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Ok! So I have recently realised that there is a void in my life. A void that can only be filled by giant slugs.
It's a very specific void.
I've been looking at the rules and think I've just about got a first level druid sorted out, but wondered if anyone might know anything about the following questions:
Availability: First up! Is this actually feasible? I've seen that in UM there's a note saying that Druids can take a Verminous companion, but I didn't spot anything about any class/feat pre-reqs for this option. Are squidgy things free for all or do I have to pay to unlock the Acochlidium of my dreams?
Purpose: Now, what's the point in having a giant slug if you can't ride it about? With suitable reinforced waders and realistic expectations about being invited to nice places, naturally. Now they start at Medium so theoretically a small-sized character (let's face it, Gnome. Going to be a gnome) could sit on it... but would it actually go?
I've noted that, to be trained for purpose: Riding, an animal companion has to have three tricks - come, heel, and stay.
Problem is, Vermin start off as mindless with only one base trick and one bonus trick - until you can put a point into its Int, giving it an actual score and the two other tricks Animal Companions start with by default. I'm assuming then it won't serve automatically as a mount until that point but is it possible to Push an animal into performing an unfamiliar role as well as into attempting unfamiliar tricks, or am I being too hasty with the lettuce on a fishing line?
Carrying Capacity: So, if I can't sit on it, can it at least carry my stuff around? Unfortunately, as well as being a (literal) jelly-brain, the slug is also a stone-cold wuss with a starting Strength score of 13. How can it be expected to carry around my character and an exotic military saddle (to compensate for the - 5 on ride checks that comes from it being a beast that was never meant to be sat upon) in style and comfort?
Now, I know quadrupeds have an increased carrying capacity... but this beasty has no legs at all. It -is- a sturdy muscle sausage (never something to google) and nice and low to the ground, so I'm not sure how this factors into its ability to drag things about.
Please help me, oracles of the Paizo Forums! Grant me your insight!