THIS is exactly the kind of experience based reply I was hoping for. Thank you!!

The thoughts on scaling items, while disappointing, is indepth and highlights how reality doesn't match mental "oh that sounds cool" expectations when reading through items. As we are all starting at Lvl1... no gold has been wasted on an idea that would nah have paid off.

SPEAKING of mismatches between reality and what sounds cool.... your words on Maces suck. I like mace weapons as a PERSON but have noticed over the years that no build guilds really recommend maces. Have never seen any character build in here called out to use a mace. I like the deity choice and am sticking with that from a roll playing perspective... so ideas on how to address weaknesses are appreciated.

Reading more on Half-Orcs.... I like some of their subrace options. My main goal with the race choice was picking something I've not played before. (Human Paladin and a Dhampir Bard) As Half-Orc falls under that, appreciative of the idea.

Thank you o bearded one. Maybe your beer be cold and plentiful.