Heavyrock (Yoichi)(Sphrai)
Bobbyray (Morigan)
Finalwolf
Calamityjr
Kevmon
Losecontrol
Merrick
Seraa
Domonick(Apocolypse)
Calypso
Governor
Doub
Leonhartx

Cerberus-NA

Diabolos-3
Deuciont
Lilsky
Oldone

Fairy-9
Smokari
Frodnnonag
Gulliblesap
Siknoz
Ayna
Shadowed
Ticko
Yetimon/Ellyana
Utka

Fenrir-NA

Garuda-22
Jackyl(Aegis)(Spharai)(Amamo)(Burtang)
Veyron
Richardd
Taush
Dankster(Apoc)
Leif
Byrthnoth
Kujo(Gjallarhorn)
Darlin
Gaius
Aztech
Jeli
Tirgen
Jukoss
Oro
Sakiyo
Darlin
Killlkrow
Lyn
Virgil
Goldo
Inahsakhalin

Gilgamesh-NA

Hades-22
Dakana
Zahruk
Ferien
Xrianbiiirnfobo
Heartslaught
Cablemonkey
Ycart
Phane
Pdizzle
Malfete
Jinroku
Vegi (Apocolypse)(Gjallahorn)
Nephilim(Gjallahorn)
Brandonheat
Boogers
Jehkar
Lordmoon
Demoflash
Shandreax (Kikoku)(Apocalypse)
Elious
Lorderic
Miraa
Denaub
Draconia
Val
Tuimero
Lux
Frodorn
Varg(Gjallahorn)
Cursed (Aegis)

Ifrit

Kujata-3
Heavencloud
Vivix
Seditedi

Lakshmi-NA

Leviathan-10
Pesan
Kaype
Mexicanknight
Gades
Chaoslegion
Hottie
Dragonofthewind
Digerati
Pheonix
Bobicho

Midgardsormr-11
Jamibian (Aegis)
Avy (Yoichi)(Apoc)
Minions (Aegis)
Zoicite
Daz
Caz
Ysukie
Redbun
Nunuu
Smith
Corwen (Sphari)(Kikoku)

Odin-11
Baroom
Kairia
Kalah
Vagus
Willriker
Anthimus
Tuufless
Goodrats
Oreeooo
Croxx
Kaeko

Pandemonium-5
Ridabond
Yekim
Lyramion(Kikoku)
Whimsic(Morigan)
Wopadobop (Aegis)(Mandau)(Excalibur)(Apocalypse)(Gjallarhorn )

Pheonix-35
Swiss
Dmize
Yuch
Starwindd
Rapturer
Hummy(Annihilator)
Ngille
Vasio
Nizzi
Yumigo
Skiezier(Apocalypse)
Destai
Zeratu
Stonymonk
Miraun
Neosutra(Aegis)
Slickdarula
Thepillorian
Mireire
Reoin
Jigly
Soleef
Ryko
Caelia
Dilias(Aegis, Excalibur)
Legoles(Aegis)
Niki(Gjallarhorn)
Dbdesigns(Apocalypse)
Baudelaire(Amanomurakumo)
Shins(Spharai, Apocalypse)
Destai
Kin(Amanomurakumo)
Jibril
Mireire

Quetzalcoatl-NA

Ragnarok-11
Cruzader
Deemos
Yunie
Kinta
Akage
Nightt
Kumaccio (Aegis)(Ares)(Valhalla)
Dritzzo (Aegis)(Ares)
Kamalii (Gjallarhorn)(Aegis)
Anjinjol (Annihilator)(Morrigan)
Revenge (Full Usukane)

Ramuh-2
Jinks
Littlepryo

Remora-11
Ianpier
Jojoke
Foli (Bravura)
Roxan (Apocolypse)(Aegis)
Mhaya (Bravura)
Garlaorn (Morrigans)
Daonlytruazn (Gjallarhorn)
Mystics
Hakutaru
Naori
Inuyashakite
Tickles

Seraph-NA

Shiva-27
Evildemon
Overburn
Escaflowne
Ragnarzero
Validok
Azmaveth
Birks
Kittied
Gigantore
Aristocat
Demieagleeye
Misstauren
Delpiero
Artemician
Jarom
Nrg
Upsidedown
Euphobant
Samanosuke
Epics
Tanker
Godfathermom
Aruzar
Marquiss
Garyko (Mandau)(Mars Ring)(Armadaberk)
Deadspeaker


