CHAPTER 1 - THE BASICS #

A FEW WORDS #

Fantasy roleplaying is a captivating force that spreads like wildfire, impossible to contain once it touches your soul. My personal journey commenced in 1986 when my older brother brought home those iconic red and blue box sets of a popular roleplaying game. Having been immersed in fantasy game books for years, it was only natural to take the next step.

Under my brother's guidance, I delved into a realm of mythical wonders, where the boundaries were dictated by my imagination and the roll of those beautifully crafted dice. After hours of playing a 1st level Cleric, chosen for my high Wisdom score, I pondered the endless possibilities of this game.

A few days later, I sought out my local gaming shop (a stamp and coin shop near the seafront) and acquired my very first set of dice. It took weeks to save up for that shiny red box, but once I possessed it, my true adventure began—for me and the countless others who would partake in my games throughout the years.

I like to believe that my roleplaying campaigns have left lasting memories on those who have journeyed alongside me. Together, we have unravelled fantasy worlds, challenging gods and battling goblins (as well as the odd tavern brawl). We have traversed the fabric of reality, venturing into dreamscapes and parallel universes. Timelines have fractured, alternate realities have spawned, and great demons have been vanquished at the nexus of time. We have traversed the galaxy in mighty starships (and crashed hover planes into buildings). Formidable supervillains have crumbled before our powers, while tyrants have risen, leaving a legacy of terror upon unfamiliar worlds.

Then there are the moments of pure comedy—the player who crafted a new character just before a momentous battle, only to perish so swiftly that their name went unknown to the party. The psychotic, sociopathic android who consistently led their comrades into blatant death-traps. The bumbling Northman who habitually sprung every trap by opening doors before the rogue could intervene. The chaotic gnome wizard who leaped off a cliff, only to remember he hadn't prepared a feather fall spell—countless tales that continue to bring laughter and merriment.

When reminiscing with past and present players, we fondly recall characters and situations as if they were real occurrences. It both amuses and warms my heart to recall the memories of these remarkable characters. Characters like Parx Tainlel, a priest of the goddess of magic, possessed by a demon and eventually wrested back under the player's control after two decades. Graydon Tainlel, the son of Parx, born of a mortal mother and demon father. These, along with countless others, have inhabited my games for the past 25 years.

This brings me to the book you now hold in your hands. As an experienced Gamesmaster, I have always found the need to house rule and adapt game systems to suit the needs of my players and myself. With the release of the 5th edition of a popular D20 game, I felt that the overarching needs of my gamers had not been fully met. It was then that my younger brother suggested I write my own game, and that seed firmly planted itself in my mind.

On March 5th, 2015, I sat before my computer and began penning the first words of the rulebook now in your possession. Within a month, I conducted alpha playtests, and the work continued with fervour. Read, play, and play again. Hopefully, you will find minimal need to alter the rules to suit your preferences, but if necessary, feel free to share your modifications with me.

Most importantly, have fun……..

Graham Seeney

After over a year of playing the full release of TRG, it became clear that a d20 system was necessary. This new approach begins with TRG: Prime, a streamlined d20 adaptation of the core TRG rules. Skills remain in the same format, but notable changes have been made to critical tables, spells, energy types, and feats.

This adaptation responds to player feedback seeking a more familiar experience. By embracing the d20 framework, TRG: Prime preserves the depth of the original while improving accessibility and pacing, making it an ideal entry point for new players and a fresh challenge for veterans alike.

Gregan Tainlel, the master thief of the Duchy of Aequus, stood hidden in the shadows of the ancient temple of Malkurath, the God of Death. The past few months had been a whirlwind of cunning schemes and narrow escapes, all leading to this moment. The legendary Dark Idol, a relic said to hold the very essence of Malkurath’s power, was within his reach. Tales of its cursed magic, capable of summoning death itself, only made the prize more enticing for a man like Gregan, who thrived on the thrill of impossible odds.

He paused, fingers tracing the scar on his cheek—a reminder of his narrow escape from the catacombs beneath the Imperial Palace of Aequus. The flickering torchlight from the temple’s braziers cast long, skeletal shadows across the stone walls, making the carvings of skulls and serpents seem almost alive. As he crouched behind a cracked pillar, Gregan couldn’t help but reflect on his journey. He had outwitted the city guard, slipped through the grasp of rival thieves, and now stood on the precipice of one of the greatest heists the Numari Empire had ever seen.

