View source for Spider Rider (3.5e Prestige Class)

{{author
|author_name=Sam Kay
|date_created=10th August 2007
|adopter=
|date_adopted= 
|status=complete
|editing=
|balance=Fighter
|img=WolfSpider.jpg
}}
{{3.5e PrC Semantic
|description=Spider riders are warriors who ride monstrous spiders which are bonded to them mentally, physically, and spiritually
|len=10
|minlvl=7
}}


== Spider Rider ==

{{quote| ''&ldquo;Look! There is a spider rider leading the left flank&rdquo;'', Orethyl pointed as he thought to his spider.

''&ldquo;Yes&rdquo;'', thought his monstrous spider Aranai back to him, ''&ldquo;We should engage with caution.&rdquo;''

Aranai began to crawl forward - accelerating into a scuttle - breaking into a run faster than the mightiest warhorse. Catching his foe in the flank, Aranai speared the enemy spider on Orethyl&rsquo;s lance. The lance shattered as shards and splinters flew through the air, even as Orethyl leaped at his foe, drawing his blade to finish the job...

The war would be won, whatever the cost..|src=Orethyl, spider rider |orig=''The History of the War of the Spider Queens'' }}

Spiders are sacred. A bond with a spider is the ultimate gift - such is the teaching of the spider riders. Both Lolth and Arachne gift their greatest followers with ''spider-bonds''.  A follower is given a monstrous spider egg, and when it hatches, the new spider rider is bonded mentally, physically and spiritually to their spider. But the spider riders are divided: half of them worship Lolth, the other half Lolth&rsquo;s sister - [[Arachne (3.5e Deity)|Arachne]]. This results in a war, a war that will last until one side is destroyed utterly: the ''War of the Spider Queens''.

===Becoming a Spider Rider===

A character can only become a spider rider through her great devotion to spiders. A character ready to join the ranks of the spider riders is totally obsessed by spiders, studying and handling them constantly, bringing them up regularly in conversation. A character may seek to become a spider rider to become a master of mounted combat.

{| class="dragon monstats" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"
|+ style="font-size: larger; white-space: nowrap;" | Entry Requirements
|-
! Alignment:
| Any [[SRD:Alignment|chaotic]]. The character&rsquo;s [[SRD:Alignment|alignment]] must match her Spider Queen&rsquo;s (see below). The spider queens demand chaos, so only a chaotic individual is granted the honor of becoming a spider rider.
|-
! Base Attack Bonus:
| +6.
|-
! Base Saves:
| [[Saving Throw (SRD Rules)|Fortitude]] +5.
|-
! Skills: 
| [[SRD:Ride Skill|Ride]] 5 ranks, [[SRD:Knowledge Skill|Knowledge]] (nature or religion) 4 ranks. 
|-
! Feats:
| [[SRD:Mounted Combat|Mounted Combat]]
|-
! Race:
| If the character&rsquo;s spider queen (see below) is Lolth, then [[SRD:Elves, Dark&mdash;Drow (Race)|drow]]. If not, then there is no prerequisite.
|-
! Special:
| The character must worship one of the three spider queens (Lolth, [[Arachne (3.5e_Deity)|Arachne]], or [[Aranae (3.5e_Deity)|Aranae]]). The character must receive a [[Spider Egg, Monstrous (3.5e Equipment)|monstrous spider egg]] from her deity (usually presented by a deity&rsquo;s vassal).
|}

