So I'm playing Crimson Throne, and to avoid spoilers, let's just say that the opportunity to play a Shoanti has presented itself. I'm going to play a member of the Hawk Clan who is the embodiment of the sky.
My idea is for a Synthesist Summoner with the dimensional agility feat chain. I'll have a bird eidelon that I fuse with ("Soul of the Eagle!"), and I'll use dimension door to breeze by enemies ("Spirit of Wind!"). If I can make it work, I'd also like to do some trip focus with a Shoanti Bola.
I'm coming in at 8th level. I figure at least seven levels of synthesist for access to 3rd level spells (mainly Dimension Door) and maybe a one level dip in fighter for feats and proficiencies or in rogue for skills and sneak attack.
So here are my questions:
1) How should I build my eidelon? There's no obvious form for a bird.
2) Should I build for STR or DEX? I know synthesists can dish out the damage, and the character I'm replacing is a Greatsword-wielding Invulnerable Rager. However, the character theme seems more suited to a DEX build.
3) Can I afford the feats and 13 INT required for a trip build and still do the Dimensional chain?