The temple’s inner sanctum loomed before him, a massive chamber draped in black silk and filled with the scent of burning incense. At its heart stood the altar of Malkurath, and atop it, the idol—its surface polished to a mirror-like sheen that seemed to absorb the light around it. Gregan’s sharp eyes scanned the room. He knew the priests would have laid traps, and he wouldn’t get a second chance if he mis stepped. The idol was guarded not only by ancient wards of soul magic but also by the vigilant Scythes, the deadly clerics of Malkurath, sworn to protect the relics of their god.

Gregan had prepared for this moment. He recalled the arcane symbols he had deciphered in the forbidden texts stolen from the archives of the Imperial University—a warning of the soul-binding magic that would guard the relic. He pulled a small pouch from his belt and sprinkled a fine, shimmering powder over the ground—a rare alchemical concoction designed to disrupt magical wards. He felt the faint hum of energy dissipate, the oppressive air in the chamber easing slightly.

Just as he stepped towards the altar, a low chant echoed from the far side of the room. Three Scythes entered, clad in robes as dark as the void, their faces obscured by bone-white masks. Leading them was the High Scythe herself, carrying a staff crowned with a sickly green crystal that pulsed with necrotic energy. Gregan’s heart skipped a beat; he had expected guards, but not the temple’s high priestess.

For a fleeting moment, he considered retreat. But the thrill of the challenge, the allure of the idol, and the chance to outwit the High Scythe filled him with reckless determination. He drew a thin, silver dagger—unassuming to the untrained eye, but imbued with the blessing of the Agothian fey, capable of severing the threads of soul magic. With a roguish grin, he whispered, “Time for one last dance.”

Gregan lunged forward, moving like a shadow between the flickering lights. His blade met the staff of the High Scythe with a resounding clash, sending sparks into the air. The chamber erupted into chaos as the other clerics joined the fray. The scent of burning incense mixed with the metallic tang of blood as the thief fought with the grace of a dancer, every strike precise and calculated.

In the heart of the melee, Gregan spun and vaulted onto the altar, seizing the Dark Idol with both hands. Its surface was icy cold, and a wave of dark energy surged through him, making his skin crawl. He felt a brief moment of triumph as he lifted the relic free—until the room fell silent, and a cold wind swept through the chamber.

The Scythes stepped back; their chanting halted. The High Scythe’s mask tilted slightly, and Gregan saw a glint of amusement in her eyes. “You’ve taken what is not yours, thief,” she intoned, her voice echoing with a power beyond mortal comprehension. The ground beneath Gregan began to crack, and tendrils of shadow coiled around his legs, pulling him down into the earth.

Gregan’s smirk faltered, but he tightened his grip on the idol. He had one last trick up his sleeve. With a flick of his wrist, he smashed a vial of blessed oil against the relic, disrupting the soul-binding magic. The shadows recoiled, and a shocked gasp rippled through the chamber as he sprang towards the archway, the idol clutched tightly to his chest.

The High Scythe’s laughter echoed through the temple as Gregan sprinted into the night, her mocking voice trailing behind him like a ghostly whisper. Bells rang out through the darkened streets of Aequus, sounding the alarm. But the thief had already vanished into the maze of alleyways and rooftops that made up the city’s sprawling underbelly.

Whether he had secured a treasure beyond measure or cursed himself with a relic of death, only time would tell. For now, Gregan Tainlel had pulled off the heist of a lifetime, outwitting the Scythes and escaping the clutches of Malkurath’s devoted. It was a feat that would be whispered about in the taverns of the Numari Empire for years to come, a tale of daring and skill that solidified his reputation as the greatest thief the empire had ever known.

GETTING STARTED #

The Traris Roleplaying Game (TRG) offers an experience like no other, immersing players in a world of mythical adventure where great heroes—or cunning villains—come together to pursue epic goals within a dynamic campaign setting. As a player, you’ll create a unique character and collaborate with fellow adventurers, embarking on quests and overcoming challenges as a team. For those who choose the role of Gamesmaster, TRG offers the opportunity to craft vast, imaginative worlds where your players can explore the limits of what’s possible.