{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="zebra d20"
|+ <div>{{Anchor|Table: The Spider Rider}}</div>
Hit Die: d8
|-
! Level
! [[Base Attack Bonus (terminology)|Base<br/>Attack Bonus]]
! [[Saving Throw (SRD Rules)|Fort<br/>Save]]
! [[Saving Throw (SRD Rules)|Ref<br/>Save]]
! [[Saving Throw (SRD Rules)|Will<br/>Save]]
! Spider Jump
! Special
|- 
| 1st || +1 || +2 || +0 || +0 || &mdash; || class="left" | [[#Spider Mount|Spider Mount]], [[#Spider Empathy|Spider Empathy]], [[#Planar Web|Planar Web]] 4/day
|- 
| 2nd || +2 || +3 || +0 || +0 ||10 ft. (10 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Summon Spider Swarm|''Summon Spider Swarm'']] 3/day, [[#Spider Jump|Spider Jump]]
|- 
| 3rd || +3 || +3 || +1 || +1 ||10 ft. (20 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Rebuke Spiderkind|Rebuke Spiderkind]]
|- 
| 4th || +4 || +4 || +1 || +1 ||20 ft. (40 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Perfect Rider|Perfect Rider]] +2
|- 
| 5th || +5 || +4 || +1 || +1 ||20 ft. (60 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Summon Spider IV|''Summon Spider IV'']] 1/day
|- 
| 6th || +6 || +5 || +2 || +2 ||40 ft. (100 ft.)|| class="left" |  [[#Perfect Rider|Perfect Rider]] +4, [[#Master Rider|Master Rider]]
|- 
| 7th || +7 || +5 || +2 || +2 ||40 ft. (140 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Summon Spider V|''Summon Spider V'']] 1/day
|- 
| 8th || +8 || +6 || +2 || +2 ||80 ft. (220 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Spider Knight|Spider Knight]]
|- 
| 9th || +9 || +6 || +3 || +3 ||80 ft. (300 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Summon Spider VI|''Summon Spider VI'']] 1/day
|- 
| 10th || +10 || +7 || +3 || +3 ||120 ft. (500 ft.)|| class="left" | [[#Spider Calling|''Spider Calling'']] 2/day
|- class="noalt"
| colspan="8" class="skill" |'''Class Skills (4 + [[Int]] modifier per level)'''<br/>[[SRD:Climb Skill|Climb]] [[SRD:Strength|(Str)]], [[SRD:Craft Skill|Craft]] [[SRD:Intelligence|(Int)]], [[SRD:Handle Animal Skill|Handle Animal]] [[SRD:Charisma|(Cha)]], [[SRD:Intimidate Skill|Intimidate]] [[SRD:Charisma|(Cha)]], [[SRD:Jump Skill|Jump]] [[SRD:Strength|(Str)]], [[SRD:Ride Skill|Ride]] [[SRD:Dexterity|(Dex)]], [[SRD:Use Rope Skill|Use Rope]] [[SRD:Dexterity|(Dex)]], [[SRD:Balance Skill|Balance]] [[SRD:Dexterity|(Dex)]], [[SRD:Tumble Skill|Tumble]] [[SRD:Dexterity|(Dex)]], and [[SRD:Knowledge Skill|Knowledge]] (nature and religion) [[SRD:Intelligence|(Int)]].
|}

{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="zebra d20"
|+ {{Anchor|Table: The Epic Spider Rider}}
|-
! Level || [[#Spider Jump|Spider Jump]] || class="left" | Special
|- 
| 11th || 120 ft. (500 ft) || class="left" | [[#Bonus Feat|Bonus Feat]]
|- 
| 12th || 120 ft. (560 ft) || class="left" | 
|- 
| 13th || 120 ft. (560 ft.) || class="left" | 
|- 
| 14th || 120 ft. (620 ft.) || class="left" | [[#Bonus Feat|Bonus Feat]]
|- 
| 15th || 120 ft. (620 ft.) || class="left" | 
|- 
| 16th || 120 ft. (680 ft.) || class="left" | 
|- 
| 17th || 120 ft. (680 ft.) || class="left" | [[#Bonus Feat|Bonus Feat]]
|- 
| 18th || 120 ft. (740 ft.) || class="left" | 
|- 
| 19th || 120 ft. (740 ft.) || class="left" | 
|- 
| 20th || 120 ft. (800 ft.) || class="left" | [[#Bonus Feat|Bonus Feat]]
|}

====Class Features====

''All the following are class features of the spider rider.''

'''{{Anchor|Spider Mount}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Supernatural|Su]]):'''  When the spider rider gains her first level in the spider rider prestige class, her [[Spider Egg, Monstrous (3.5e Equipment)|monstrous spider egg]] hatches. The spider is immune to [[SRD:Fear Effect|fear effects]] and can speak, understand, and read any languages that the spider rider can. The spider is no longer mindless, but is [[SRD:Ride Skill|ridden]] as a creature of [[SRD:Intelligence|Intelligence]] 1 (see below).

