Background Scholar

Scholar

You have devoted your life to intellectual pursuits, trying to unravel the mysteries of the world, the universe, or perhaps some arcane texts. Whether you've been part of a secret society, a well-established university, or an independent researcher, your thirst for knowledge knows no bounds. The field could be anything from anthropology to zoology, but it's clear that your expertise could make the difference on an adventure.

Skill Proficiencies: Investigation, Nature

Tool Proficiencies: Alchemist’s Supplies

Languages: 2 of your choice.

Equipment: A well-thumbed book on your chosen field of study, ink and inkpen, a set of traveler’s clothes, a notebook, and a pouch containing 15 gp.

Starting Equipment

You start with the following equipment, in addition to the equipment granted by your class:

  • (2x) book
  • ink (1 ounce bottle) and ink pen
  • clothes, traveler's

Feature: Master of Lore

Your extensive studies enable you to recall information on a wide variety of topics. When attempting to discover or remember a piece of knowledge, you have a knack for knowing where to get that information if you don’t already have it. This can be from a hidden section of a library, an old mentor, or some secretive organization that owes you a favor.

Suggested Characteristics

Enlightened Scholars can be reserved or social, but they all share a thirst for knowledge and understanding. They value their research and will go to great lengths to defend it or see it come to fruition.

d8Personality Trait
d1I use obscure references and analogies to explain things.
d2I am fascinated by puzzles and riddles, both literal and metaphorical.
d3I prefer to observe interactions rather than be part of them.
d4I’m always scribbling notes about phenomena I observe.
d5I get visibly excited when a new avenue of research opens up.
d6I have a catchphrase that I utter when making a discovery.
d7I am doggedly skeptical, requiring empirical evidence for claims.
d8I believe in the value of a well-placed hypothesis.
d6Ideal
d1Discovery: The world is full of hidden secrets waiting to be discovered. (Neutral)
d2Legacy: I want to contribute something to the world that will outlast me. (Any)
d3Wisdom: The more we know, the better we can shape our destinies. (Good)
d4Complexity: The world is not black and white; it’s a myriad of colors and nuance. (Chaotic)
d5Structure: All phenomena adhere to certain rules; understanding them is the key. (Lawful)
d6Utility: Knowledge is a means to an end, a tool to solve problems. (Pragmatic)
d6Bond
d1I owe my education to the charity of a deceased mentor, whose memory I honor.
d2My studies led me to a secret or revelation I must protect.
d3I belong to a secret or prestigious academic society.
d4A rival scholar publicly humiliated me; I will prove them wrong.
d5I was inspired by a legendary scholar and aspire to meet or surpass their achievements.
d6I have an academic project that’s been years in the making.
d6Flaw
d1I am prone to distraction when a new mystery or question arises.
d2I view those who aren't educated as intellectually inferior.
d3I am stubborn and will continue down a line of reasoning even after proven wrong.
d4I sometimes neglect personal relationships in favor of my studies.
d5I often forget mundane details, being too focused on my scholarly pursuits.
d6I can be pedantic, correcting others' inaccuracies even when it's not the time or place.

Credits: Game Squires