In an era dominated by computers (and, admittedly, I’m writing this on one), it’s easy to let graphics and sound effects fill the space where our imagination once thrived. Yet, a roleplaying game like TRG rekindles the spark of creativity, inviting us to step beyond the constraints of programmed experiences. In a video game, no matter how advanced, you’ve likely encountered moments where you wondered what lay behind a locked door, wished you could interact with a particular item, or yearned to confront a background character.

These limitations are where TRG truly shines—unlike computer games, a roleplaying game has no boundaries. It empowers you to explore anything you can imagine, without the restrictions of pre-set programming. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the world of tabletop roleplaying, TRG opens the door to infinite possibilities. So, let’s dive in and see what it takes to embark on this journey of imagination and creativity.

PLAYER CHARACTER

If you're reading this book, chances are you’re preparing to take on the role of a player in the Traris Roleplaying Game. Your task is to create a unique character and step into their shoes as you navigate the campaign crafted by your Gamesmaster. In the upcoming chapters, you’ll discover everything you need to know to build your character and breathe life into them throughout the game.

A Player Character (often abbreviated as PC) is one of the protagonists of the story. Your character will likely be part of a team (although solo adventures are possible) working together to complete quests, grow in power, and perhaps even confront the gods themselves. It’s an exciting journey filled with opportunities for adventure and heroics.

To play the Traris Roleplaying Game, you’ll need a set of polyhedral dice. While most board games only use six-sided dice, this game requires a wider variety, with the primary roll being made using a twenty-sided die (d20). You may also need other dice, such as four-sided (d4), six-sided (d6), eight-sided (d8), ten-sided (d10), and twelve-sided (d12) dice for various situations and special checks throughout the game.

You can find these specialty dice at your local game store or online. Additionally, you’ll need a character sheet (a copy is included at the back of this book for personal use), as well as a pencil or pen. It’s also helpful to have some scrap paper on hand for notes and maps. To keep track of important details, consider investing in a sturdy notebook—it can be a valuable tool for storing your notes and keeping your adventures organized.

THE BASIC RULES #

TRG Prime offers a foundation for your imagination to thrive. It provides rules to define your character’s abilities, guide your storytelling decisions, and resolve conflicts between characters and the obstacles they encounter.

THE CORE RULES #

TRG Prime uses a streamlined core system to resolve actions. Whenever your character attempts any action with a chance of failure, follow these steps:

1. Roll a twenty-sided die (abbreviated d20).

2. Add any relevant modifiers (such as abilities, skills, and situational bonuses).

3. Compare the total to a number called the action’s Difficulty (DC), a value set by the GM based on the situation.

If the result equals or exceeds the Difficulty, the action is a success. If the result is lower than the Difficulty, the action fails. This straightforward system is used for almost everything in TRG Prime, with adjustments based on modifiers, the set Difficulty, and the effects of success or failure.

THE GAMESMASTER (GM) #

In a TRG Prime game, one player takes on the role of Gamesmaster, abbreviated as GM throughout the rules. The GM is responsible for running the game, acting as a blend of writer, director, and referee. It’s a significant responsibility, but also a highly rewarding one, as the GM gets to craft the setting, bring its characters to life, and create engaging, memorable storylines for the players to explore.

PLAYER CHARACTERS (PC) #

The other players in a TRG Prime game create the protagonists of the story—the central figures of an ongoing adventure series, much like the heroes of a novel or a serial narrative. As a player, you’ll craft your character using the guidelines provided in this book, with support and guidance from your GM, allowing you to build the kind of character you want to play. The process involves several key components, which are briefly outlined here and explained in detail in the following chapters.

ABILITY SCORES

In TRG Prime, all player characters (PCs) have core ability scores that define their capabilities. These ability scores are:

Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.

Higher ability scores provide bonuses (+1 to +5), while lower scores impose penalties (down to -5). These scores impact your d20 rolls for core actions.

During character creation, you’ll determine how strong, agile, tough, intelligent, wise, and charismatic your character is by selecting their ability scores. Detailed steps for generating your character are outlined later in this chapter.

OPEN ENDEDMany of the checks that are made in the game will be open-ended. This involves rolling the dice again if a high or low result is made on the initial check. Open-ended checks are explained in more detail in the next section.OPEN ENDEDMany of the checks that are made in the game will be open-ended. This involves rolling the dice again if a high or low result is made on the initial check. Open-ended checks are explained in more detail in the next section.

