Curse

Maxiemonster · Dec 04, 2006, 09:25 PM // 21:25

Introduction:
This build is extemly powerful, and can be used in every area that is not extremly interupting heavy. It cannot be targeted by spells, and you will rarely be hurt by melee damage (using Esigns calculator I came to the conclusion that you can take over 160 base damage and still take 0 damage, and there isn't much that deals 160 base damage). Of course, holding aggro isn't the easiest thing anymore, so that'd be your biggest problem most of the time (unless you're solo'ing, of course). I have only tested this in Random Arenas, as I don't have a PvE Elementalist. If you succesfully use this build anywhere, I'd love to hear it!

Attributes:
Earth Magic: 16 (12+1+3)
Energy Storage: 10 (9+1)
Wilderness Survival: 9

1. Obsidian Flesh [Elite]
2. Serpent's Quickness
3. Glyph of Concentration
4. Armor of Earth
5. Stoneflesh Aura
6. Earth Attunement
7. Optional*
8. Optional*

* These spots can be filled up with alot of things. This might sound strange now, but you'll get this later. There's room for a Ressurection Signet, Sliver Armor (can be used for solo'ing) Aura of Restoration, a ward (Ward of Stability, Ward Against Melee) or even a spirit, depending on what area you're in.

The Guide:
The Basics:
Keeping Obsidian Flesh up forever seems to be confusing to alot I've asked to try this build with me. It can be kept up by casting Serpent's Quickness, followed quickly by Obsidian Flesh. Just before Serpent's Quickness ends (not earlier), cast another Obsidian Flesh, this is the cycle you'll repeat every time.
Besides that, you should keep Earth Attunement, Stoneflesh Aura and Aura of Earth up at all times. Use Glyph of Concentration before casting Obsidian Flesh (time this well, don't let this affect your cycle) when you're Dazed or facing interupting foes.

Counters
So, what CAN hurt this build? Of course, all non-spell skills can still affect you. Wells, skills, attacks, preperations, stance etc. Interuption is something that can't be easily countered. You can use the Glyph of Concentration before using Obsidian Flesh, but even this might fail. Interuption-heavy areas are probably not doable. Conditions are a thing you still suffer from, Dazed can be countered with Glyph of Concentration to some level, the other conditions shouldn't be a problem, even if Aura of Restoration is your only heal. Spirits still effect you, for example, Quickening Zephyr can still get your into energy problems.

Yanman.be · Dec 04, 2006, 09:35 PM // 21:35

And I'd pack Stonetriker, together with Storm chaser, for extra energy, during the downtimes of serpents quickness. Also, you can boost your wilderness survival then.

Add sliver armour, and stone daggers maybe ( you can take stuff out ) and you got the FoW farming build pretty much.

LoyalSoldier · Dec 05, 2006, 05:41 AM // 05:41

Not to be rude, but this is Old News. Sorry everyone has posted about these builds.

Dr Strangelove · Dec 05, 2006, 03:43 PM // 15:43

Important to note that QZ works much better than SQ if you have the chance, say, in a two man system.

Kinetic Armor is vastly better than armor of earth if you plan to be casting with any kind of regularity.

Sliver armor is pretty much mandatory on earth farmer builds. It just kicks too much arse to be left behind.

Like Yanman said, you'd probably need stone striker + storm chaser to help your energy out.

SFlames · Dec 09, 2006, 06:10 PM // 18:10

I like the idea how you're keeping up Obsidian Flesh with Serpent's Quickness. However, you need a skill like Ward Against Melee or Silver Armor to prevent knockdowns or chained combos from warriors/assassins. A self healing skill would be nice too. I'm not too sure how much melee characters damage you for after you have those two armor spells up, but bleeding/poison/disease and other degen. conditions can really put an end to your tanking power.

Ensign · Dec 09, 2006, 09:20 PM // 21:20

I'm a big fan of going /Dervish for Mystic Regeneration and Fleeting Stability. Need the external recharge buffing if you need 100% coverage on Obs Flesh though.

Peace,
-CxE

Francis Crawford · Dec 10, 2006, 01:18 AM // 01:18

Where would would want to take Obsidian Flesh without going Permanent Obsidian Flesh (i.e., Serpent's Quickness)?