You have spent years navigating the shadowy world of illicit magic, dealing in forbidden artifacts, outlawed spells, and dangerous enchantments. Whether driven by profit, curiosity, or a rebellious streak, you’ve made connections in the underworld that allow you to operate outside the boundaries of the law. As an Arcane Smuggler, you know how to move contraband through heavily guarded cities, avoid detection from authorities, and negotiate with powerful but secretive buyers.
Skill Proficiencies: Stealth, Deception Tool Proficiencies: Thieves’ tools, Forgery kit Languages: One of your choice Equipment: A set of dark, hooded clothes, a small hidden compartment or pouch for smuggling items, a set of thieves’ tools, a forged document of your choice (like a travel permit or trading licence), and a belt pouch containing 10 gp
Arcane Smuggling Specialisations
Arcane Smugglers often develop specific expertise in their trade, honing their skills to suit particular types of goods or environments. Work with your DM to determine your specialisation and how it influences your skills and experiences. You can select your smuggling specialisation from the table below or roll randomly.
d8
Specialisation
1
Artifact Relocation
2
Potion Peddler
3
Scroll Runner
4
Talisman Trader
5
Underdark Courier
6
Cursed Relic Broker
7
Arcane Arms Dealer
8
Fugitive Shifter
Feature: Black Market Contacts
You have a network of black market contacts who can buy or sell illegal magical items. You can arrange safe passage for yourself and allies through underground routes. When seeking rare or illegal magical items, you know where to find a dealer, though the price and risks may be high. You can also rely on these contacts to discreetly smuggle people or goods across borders, avoiding official scrutiny.
Suggested Characteristics
Arcane Smugglers are a diverse group, driven by greed, rebellion, curiosity, or a sense of justice. They live on the edge, balancing between what’s right and what’s profitable. Despite the risks, many take pride in their cunning and resourcefulness.
d8
Personality Trait
1
I love the thrill of outsmarting authorities; nothing beats the rush of a perfect con.
2
I have a secret code: I’ll deal in illegal goods, but never to those who would misuse them.
3
I stay calm, even when things go wrong, acting like everything’s going to plan.
4
I mistrust authority; the law has never done me any favours.
5
I have a flair for the dramatic, preferring flashy plans over simple ones.
6
I’m always hunting the next big score, there’s always a bigger pay out.
7
I keep my secrets close; trust is a luxury I can’t afford.
8
I have a guilty conscience and secretly try to make up for my shady dealings.
d6
Ideal
1
Profit – My work is dangerous, but the pay out is worth it. (Neutral)
2
Freedom – The laws are oppressive; by breaking them, I show the world that rules are made to be bent. (Chaotic)
3
Secrecy – The less others know about me, the better. (Neutral)
4
Justice – I use my skills to help those who can’t fight back against the system. (Good)
5
Rebellion- I’m not just in this for the money; I’m striking a blow against a corrupt society. (Chaotic)
6
Control – I use my knowledge of the black market to manipulate others for my gain. (Evil)
d6
Bond
1
A contact once saved my life. I owe them, and I’ll do anything to pay back that debt.
2
A rival smuggler ruined a big job for me once. I’m determined to pay them back in kind.
3
I’ve got a family member who’s always in trouble with the law. I keep bailing them out, even though they don’t know it.
4
I was betrayed by someone I trusted. Now, I keep my guard up around everyone.
5
I made a promise to someone to get out of the game, but it keeps pulling me back in.
6
There’s a place or item I’ve sworn to protect, no matter the cost.
d6
Flaw
1
I can’t resist a good con, even when it’s risky or unnecessary.
2
I’ve made some powerful enemies in the underworld, and they’re always looking for me.
3
I have a soft spot for people in trouble, even when it puts me at risk.
4
I have a terrible gambling habit, and I’m deep in debt.
5
I trust my instincts more than other people’s advice, even when it gets me into trouble.
6
I get nervous and jittery when I’m not in control of a situation.
Variant Arcane Smuggler: Arcane Fence
Some Arcane Smugglers specialise in the exchange of magical items. As an Arcane Fence, you can replace your Stealth proficiency with Insight, and your thieves’ tools proficiency with jeweller’s tools. Your Black Market Contacts feature allows you to evaluate and negotiate the sale of magical items with expert precision.