'''{{Anchor|Spider Empathy}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):''' At 1st level the spider rider can speak mentally to any spiderkind<ref name="first">Any creature that resembles a spider.</ref> creature within 30ft. The spiderkind<ref name="first">Any creature that resembles a spider.</ref> creature will understand whatever the spider rider says to it. The spider rider can pinpoint the exact location of any spiderkind<ref name="first">Any creature that resembles a spider.</ref> creatures within 30ft, even if she can&rsquo;t see them. She can use the [[SRD:Handle Animal Skill|Handle Animal]] skill with spiders (and [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spiders]]). For the purposes of qualifying for prestige classes and feat prerequisites she is treated as having the Vermin Trainer<sup>[[Drow of the Underdark|DrU]]</sup> feat.

'''{{Anchor|Planar Web}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):'''  At 1st level, the spider rider can use ''[[SRD:Web|web]]'' as a [[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|spell-like ability]] four times a day (with a [[SRD:Casting Spells#Caster Level|caster level]] equal to the character&rsquo;s spider rider class level). The web materializes out of thin air at the point where the spell-like ability was aimed at.

'''{{Anchor|[[Summon Spider Swarm (3.5e Spell)|''Summon Spider Swarm'']]}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):''' At 2nd level the spider rider can use [[Summon Spider Swarm (3.5e Spell)|''summon spider swarm'']] as a [[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|spell-like ability]] three times a day (with a caster level equal to the character&rsquo;s spider rider class level).

'''{{Anchor|Spider Jump}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):''' At 2nd level as a [[swift action]], the spider rider gains the ability to travel between two points as if by means of a ''[[SRD:Dimension Door|dimension door]]'' spell (except that you can take action after using this ability). She can travel up to the number of feet shown in the &ldquo;Spider Jump&rdquo; column of [[#Table: The Spider Rider|Table: The Spider Rider]] and a maximum total number per day equal to the value in parenthesis. The spider rider may include her [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount in a spider jump. When this ability is performed it appears just like when a [[w:Jumping spider|jumping spider]] &ldquo;jumps.&rdquo; 

'''{{Anchor|[[Summon Spider IV (3.5e Spell)|''Summon Spider IV'']]}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):''' At 5th level the spider rider can use [[Summon Spider IV (3.5e Spell)|''summon spider IV'']] as a [[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|spell-like ability]] once per day (with a caster level equal to the character&rsquo;s spider rider class level).

'''{{Anchor|Rebuke Spiderkind}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Supernatural|Su]]):''' At 3rd level the spider rider may [[SRD:Turn or Rebuke Undead|rebuke]] spiderkind<ref name="first">Any creature that resembles a spider.</ref> creatures as a [[SRD:Cleric|cleric]] would rebuke undead. She rebukes spiderkind as a [[SRD:Cleric|cleric]] of three levels lower would. The character&rsquo;s [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount is unaffected by her rebuke attempts, and receives a +4 bonus against other spider rider rebuke attempts.

'''{{Anchor|Perfect Rider}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):''' At 4th level, the spider rider gains a +2 competence bonus to [[SRD:Ride Skill|Ride]] checks when riding a [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]]. This increases to a +4 competence bonus at 6th level.

'''{{Anchor|Master Rider}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):''' At 6th level, the spider rider does not suffer penalties to  [[SRD:Armor Class|AC]] due to charging while mounted on a monstrous spider, and only takes half of the normal penalty to [[SRD:Standard Actions#Ranged Attacks|ranged attacks]] due to being mounted.

'''{{Anchor|[[Summon Spider V (3.5e Spell)|''Summon Spider V'']]}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):''' At 7th level the spider rider can use [[Summon Spider V (3.5e Spell)|''summon spider V'']] as a spell-like ability once per day (with a caster level equal to the character&rsquo;s spider rider class level).

'''{{Anchor|Spider Knight}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):''' While riding a [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]], the spider rider gains a +2 competence bonus to [[SRD:Attack Roll|attack rolls]] and [[SRD:Armor Class|AC]].

'''{{Anchor|[[Summon Spider VI (3.5e Spell)|''Summon Spider VI'']]}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):''' At 9th level the spider rider can use [[Summon Spider VI (3.5e Spell)|''summon spider VI'']] as a spell-like ability once per day (with a caster level equal to the character&rsquo;s spider rider class level).

'''{{Anchor|[[Spider Calling (3.5e Spell)|''Spider Calling'']]}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|Sp]]):''' At 10th level the spider rider can use [[Spider Calling (3.5e Spell)|''spider calling'']] as a spell-like ability once per day (with the caster level equal to the character&rsquo;s spider rider class level).