Siren-NA

Sylph-1
Salsa (Mandau)

Titan-15
Map (Full Usukane)(Amamo)(Ninurta's Sash)(Stars Cap)
Merona (Aegis)
Zeroblade
Blackhatchy (Mandau)
Xerlic (Murduk)
Vilhem
Siveth
Ichtyos
Nicblue
Jiyo(Yoichi)
Bagel
Slimm
Uchiha
Valacar (Apocalypse)
Komoko

Unicorn-NA

Valefor-81
Delayed
Mizuno
Lilseph
Nattack
Nivek
Imsolil
Squeelch
Badbanana
Brunokurt
Chelsie
Drakkos
Egyptian
Eilistrae
Erembour
Gordie
Thanthos
Justen
Kieris
Leyn
Lonemeow
Madidu
Nimh-Uncomfirmed if three day ban.
Rialia
Rydiaa
Warpig
Theone
Aquazero
Coice
Defiant
Rhine
Pherbius (Mandau)
Sarahlynn
Soundwave
Fobolous
Tman
Maile
Aeriscloud
Merlynn
Proxim
Thanachai
Wix
Tokudaiji
Gow-Unconfirmed
Dirtyer-Unconfirmed
Amaya-Unconfirmed
Beowolf
Dimension
Cacklingbigfoot
Blkxtasy
Barberus
Lilteasz
Zlggomatic
Argonso
Makavelli (Mandau)
Sparhawk (Gungir)
Jamtart
Ainee
Vagus
Tahkisis
Chromis
Xigbar
Lauranathalas
Zellok
Hushichouheary
Daggoth
Phillyphool
Reddeyes
Parasiteeve
Peteypupalog
Qwake
Azimo
Kuronue
Jae
Livette
Underworld
Donatello
Zsig
Sammys
Wildarms
Freakout
Trickfast (Gjallarhorn((Mjnollir)(Aegis)(Mandau)

Statistics:

Total=476/950
Most contributing Server=Asura(113)
Total Known Relics Removed=91
2 Mythics Removed
Total LS Leaderless=12

(This is the 4th post in a series of PUP/SCH Apollyon Solo attempts/strategies. I will be referring a lot to the previous posts, so it might serve well to read through those, though I will do my best to explain without reposting everything from before)





( Click me to read more! )


Hope for some feedback, can't wait to hear from people on this. Any and all questions are welcome!

Please follow this simple flow chart:







Thank you





(hehe, props to Analisa for this. While I'd normally save my blog space for metagaming shit or big in game events, I thought this was worth posting)

Wedding! Pictures!

It was a long time coming.

in the cut are 2 big pictures outlining what happened. I wish I could say more, but I could never describe properly today.

( Read more... )




<3 Aiki


Signed,

Dantaro, married tarutaru

I suppose I should define "Great Success" as "I learned a lot about this and am optimistic I can succeed if I focus a bit of effort into the pieces of gear I clearly need."

ALSO: It should be noted that I posted this on KI as well.

The first post in this series can be found here:
http://dantpup.livejournal.com/10876.html

( PUP/SCH, what happened in run 2. )

Given all this, I'm still very hopeful to be able in the future to complete a full run, though I for sure need to get an enfeebling earring, Astute Cape, and Anrin Obi. With those three pieces of gear (and maybe an Omega Ring) I should be able to have a much more consistent sleep rate (Aka no more freak resists).

Any input on this would be very much appreciated, and I look forward to peoples reactions.

Going to break this into 3 sections. The first section is about my WHM, the second is about PUP, and lastly, COR.


( WHM: Love it, Hate it, Haste it. )



( PUP/SCH Apollyon SE attempt )



( COR Leveling )

Disclaimer: The following is a lot of talk about PUP.  More specifically, a lot of talk about a theoretical idea to allow PUP to solo difficult NMs that cannot be solo'd by sleep nuking or eva tanking.  For more information on the original plan, please visit this post: dantpup.livejournal.com/12232.html


Reason for revision:  Ok, so a brief overview of why this is needed.  I got a bit of time to play around with PUP/NIN awhile ago, stacking upwards of +41 evasion in gear ontop of my capped out 284 evasion skill (with gear), and trying out the kite/nuke method on a pot in sea.  All in all, with evasion traits included, +76 evasion ontop of 284 skill. The result?  The concept of solo kite nuking on PUP as I described is sound,  but the choice of subjob to achieve the effect of kite tank was flawed on serveral levels.

