You have devoted your life to the study of arcane knowledge, spending countless hours in libraries and academies, poring over ancient texts and scrolls. Your thirst for understanding the mysteries of the magical world has granted you deep insights into the workings of magic, making you a valuable resource for any adventuring party. Whether you were a student at a renowned arcane institution, an independent researcher, or a collector of rare magical tomes, your expertise in all things arcane sets you apart.
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, History Tool Proficiencies: Calligrapher’s supplies, one type of artisan’s tools Languages: Two of your choice Equipment: A set of calligrapher’s supplies, a letter of introduction from an arcane institution, a small collection of rare books (worth 15 gp), A set of common clothes, and a pouch containing 10 gp.
Arcane Scholar Specialisations
As an Arcane Scholar, your studies may have focused on specific areas of magic or magical history. Work with your DM to determine your specialisation and how it influences your skills and experiences. You can select your specialisation from the table below or roll randomly.
d8
Specialisation
1
Ancient Runes
2
Magical Creatures
3
Arcane Artifacts
4
Planar Studies
5
Forbidden Lore
6
Enchantment Theory
7
Elemental Magic
8
Magical History
Feature: Arcane Library Access
You have access to a well-stocked library of magical texts. Whether it’s the grand halls of a wizarding academy or your personal collection of rare tomes, you can research spells, magical creatures, and arcane history with ease. When you are in a library or similar place of knowledge, you have advantage on Intelligence (Arcana) checks to research topics related to magic. Additionally, you can request access to restricted sections of libraries, though gaining such access may require you to provide a service or prove your worth.
Suggested Characteristics
Arcane Scholars are defined by their insatiable curiosity and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. They can be eccentric, with a tendency to get lost in thought or speak in jargon. Their passion for learning often makes them driven, but it can also make them seem distant or overly focused on their studies.
d8
Personality Trait
1
I am always eager to share my knowledge, sometimes to the point of overwhelming others with information.
2
I often get lost in thought, considering new theories or ideas even in the midst of danger.
3
I carry a small notebook where I jot down every new piece of arcane lore I encounter.
4
I have a habit of quoting ancient texts and obscure tomes in conversation.
5
I am highly organised and meticulous in my studies and personal life.
6
I get frustrated when others don’t understand or appreciate the importance of knowledge.
7
I am always on the lookout for rare books and scrolls to add to my collection.
8
I believe that there is always more to learn and will never turn down the opportunity to study something new.
d6
Ideal
1
Knowledge – The pursuit of knowledge is the highest aspiration one can have. (Neutral)
2
Power – Knowledge is power, and I seek to gain as much as possible. (Evil)
3
Discovery – Every new discovery is a step toward understanding the universe. (Good)
4
Improvement – I study to better myself and, by extension, the world around me. (Lawful)
5
Freedom – Knowledge should be free to all, and no one should hoard it. (Chaotic)
6
Tradition – I honour the ancient traditions and teachings of those who came before me. (Neutral)
d6
Bond
1
I have a mentor who guided me through my early studies and whom I still look up to.
2
I am searching for a lost tome that contains knowledge I desperately seek.
3
I owe a debt to a library or institution that sponsored my studies.
4
I have a rival scholar who challenges my work and theories at every turn.
5
I am dedicated to preserving ancient knowledge and will go to great lengths to protect it.
6
My studies have led me to uncover a dangerous secret that I must keep safe.
d6
Flaw
1
I am so focused on my studies that I often neglect the needs and feelings of those around me.
2
I am overly confident in my knowledge, sometimes underestimating the dangers of the unknown.
3
I can be arrogant, believing that my intellect makes me superior to others.
4
I am obsessed with uncovering secrets, even if it means breaking laws or endangering others.
5
I am mistrustful of those who lack formal education, dismissing their ideas as ignorant.
6
I am so driven by curiosity that I sometimes take reckless risks in pursuit of new knowledge.
Variant Arcane Scholar: Arcane Archivist
While some Arcane Scholars delve into magical mysteries, Arcane Archivists focus on preserving and organising arcane knowledge. You can replace your History proficiency with Investigation, and your proficiency with calligrapher’s supplies with cartographer’s tools. Your Arcane Library Access feature emphasises your expertise in cataloguing and cross-referencing magical texts, making research more efficient.
