[RPG] How does Sneak Attack damage apply to Vampiric Touch

dnd-3.5esneak-attack

Inspired by the question Does sneak attack class feature apply for ranged touch attacks?
asked by ayvango. Under that question, it is made clear that in D&D 3.5 Sneak Attack damage indeed applies to spells that require an attack roll.

This is a newfound boon for my Daggerspell Mage character I have not been aware of.

Yet there are some things that answers to the previous question did not clear up for me. One such is: how does Sneak Attack damage apply to Vampiric Touch? Is it above the damage cap of max 10d6, and does it convert to temporary hitpoints?

My interpretation is that Sneak Attack damage is above the cap and does not convert to temporary damage (as it is not the spell's damage).

Is this correct? If not, why? (Any official reference is welcome.)

Best Answer

Is it above the damage cap of max 10d6?

According to the entry for vampiric touch:

Your touch deals 1d6 points of damage per two caster levels (maximum 10d6).

The cap is just a maximum that can be added by caster level.

Does it convert to temporary hitpoints?

You gain temporary hit points equal to the damage you deal.

The sneak attack damage does qualify for temporary hitpoints.

However, you can’t gain more than the subject’s current hit points +10

But you are still limited to the same maximum temporary hitpoints