Fade.1743

This is a relic of the original system of traits. Originally each trait line (5 core ones) was tied to two stats (Power/x, Precision/y, Toughness/z, Vitality/a, Profession specific/b). x, y, z, a, and b were Boon Duration (Concentration), Condition Duration (Expertise), Condition Damage (Condition), Healing Power, and Crit Damage (Ferocity). When you invested into a traitline, you increased the stats. So profession specific for ranger was Pet Attribute Bonus. That's basically been replaced by Pack Alpha.

I have a Soulbeast looking to do endgame PvE and am working on a Druid set

I could see them doing Ranger as some sort of Commando in the future (as this would be akin to IRL US Army Rangers which are a pretty elite military unit). But not for EoD. It's a bit too soon after Deadeye where they would probably a very similar style of play

Amala is a Dervish. In GW1, each of the five human gods had an avatar form. Amala uses some unique models for each one, but if you look at the Avatar of Melandru, it's a very similar model. Avatar of Balthazar is the same model as in GW1. Remember that both Guild Wars run on the same engine. Also, Sylvari are based off human designs. Ventari was only influence of the Sylvari. Ronan (human) was also present in Ventari's Refuge. The Pale Tree based Sylvari upon him. So it's more than likely showing how the Sylvari of the Pale Tree are based off humans.

Ah, I should update now that I'm free. IDK why anyone would think increased toughness does not increase aggro. I know it doesn't work like other MMOs, but having higher toughness (and/or a shield) also increase the chance for being attacked. Back when I was having issues, I'd wait about 5-10 seconds after everyone else, hit a few abilities, and immediately draw aggro. Anyway, swapping in Dolyak Stance for the first slot (using Sic 'Em, and the ferocity Signet) that's free to replace helped out a lot. I also started using the Defensive Potions even in Tier 2. I got so used to the huge amount of defense that Reaper brings that I'd only use them for Tier 3. As for Tier, I either do T2 or T3 at the moment. I've just recently unlocked T4, but I don't have enough AR to be able to do much into it. I'm not really in a rush for it either. Really the fights that were frustrating me were Mai Trinn (only slightly less annoying than original release back in 2013) and the new pirate one where the stupid filter means I can't tell which AoE is on me if I don't see the target reticle for the split second.