'''{{Anchor|Spider Mount}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):'''  At 11th level and every second level thereafter, the spider rider&rsquo;s [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount gains 2d10 [[SRD:Hit Dice (Creature Statistic)|Hit Dice.]]

'''{{Anchor|Bonus Feat}}:''' At 11th level and every 3rd level thereafter, the epic spider rider gains a bonus feat chosen from the following list: [[SRD:Armor Skin|Armor Skin]], [[SRD:Combat Archery|Combat Archery]], [[SRD:Damage Reduction (Feat)|Damage Reduction]], [[SRD:Devastating Critical|Devastating Critical]], [[SRD:Dire Charge|Dire Charge]], [[SRD:Distant Shot|Distant Shot]], [[SRD:Energy Resistance|Energy Resistance]], [[SRD:Epic Endurance|Epic Endurance]], [[SRD:Epic Leadership|Epic Leadership]], [[SRD:Epic Prowess|Epic Prowess]], [[SRD:Epic Toughness|Epic Toughness]], [[SRD:Epic Weapon Focus|Epic Weapon Focus]], [[SRD:Epic Weapon Specialization|Epic Weapon Specialization]], [[SRD:Exceptional Deflection|Exceptional Deflection]], [[SRD:Improved Combat Reflexes|Improved Combat Reflexes]], [[SRD:Improved Manyshot|Improved Manyshot]], [[SRD:Improved Stunning Fist|Improved Stunning Fist]], [[SRD:Improved Whirlwind Attack|Improved Whirlwind Attack]], [[SRD:Infinite Deflection|Infinite Deflection]], [[SRD:Instant Reload|Instant Reload]], [[SRD:Legendary Commander|Legendary Commander]], [[SRD:Legendary Rider|Legendary Rider]], [[SRD:Legendary Wrestler|Legendary Wrestler]], [[SRD:Overwhelming Critical|Overwhelming Critical]], [[SRD:Penetrate Damage Reduction|Penetrate Damage Reduction]], [[SRD:Perfect Two-Weapon Fighting|Perfect Two-Weapon Fighting]], [[SRD:Reflect Arrows|Reflect Arrows]], [[SRD:Spellcasting Harrier|Spellcasting Harrier]], [[SRD:Storm of Throws|Storm of Throws]], [[SRD:Superior Initiative|Superior Initiative]], [[SRD:Swarm of Arrows|Swarm of Arrows]], [[SRD:Two-Weapon Rend|Two-Weapon Rend]], [[SRD:Uncanny Accuracy|Uncanny Accuracy]]. In addition to the feats on this list, the epic spider rider may treat any feat designated as a [[:Category:Fighter Bonus Feat|fighter bonus feat]] as being on the spider rider bonus feat list.  A spider rider must still meet all prerequisites for a bonus feat, including ability score and base attack bonus minimums.

====Monstrous Spider Mount====

''[[SRD:Monstrous Spider|Monstrous spider]] mounts have the following game statistics.''

{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="zebra d20"
|+ <div>{{Anchor|Table: The Monstrous Spider Mount}}</div>
Hit Die: d10
|-
! Rider&rsquo;s Level !! Size !! HD !! Natural Armor !! align="left" | Special
|- 
| 1st || T/S || 2 || +0 || class="left" | [[#Monstrous Spider Traits|Monstrous Spider Traits]], [[#Unbreakable Spider Bond|Unbreakable Spider Bond]]
|- 
| 2nd || M || 4 || +0 || class="left" | [[#Evasion|Evasion]], [[#Share Spells|Share Spells]]
|- 
| 3rd || L || 6 || +1 || class="left" | [[#Uncanny Dodge|Uncanny Dodge]], ''[[#Shrink|Shrink]]'' 3/day
|- 
| 4th || H || 8 || +1 || class="left" | [[#Fast Movement|Fast Movement]] +10ft 
|- 
| 5th || H || 8 || +2 || class="left" | [[#Spider Bonus Feat|Spider Bonus Feat]]
|- 
| 6th || H || 10 || +2 || class="left" | [[#Fast Movement|Fast Movement]] +20ft
|- 
| 7th || H || 10 || +3 || class="left" | [[#Slippery Mind|Slippery Mind]]
|- 
| 8th || H || 12 || +3 || class="left" | [[#Fast Movement|Fast Movement]] +30ft
|- 
| 9th || H || 12 || +4 || class="left" | [[#Spider Bonus Feat|Spider Bonus Feat]]
|- 
| 10th || H || 14 || +4 || class="left" | [[#Improved Evasion|Improved Evasion]]
|- class="noalt"
| colspan="7" class="skill" |
'''Class Skills (2 + [[SRD:Intelligence|Int]] modifier per hit die)'''<br/> [[SRD:Climb Skill|Climb]] ([[SRD:Strength|Str]]), [[SRD:Spot Skill|Spot]] ([[SRD:Wisdom|Wis]]), [[SRD:Hide Skill|Hide]] ([[SRD:Dexterity|Dex]]), [[SRD:Move Silently Skill|Move Silently]] ([[SRD:Dexterity|Dex]]), [[SRD:Jump Skill|Jump]] ([[SRD:Dexterity|Dex]]) and [[SRD:Use Rope Skill|Use Rope]] ([[SRD:Dexterity|Dex]]).
|}

