Question on the Tekhnomántis Automata Control rule

[zedmeister]

I'm working out an Atalantes host and I have a question. Most likely, it's because I'm not reading the rules correctly. First, here's the rule:

"Controller of Automata: If a Tekhnomántis is mustered as a host commander, any automata may be mustered in the Tekhnomántis' command as if their AUTHORITY is halved. Additionally, one Rare automaton in the host becomes Uncommon, although this only applies to the first Tekhnomántis included in the host."

Presumably, the technomantis has to lead a command, but not necessarily be the general, in order for an Automaton to be taken at half authority. Also, on the Rare to Uncommon part - is that a compulsory change or an optional change to a warriors ubiquity?

[Alex (ÉgB)]

RAW it says it becomes Uncommon, not that it may become Uncommon, so currently to me it'd be compulsory as the wording doesn't allow for choice as is.

[zedmeister]

Makes sense.

I'll need to adjust my lists as I keep running out of uncommon slots in my 2,000g battle list!

[Alex (ÉgB)]

I find uncommon slots run out quicker than rare in most lists!

[Rick_Boer]

Keep in mind that a Tekhnomantis can bind units to him, which means you don't have to count those ubiquities..
Can't believe I even opened the Atalantes musters to check

[zedmeister]

Keep in mind that a Tekhnomantis can bind units to him, which means you don't have to count those ubiquities..
Can't believe I even opened the Atalantes musters to check

Ahh, need to read up about binding more.

But to get more Automata, you have to get them at their full authority which means a single commander for that and two out of three of them are Uncommon. And the Tekhno is a Rare choice so my choice of big beasties is limited by that. Do I go for an Tekhno and an Ogros or a Tekhno and two Colossi? Argh! Not enough Rare or Commons

[Rob Lane]

This should be in Rules Discussion - I'll move it.

Cheers
Rob