RACE & BACKGROUND

In TRG Prime, each player character (PC) begins by choosing a race and a background. Race serves as a crucial foundation, shaping your character’s origins and providing a starting point for the rest of the character creation process. It also sets the tone for your character’s growth and development throughout the game.

Your character’s background, on the other hand, explains their past and roots, adding depth to their story. It also grants key abilities and skills that reflect their upbringing and life experiences before the adventure begins.

CHARACTER CLASS

In TRG Prime, player characters (PCs) choose from one of eight distinct character classes, categorized into three main types: Adept, Expert, and Martial. Each class defines the role your character plays in the story, shaping their abilities, strengths, and the way they interact with the world around them.

SKILLS

In TRG Prime, skills represent a character’s competency in specific tasks or areas of knowledge, such as acrobatics, diplomacy, riding, or stealth. Skills are measured in ranks, representing a character’s level of training in a given skill. Each rank grants a +1 bonus when a PC attempts an action related to that skill. Players select their PC’s skills from a list of available options. For more details, see Chapters 3 & 4.

FEATS

Feats in TRG Prime are special abilities that represent unique talents or advanced training. They allow your PC to perform actions beyond the capabilities of others or grant specific advantages in certain situations. You choose your PC’s feats based on the abilities you want them to have, tailoring their strengths to fit your playstyle. As your character levels up and grows, they acquire additional feats. For more details, see Chapter 5: Feats.

DICE ROLLS #

There are a number of different die rolls in TRG, although they all follow the core system of a d20 roll plus modifiers versus a Difficulty.

The three main die rolls are checks, attack rolls, and saving throws.

CHECKS

To make a check in TRG Prime, roll a d20 and add your modifier for the relevant trait (such as an ability or skill). The goal is to roll as high as possible. Rolling a natural 20 (a roll of 20 before adding modifiers) is not an automatic success, and rolling a natural 1 (a roll of 1 before adding modifiers) is not an automatic failure—except in the case of attack rolls, which follow different rules (see Attack Rolls later in this Introduction and Chapter 7 for more details).

Check = d20 + modifier versus Difficulty

GLOSSARY OF TERMS #

TRG Prime uses various terms and abbreviations that you’ll become familiar with as you play. Below is a summary of the most frequently used terms.

ABILITY SCORE

Each creature has six ability scores: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. These scores represent a creature's basic attributes. Higher scores provide bonuses, while lower scores result in penalties.

ACTION

An action is something that the character can do and generally has an Action Point cost assigned to it. Casting spells, attacking an opponent and climbing a wall are all examples of an action.

ACTION POINT (AP)

Each character begins a tactical round with a set amount of Action Points (AP) usually 3. Actions in combat will have a set amount of AP that must be expended to use them. Certain conditions and abilities can change this number.

ADVANTAGE

When you have advantage on a d20 roll, you roll twice and use the higher result. Advantage can also apply to certain d100 checks, allowing you to select the more favourable die as the tens digit.

ATTACK BONUS (AB)

Attack Bonus measures the overall effectiveness of your attacks with a given weapon, spell or ability. In other words, the Attack Bonus is the number you add to your dice roll when your character performs an attack.

Attack Bonus is calculated using the following formula:

Attack Bonus = base attack bonus + ability score + other bonuses + penalties.

ATTACK ROLL

To make an attack, roll a d20 and add your AB along with any relevant modifiers. If the total meets or exceeds your target’s Defensive Bonus (DB), you successfully hit and deal damage. If your attack value is 5 or greater, you have inflicted a critical hit to your target (see below).

ATTACK VALUE (AV)

This value represents the amount that your attack roll has exceeded your targets Defensive Bonus by. If this value is a certain value (usually 5 or more), then you have inflicted a critical hit to your target.

BASE ATTACK BONUS (BAB)

BAB is a numerical value that represents your combat training and skill in melee and ranged combat. It measures your proficiency and effectiveness in landing successful attacks with weapons. This attribute increases in line with your level and is determined by your character class.

BASE DEFENCE BONUS (BDB)

BDB is a numerical value that represents your ability to avoid blows. This attribute increases in line with your level and is determined by your character class.

