Strength and damage

[Snaggles]

Actually strength plays a MASSIVE role in attack power. I don't know the conversion but it's the only thing that adds it besides attack+ spells.

As a Paladin it doesn't really matter as the gap with Stam/Str between the races is negligable but with SK's for pure stats an Ogre is a noticable difference killing mobs over a dark elf.

I would play the Erudite if you like the look. Expect to do pretty crappy damage your entire life (low skill caps and not many offense spells) but have heals to back you up. At full Mana a Pally has about 5 or so lifebars so a versatile slow & steady player wins the race. [You must be logged in to view images. Log in or Register.].

Edit: As mentioned it's not your role. Damage with a 1hander/shield also pales compared to a 2hander but helps your main goal of being a dmg sponge. With buffs, haste and levels it gets better but set your expectations accordingly.