=====Class Features=====

''All the following are class features of the spider mount.''

'''{{Anchor|Monstrous Spider Traits}}:''' The monstrous spider mount must either be a web spinning or a hunting spider, but with the Dungeon Master&rsquo;s permission, it may be a [[Spider, Monstrous Specific (3.5e Template)|specific monstrous spider]]. Use the base statistics for a [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] of the mount’s kind, but make the following changes.

''[[SRD:Hit Dice (Creature Statistic)|Hit Dice]]:'' The number of d10 Hit Dice that the monstrous spider mount has (this replaces its normal Hit Dice). A [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount has a good [[BAB|base attack bonus]] and good [[Fort#Fortitude|Fortitude]] and [[Ref#Reflex|Reflex]] saves. Treat the monsterous spider mount as a character with class levels equal to the spider’s HD. A monstrous spider mount gains additional skill points and feats for bonus HD as normal for advancing a monster’s [[SRD:Hit Dice (Creature Statistic)|Hit Dice]]. The monstrous spider mount has ''2+ [[SRD:Intelligence|Intelligence]] modifier'' skill points per Hit Die, but must train for one hour a day with the spider rider in order to gain these skill points.

''[[SRD:Natural Armor|Natural Armor]]:''  The number noted here is an improvement to the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]]’s existing [[SRD:Natural Armor|natural armor]] bonus.

''[[SRD:Attack (Creature Statistic)|Attacks]]:'' The monstrous spider mount can make multiple attacks with her bite attack as if it where a manufactured weapon, with a -5 penalty to each extra [[SRD:Attack (Creature Statistic)|attack]]. The spider cannot use its [[SRD:Poison|poison]] ability while making multiple attacks.

''Size:''  Upon hatching, the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount is [[SRD:Movement, Position, and Distance#Big and Little Creatures in Combat|Tiny]] size. 1d4 hours later, she sheds her skin and becomes [[SRD:Movement, Position, and Distance#Big and Little Creatures in Combat|Small]] size. When a new level in spider rider is gained by a spider&rsquo;s rider, she sheds her skin and grows one category in [[SRD:Movement, Position, and Distance#Big and Little Creatures in Combat|size]] up to a maximum size of [[SRD:Movement, Position, and Distance#Big and Little Creatures in Combat|Huge]] at 4th level.

''Type:''  The [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount&rsquo;s type changes from [[SRD:Vermin Type|vermin]] to [[SRD:Magical Beast Type|magical beast]] ([[SRD:Augmented Subtype|augmented]] [[SRD:Vermin Type|vermin]]). 

''Ability Scores:''  The [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount&rsquo;s [[SRD:Ability Scores|ability scores]] are chosen using the [[elite array]], replacing the 10 and the 8 with the rider&rsquo;s Intelligence and Charisma scores, which the monstrous spider mount shares. The racial ability score adjustments, [[SRD:Armor Class|Armor Class]] and [[SRD:Attack (Creature Statistic)|attack]] modifiers and bite damage due to size for the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount are shown on [[#Table: Monstrous Spider Adjustments by Size|Table: Monstrous Spider Adjustments by Size]]. For details on monstrous spiders see Monstrous Spider: [[SRD:Tiny Monstrous Spider|Tiny]], [[SRD:Small Monstrous Spider|Small]], [[SRD:Medium Monstrous Spider|Medium]], [[SRD:Large Monstrous Spider|Large]] and [[SRD:Huge Monstrous Spider|Huge]].

