Multiclassed Monk Question

[Nosaj]

HI, I am about to start ID II for the first time (have played all the other Black Isle games), but I am confused as far as the 3E rules are concerned with multiclassing. Before everyone gets mad and tells me to read Kayless' post I will say that I did, but I am still confused on one point.

I would like to make a multiclass Monk/cleric. In the class descriptions it says:

Monk of the Broken Ones
Members of the Order of the Broken Ones venerate Ilmater, god of suffereing. They strive to endure the pain of their training as well as the pain of others.
Special Order Ability: Can multiclass to Painbearer of Ilmater (cleric) without losing the ability to advance in the monk class.

Does this mean that I can multiclass to Painbearer right away, and still advance in monk as normal (something like a BG dual-class)? If not, what does that mean? Thanks to everyone for their help.

[lightningpig]

MCing in 3ed is more intuitive than the previous format - largely due to the fact that now experience levels (or ECL - effective character level) are homogenous for all characters. Whenever you advance in your ECL, you can choose to MC to any class provided you meet the requirements.

For example, if you started your character out as a Monk, once he reaches level 2 of his ECL he can choose to take another level of Monk making him a Monk02 or he could choose to MC (or any other class whose requirements you have met) to Painbearer making him M01/PoI01. The following level (ECL3), you can add to either class (M01/PoI02), or if you are feeling crazy (do NOT do this) - add another class (M01/PoI01/PoH01). Just keep in mind that if two non-favored classes are more than 1 level apart you get an exp penalty. (note: the favored class is indicated on the race selection menu - for humans/half-elves it is whatever is highest).

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But now to your question:
'Special Order Ability: Can multiclass to Painbearer of Ilmater (cleric) without losing the ability to advance in the monk class.'

"...what does that mean? "

Exactly what it says - if you MC a Monk of the Broken Ones to a class other than Painbearer of Ilmater, you will lose the option to add additional monk levels.

For example, if you have a M01/PoI01, upon ECL 3, you can either make him/her into a M01/PoI02 or a M02/PoI01. In contrast if you had a M01/F01 - you could ONLY advance him/her as a Fighter (M01/F02).

Some people do not mind losing the ability to level the Monk class, as they take it initially to acquire the Wisdom AC bonus and the increased speed (similar to taking one level of Ranger for the free 2-wield or one level of Paladin for Divine Grace). However, if you wanted to explore the Monk class, you'd want to keep the option open. I would advise, though, against splitting the monk/cleric levels evenly or even diluting the monk at all (unless you are doing the 1 level thing) - as the monk's real power lies in the abilities he gains with the progression of his/her levels.

[Nosaj]

Thanks a lot!