Firstly, despite the extremely high amount of stacked evasion gear, I found my evasion to be lacking at best.  Honestly, I was surprised at how poorly I evaded even campaign mobs (as I later attempted to solo using the same kite/nuke).  I suppose this just goes to show in ineffectiveness of attempting an evasion build on PUP for much more than lower level NMs.   Also, this is the final nail in the coffin for any hope for a certain PUP on KI to ever claim to have "Eva tank solo'd Zipnaca."  We simply can't get the needed evasion to dodge attacks from things 5-10 levels above our own with any sort of consistency.

Secondly, and more importantly,  was my own failure to realize exactly how quickly the enmity generated by a nuke would wear off when grabbed with Ventrilloquy.  PUP/NIN fails to provide and adequte way to maintain a high enough CE and VE to keep hate off of the automaton.  While Ventrilloquy is ideal for grabbing initial hate, it is unreliable when using it to maintain hate.   This was, of course, my biggest fear, and one I have addressed in this first revision.


Revision 1:

Part 1: Support Job: 

Clearly PUP/NIN is not nearly as effective a choice as I had hoped.  This left me stuggling to pick a subjob that could provide addaqute hate management without losing survivability.  Intially I gravitated towards the standard choice: RDM.   Between blink, stoneskin, phalanx, and cures, RDM is an excellent subjob when NIN is ruled out for survivability.  However, RDM fails a few key tests, making it unsuitable as a subjob for this task.

1) RDM sub provides a basic MP pool (With 4 MP merits) of about 215 MP.  After examining my most likely gear choices (disscussed in Part 3) I was only able to add an extra 56-60 MP to this total.  275MP by itself it not enough to hold hate /RDM, nor to last through an extended fight.

2) RDM sub requires to time intensive a hate building process.  To hold hate on RDM, you are required to spam spells as they come up (Dispel, Sleep, ect).  This comes natural to RDM main as they have access to 10% fast cast gear, a large MP pool, Refresh, and convert.  PUP/RDM has access to less spells, less fast cast, and no form of natural MP regeneration.  On top of that, it is too risky to stop and cast spells like dispel, blind, and poison multiple times while kiting.  Without shadows, I doubt I would survive a round with an NM, and even if I did I doubt I would still have hate.

3) Skills.  As wonderful as Phalanx and Stoneskin are, PUP. . . less than the natural skill of a RDM (ie We don't got nothing) and there isn't enough +Skill gear in the game to change that.  The lack of potent forms of this spell would spell disaster if this were attempted.


So barring RDM, I started looking at other possibilities.  DRK is a common NIN tanking sub for end game, but its small MP pool, aswell as falling into the same tanking style as RDM, make it a no go.  WAR gives me voke, which is awesome for this, and defender, more defence is never bad, but lacks in any real way to regain HP without items.

So I found myself looking for a job with high hate spells and JAs, cures, and some form of a respectable MP pool.

The obvious choice is PLD!  Now, PLD as a subjob:

1) Flash and Cure III.   While not as potent as Cure IV, with a proper cure cheat I could still generate some decent CE and VE using cure III.  Tag that on with the 180 CE and 1280 VE from Flash and suddenly I have a way to generate and maintain hate as PUP/PLD.

2) JAs.  Sentinel and Shield Bash both generate a fairly solid amount of hate.  And while both are on a 5 minute timer, they would only need to be used in "Oh shi-" situations (Presumably)

3) MP.  OK, so I lied, PLD Doesn't have the greatest MP pool.  I figure with gear I'll have around 235-250.  But it DOES get Auto-refresh, which adds a great deal of MP.  Stack a Ixion Cloak or V.Cloak ontop of that, and suddenly MP Becomes far more sustainable, even with a hail of flashes.

PLD also adds a few other positives,  increased HP, two defence bonus traits, resist sleep (lol).  Past that, a lot of the issue starts to become avoiding damage.  /PLD leaves a smaller margin for error as its harder to stop without shadows.  Mobs that cast (especially tier III+ nukes) may also cause issues, though depending on casting speed and frequency, it may not matter.


Part 2: Gear:

Clearly the same gear I described in the last post doesn't carry over.  I've already shown the pointlessness of an evasion build, so clearly there must be another choice.