''Optionally a DM may allow their player to roll 4 sets of 4d6 discarding the lowest die and arrange the results among the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount&rsquo;s [[SRD:Strength|Strength]], [[SRD:Dexterity|Dexterity]], [[SRD:Constitution|Constitution]], and [[SRD:Wisdom|Wisdom]] scores.''

{| class="zebra d20"      
|+ {{Anchor|Table: Monstrous Spider Adjustments by Size}}
|-
! Size !! [[SRD:Strength|Str]] !! [[SRD:Dexterity|Dex]] !! [[SRD:Constitution|Con]] !! AC/Attack !! Bite Damage
|- 
| Tiny || -8 || +6 || +0 || +2 || 1d3
|- 
| Small || -4 || +6 || +0 || +1 || 1d4
|- 
| Medium || +0 || +6 || +2 || +0 || 1d6
|- 
| Large || +4 || +6 || +2 || -1 || 1d8
|- 
| Huge || +8 || +6 || +2 || -2 || 2d6
|}

'''{{Anchor|Unbreakable Spider Bond}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Supernatural|Su]]):''' The monstrous spider mount shares a bond with her rider that transcends the physical.  The mount assumes the rider&rsquo;s alignment.  If a spider rider dies, the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount [[SRD:Dead|dies]] instantly as well. If the monstrous spider mount dies the rider must attempt a [[SRD:Saving Throw#Fortitude|Fortitude saving throw]] of DC 25. If the saving throw is failed, the spider rider loses 2 hit points per spider rider level. She will then go into a [[SRD:Barbarian#Rage|rage]] for 1d12 + (her Constitution modifier) rounds as if she was a 1st level [[SRD:Barbarian|barbarian]].

At all times, the monstrous spider mount and rider can communicate empathetically and telepathically, see out of each others eyes, and can locate each other as if by the [[SRD:Locate Creature|''locate creature'']] spell.

The spider rider automatically passes [[SRD:Ride Skill|Ride]] checks to attack while mounted and to control her mount in battle when mounted on her spider, and has full control over her spider&rsquo;s speed at all times. The spider rider and her spider share the same [[SRD:Initiative|initiative]], which is rolled using their highest initiative bonus (The rider&rsquo;s or the spider&rsquo;s).

'''''{{Anchor|Shrink}}'' ([[SRD:Sp|Sp]]):''' 3 times per day at 3rd level, the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount can reduce its size to any [[SRD:Movement, Position, and Distance#Big and Little Creatures in Combat|size]] category smaller than itself as a [[swift action]]. This [[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|spell-like ability]] lasts until the spider decides to end it, which it can do as a [[free action]].  The caster level is 1 for this ability.  This ability works like a stackable ''[[SRD:Reduce Person|reduce person]]''.

'''{{Anchor|Fast Movement}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):'''  At 4th level, the monstrous spider mount&rsquo;s land and climb [[SRD:Movement Speed|speeds]] increase by +10ft. At 6th level, the bonus to the monstrous spider mount&rsquo;s speed increases by an additional +10ft and increases again at 8th level by another +10ft.

'''{{Anchor|Spider Bonus Feat}}:'''  The monstrous spider mount may select a bonus feat from the following list: [[Improved Critical|Improved Critical]] (bite), [[Ability Focus]], [[Acrobatic]], [[Combat Reflexes]], [[Dodge]], [[Improved Initiative]], [[Improved Natural Attack|Improved Natural Attack]] (bite), [[Lightning Reflexes]], [[Power Attack]], [[Improved Bull Rush]], [[Improved Overrun]], [[Stealthy]] and [[Weapon Focus|Weapon Focus]] (bite).

'''{{Anchor|Evasion}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):'''  If the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount makes a successful [[Ref#Reflex|Reflex]] saving throw against an attack that normally deals half damage on a successful [[SRD:Saving Throw|save]], she instead takes no damage. [[SRD:Evasion and Improved Evasion|Evasion]] can be used only if the monstrous spider mount is wearing light [[SRD:Armor|armor]] or no armor. A helpless monstrous spider mount does not gain the benefit of ''Evasion''.

