[Cerek the Barbaric]

Cool list, Dirty Meg. Naturally, there will be some disagreements, but I like the list and the reasons you gave for each.

I only have two disagreements myself. I think Jaheira is much better than you give her credit for. As the only fighter with a proficiency in "club", she has access to one of the best weapons early in the game (Illyich's +3 Club). She can also get Gnasher and Blackblood by the time you finish Trademeet. These two clubs can then be taken to Cromwell and combined to make Pitchwife +5, does extra acid damage and sends slivers into the opponent (3/round for 4 rounds), and grants 25% Acid Resistance. Combine the slivers (which prevent further casting) with her Insect Plague and Jaheira is actually better "Wizard Slayer" than most characters that choose that particular kit.

Jaheira also has some handy high level spells and some great HLA's. And since many of her low level spells are practically useless, you can just load up on Healing spells.

Jaheira is a "keeper" in almost every party I run.

The other character I really like is Yoshimo. His traps absolutely ROCK!!! I know that you lose him during the game, but there is actually a way to get him back if you do it right.

I've never tried it myself (although I plan to with my assassin's party). I am a bit sketchy on the details and I may overlook one of the steps, but the way to get Yoshimo back in your party is.....
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OBLIGATORY SPOILER WARNING
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first, kick Yoshimo out of your party before leaving for Spellhold. Tell him to wait for you at the Copper Coronet. Once you return from Spellhold, leave a slot available to add him back to the party, then go to the Copper Coronet.

When Yoshimo sees your party is safe and sound, the game script causes him to literally drop dead on the spot. But if you are quick enough on the PAUSE button, there is a way to prevent his death from being permanent. Hit the Pause button as soon as you enter the Coronet. Yoshimo is right by the lower door, so click on him (while the game is still Paused) to initiate dialogue). By doing this, I believe you actually have the chance to add him BACK to the party before he drops dead. There is NO WAY to prevent him from dying, but since he is back in your party, you can now Resurrect him (with the Rod or with the help of a local temple). After that, you can just continue on with game normally.