The choice that I came up with is one of -Damage and +MP/Enmity.  I swapped out my boxer's for a cheviot (though umbra would be better), my wind staff for Earth staff, and one of the eva rings for jelly ring.  Thats a solid -30% physical damage taken, even if I do get +5% Magic damage from it.  In my neck/ring slot I swapped eva troque/ring for Harmonia and Mermaid, bringing my total +enmity to +8 (pre flash gear).  Earrings would ideally be 2x Hades +1, but right now I just have Antivenom and Insomnia.  Hands I have RSE2 Hands (+65 HP) and Prince's Slops (+30 HP && MP).  Body will be V.Cloak of Ixion Cloak, depending on if I can get another one from Finale (I can't sell it ever though, since I'll be getting it free lot).  Not sure on Waist yet, might just full time swift.

For flash, I'll have to swap to Turban and Swift Belt for sure.  not sure what body piece yet, might just swap in a place holder.  Also going to swap in my Hades Sainti for flash, for the +7 enmity.   That be +15 total enmity for flash with a recast of about 22.75 seconds.

I haven't worked out my cure cheat yet, but it shouldn't be too hard, what with errant and all.


Part 3: Strategy

The basic idea behind this are the same as before.  Steal hate from automaton while kiting.  Its just done differently now.  Depending on the mob you're fighting, you can either open with a tier IV nuke >> Vent >> Flash to secure a hate base, or you can open with flash >> sentinel.  Either way you'll give yourself a bit of enmity to work with.  The most important thing to do though is get up your CE, which is most easily done with Cures.

In terms of keeping hate,  Flashing every time the timer is up will be important, with a Cure III between every 2 flashes.  This is based approximently on numbers I picked at random.  Until I actually do some testing (or someone else does) I can't really say how many or how often, but I assume these numbers when figuring out the MP math.

The important thing to note here is that for the first couple nuke rounds hate will be shakey, but by the time you deactivate Quirk for the second time, the amount of hate you've built up should allow a lot of breathing (And nuking!) room.  Since hate would no longer be determined by the automaton, more consistent nukes should be able to happen.

The need for items is there too.  Yag drinks and ethers will most likely be needed.


Part 4: MP:

Assuming 235 MP with 2/tick Auto Refresh

2/tick = 2 per 3 seconds = 40 per minute = 2400 per hour

Flash = 25 MP every 45 seconds before haste.  In 75 seconds Auto refresh generates 50 MP.  In 90 you can flash twice.  Total MP gain is 10.

Flash = 25 MP every 40.95 seconds (9% haste) = In 75 seconds Auto refresh generates 50 MP.  In 82 seconds you can flash twice. Total MP gain is negligable, though still positive.

Cure III = 46 MP.  Ever 82 seconds flash is cast twice at 0 MP loss, followed by a Cure III.  Thus, every 82 seconds 46 MP extra is lost without being gained back.  At 235 MP, MP would be drain in 5 rounds, 410 seconds (6.83 minutes).

It takes 69 seconds to gain 46 MP, 352.5 seconds (5.87 minutes) to regain the entire MP pool.

What does all this mean?  Well, two things.

1) Rationing MP when low to maximize MP gained back.   Casting only 1 flash ever 82 seconds, staving off from cures, anything to help gain MP back.  Though it should be noted that a complete stop of hate generating is not a good idea.Post an Entry

2) Items are more or less a neccessity for this.  Pack many Yagudo drinks and some elixers/ethers.  Save the elixers/ethers for emergencies, but apply the yag drinks whenever MP is low.

Part 4: Conclusion:

I need to take PLD to 37.  Thats the obvious conclusion.  Most of this is all still theoretical in nature, but is worth looking into.  MP is, as with all PLDs, the major issue, so I need to spend a bit more time ironing out those details.

I plan on taking PLD to 37 as soon as I finish COR to 37, though if any other PUPs want to try this, feel free.  Questions and comments can be either placed on this LJ (OpenID is supported, but you need to long in at www.livejournal.com/openid/), or sent to me in game (If you're on alexander server).  A few of you also have my email.  Go ahead and send stuff there too.


Part 5: Disclaimer again:

Yeah, same thing as last time.  I'm not saying that I HAVE done this and that is a sure fire way.  Its just a theoritical idea that I think is worthy of further investigation.  Please don't post any nasty "zomg you suck" posts.  I'm always on the look out for critique, not criticism.  If you don't know the difference between the two, just read your post outloud and I'm sure you'll figure it out.






On an unrelated not,  shout out to Rpgphinatic for letting me spew the math at him late last night and for his suggestions/input.  Much appricated!