'''{{Anchor|Share Spells}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):''' At the spider rider’s option, she may have any spell (but not any [[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Spell-Like|spell-like ability]]) she casts upon herself also affect her [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount. The monstrous spider mount must be within 5 feet of her at the time of casting to receive the benefit. If the spell or effect has a duration other than instantaneous, it stops affecting the monstrous spider mount if she moves farther than 5 feet away and will not affect the spider again, even if it returns to the spider rider before the duration expires. 
Additionally, the spider rider may cast a spell with a target of “You” on her monstrous spider mount (as a touch range spell) instead of on herself. A spider rider and her spider can share spells even if the spells normally do not affect creatures of the companion’s type [<nowiki/>[[SRD:Magical Beast Type|magical beast]] ([[SRD:Augmented Subtype|augmented]] [[SRD:Vermin Type|vermin]])]. 

'''{{Anchor|Uncanny Dodge}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):'''  The monstrous spider mount retains her Dexterity bonus to AC (if any) even if she is caught [[SRD:Flat-Footed|flat-footed]] or struck by an [[SRD:Invisibility|invisible]] attacker. However, she still loses her [[SRD:Dexterity|Dexterity]] bonus to [[SRD:Armor Class|AC]] if immobilized.

'''{{Anchor|Slippery Mind}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):'''  If a [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount with slippery mind is affected by an [[SRD:Enchantment School|enchantment]] spell or effect and fails her [[SRD:Saving Throw|saving throw]], she can attempt it again 1 round later at the same DC. She gets only this one extra chance to succeed on her saving throw.

'''{{Anchor|Improved Evasion}} ([[SRD:Special Abilities Overview#Extraordinary|Ex]]):'''  This ability works like [[#Evasion|Evasion]], except that while the monstrous spider mount still takes no damage on a successful [[Ref#Reflex|Reflex]] saving throw against [[SRD:Standard Actions|attacks]] she henceforth takes only half damage on a failed [[SRD:Saving Throw|saving throw]]. A helpless monstrous spider mount does not gain the benefit of [[SRD:Evasion and Improved Evasion|Improved Evasion]].

====Ex-Spider Riders====

The spider rider can make a decision to which the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount objects. Switching from Lolth to another deity, offending the monstrous spider mount, ceasing to revere spiderkind, taking the spider for granted, or otherwise upsetting the spider can cause the spider to leave the rider. The spider rider loses all its supernatural and spell-like abilities gained from being a spider rider. The Rider can make amends only by contacting the monstrous spider mount to apologize. If the spider accepts the apology, the monstrous spider mount will come back to the rider and the rider will regain all spider rider class features.

If the spider rider&rsquo;s monstrous spider mount dies, the rider can never have another [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount to replace her deceased spider. However, the spider rider can spend one hour in a ritual to bring back the monstrous spider mount to life. The monstrous spider cannot be brought back to life in any other way (including methods that make the spider undead). The monstrous spider mount will then return to life in her original body. If the deity that the rider worships believes the rider to be unworthy, then the [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] mount will not return to life. If the deity changes her mind about the rider&rsquo;s worth at a later date, the ritual can be undertaken again. The monstrous spider mount&rsquo;s body cannot be damaged, disfigured or destroyed unless the spider rider is also dead (and will be repaired instantly if the spider rider returns to life), and can be called to the spider rider when she wishes to perform the ritual.

===Campaign Information===

====Playing a Spider Rider====

'''Adventure:'''  Spider riders usually adventure to gain power to use in the ''War of the Spider Queens''. They also adventure in order to fulfill a task appointed to them by their patron (either Lolth or [[Arachne (3.5e_Deity)|Arachne]]), or to find new candidates to train in the art of the spider riders. Neutral spider riders are rather obscure in their purposes. Their objectives are not known.

'''Characteristics:''' Spider riders are totally obsessed with spiders - their minds, bodies and souls are tied to the arachnids.

Spider riders rarely stop thinking about spiders in some way (even if it is just a corner of the mind considering some spider theory), and they often weave spider-knowledge into conversations simply because they can&rsquo;t help it! They simply love spiders with their hearts, minds and souls, and can&rsquo;t imagine others not doing the same to some degree. A spider rider&rsquo;s way idea of impressing someone is showing off their knowledge of spiders. Because of this spider obession most spider rider marriages are to another spider rider or a [[SRD:Elves, Dark&mdash;Drow (Race)|drow]].

The spider rider and her [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] are as one: they are mentally bonded and share their thoughts. The rider and the spider each have their own personality, opinions, and desires. However, both rider and spider are privy to the thoughts, opinions, and desires of the other.

'''Races:''' [[SRD:Elves, Dark&mdash;Drow (Race)|Drow]] are very often spider riders - their psyche is naturally predisposed to spider obsession. [[SRD:Humans (Race)|Humans]] are rarely spider riders as most are too squeamish, scared, or untrusting to even approach a [[SRD:Monstrous Spider|monstrous spider]] (let alone ride one). [[SRD:Dwarves, Hill (Race)|dwarves]], [[SRD:Gnomes, Rock (Race)|gnomes]], [[SRD:Orcs (Race)|orcs]] (and [[SRD:Half-Orcs (Race)|half-orcs]]), and [[SRD:Halflings, Lightfoot (Race)|halflings]] are almost never spider riders, due to their hatred of the dark-skinned elves (holding grudges even against [[Arachne (3.5e Deity)|Arachne&rsquo;s]] [[SRD:Elves, Dark&mdash;Drow (Race)|drow]]).

'''Combat:''' The spider rider takes the party role of a fighter and fast-attacker. Their skill in arms and their spider mounts make them ideal front-line fighters. The spider&rsquo;s speed makes them excellent at fast attacking and getting where they are needed. The spider rider truly comes into her own at 3rd level when the spider is finally large enough to mount.

'''Advancement:''' A spider rider should probably consider taking levels in [[SRD:Fighter|fighter]] to gain specialized mounted combat bonus feats.

'''Resources:''' Spider riders may be given various magic or helpful items to help them on their quests by the other spider riders loyal to their patron deity.

====Spider Riders in the World====

{{quote|Lolth is a liar. Arachne is the true Spider Queen!|orig=Orethyl, spider rider |src=a secret log-book stolen from a temple of Lolth}}

'''NPC Reactions:''' NPCs tend to jump to conclusions when it comes to spider riders, especially [[SRD:Humans (Race)|humans]] and [[SRD:Elves, High (Race)|elves]]: they tend to assume that they are servants of Lolth, and are reluctant to change this first judgment. While [[SRD:Elves, Dark&mdash;Drow (Race)|drow]] treat spider rider&rsquo;s with great respect, others treat them like dirt.

====Spider Rider Lore====

Characters with ranks in [[SRD:Knowledge Skill|Knowledge]] (religion) can research spider riders to learn more about them.  When a character makes a skill check, read or paraphrase the following, including information from lower DCs.

{| class="zebra d20"
|+ [[SRD:Knowledge Skill|Knowledge]] (Religion)
! DC || class="left" | Result
|- 
| 11 || class="left" | Spider riders are drow who ride spiders to further Lolth&rsquo;s causes.
|- 
| 16 || class="left" | Spider riders are mentally bonded to their spiders.
|- 
| 21 || class="left" | There is another Spider Queen who is attempting to use her spider riders to unseat Lolth.
|- 
| 26 || class="left" | The spider rider&rsquo;s spider is actually so closely bonded that she is another aspect of the spider rider&rsquo;s personality.
|}

====Spider Riders in the Game====

'''Adaptation:''' As in Eberron, spiders are considered lesser to scorpions by [[SRD:Elves, Dark&mdash;Drow (Race)|drow]], the spider could be replaced with a scorpion.

{{:Lamaë’an (3.5e NPC)}}

=== References ===
<references/>


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[[Category:3.5e]]
[[Category:User]]
[[Category:Class]]
[[Category:Prestige Class]]

{{Navboxes}}
Article Balance	Moderate +
Author	Sam Kay +
Challenge Rating	11 + and {{{cr}}} +
Identifier	3.5e Prestige Class +
Length	10 +
Minimum Level	7 +
Name	Lamaë’an + and Araënû, Spider Mount +
Race	drow + and monstrous hunting spider +
Rating	Undiscussed +
Size	Medium + and Huge +
Summary	Spider riders are warriors who ride monstrous spiders which are bonded to them mentally, physically, and spiritually + and Spider rider servant of Lolth +
Title	Spider Rider +
Type	humanoid (elf) + and magical beast (augmented vermin) +