BASE SPELL BONUS (BSB)

BSB is a numerical value that represents your ability to cast spells. This attribute increases in line with your level and is determined by your character class.

BONUS

Bonuses are numerical values that are added to checks and statistical scores. Most bonuses have a type, and as a rule, bonuses of the same type are not cumulative (do not “stack”)—only the greater bonus granted applies.

CASTER LEVEL

The total caster level of a character which is used to determine the power level of magic (if any) that they can use.

CHECK

A roll made using a d20 or d100 to determine the outcome of an action. Most checks use d20, while certain advanced checks may use a d100.

CRITICAL HIT

When you successfully strike a target, you may inflict a critical hit. The severity of the critical is based upon your Attack Value (AV).

DAMAGE

Damage is inflicted to a targets Hit Points score from a successful attack.

DAMAGE REDUCTION (DR)

This value is provided by your armour and natural armour and determines how resilient you are to damage.

DEATH STATE

Death State is a fixed character attribute that sets how much Dying a creature can endure before it dies: in TRG, most characters have a Death State of 5 (rarely 4 for unusually frail characters or 6 for exceptionally resilient ones), and whenever a character has the Dying (X) condition they die immediately if their Dying value ever becomes greater than their Death State; check this threshold any time Dying changes (from the start-of-turn Dying Check, taking damage while Dying, failed stabilization, or other effects).

DEFENSIVE BONUS (DB)

Defensive Bonus (DB) is a special difficulty which determines how hard it is for your character to be struck with an attack during combat. As with other Difficulty Checks (DC, see below), the attacker must equal or exceed your DB to score a successful hit on you.

Defensive Bonus is calculated using the following formula:

Defensive Bonus = base defence bonus + Dex + armour modifier + other bonuses + penalties.

BASE DEFENCE

Every character has a Base Defence score which is equal to 10 + class Base Defence Bonus (BDB).

DICE & DICE ROLLS

Most dice rolls and checks that you will make will involve a d20. Other dice will be used from time to time (such as a d6 or d12).

Dice (d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d20, and d%)

When the lowercase letter d is followed by a number, it refers to a die with that many sides. For example, a d6 is a six-sided die, and a d20 is a 20-sided die. Sometimes you roll multiple dice and add them together; in these cases, the number of dice goes in front of the “d” and the type of die goes after it. For example, 4d6 means “roll four six-sided dice and add them together.”

d% rolls

This means rolling two ten-sided dice, possibly of different colour, and counting one of them as the tens and the other as units (of course deciding before rolling which die will be the tens, and which the units).

So, a roll showing up a “5” on the tens die and a “7” on the units die will read as a “57”; a “3” and a “9” as a “39” and “0” and a “4” as a “04” - or simply “4”.

The exception to this is double zeroes, which does not read as a “0” but instead as a “100”.

This way, the two dice combined can produce any result within the 1 and 100 range.

DIFFICULTY CHECK (DC)

Whenever you attempt to perform an action where a success is not guaranteed, you must make some sort of check (usually a skill check). That check is assigned a difficulty by the GM which is referred to as a DC.

DISADVANTAGE

When you have disadvantage on a d20 roll, roll twice and use the lower result. For d100 checks, choose the less favourable die as the tens digit.

EFFECTIVE LEVEL (EL)

This terminology is used for describing the level of a creature. A creature may be more powerful or less powerful than its actual Level and so this value represents its level relative to PC’s.

EXPERIENCE POINTS (XP)

As a character overcomes challenges, defeats monsters, and completes quests, he gains experience points. These points accumulate over time, and when they reach or surpass a specific value, the character gains a level.

FEAT

A feat is an ability which is selected by a creature or character. Feats represent special skills and abilities that help develop an individual creature.

GAME MASTER (GM)

A Game Master is the person who adjudicates the rules and controls all the elements of the story and world that the players explore. A GM's duty is to provide a fair and fun game. The game’s storyteller, referee, and director.

HIT POINTS (HP)

Each character has an amount of HP based upon their size, class, Con and then any modifiers for feats and abilities.

INITIATIVE

Whenever combat begins, all creatures involved in the battle must make an initiative check to determine the order in which creatures act during combat. The higher the result of the check, the earlier a creature gets to act. Initiative is a d100 roll + (Dex x5) + (Wis x5) + any bonus modifiers. The higher the result, the earlier you can act.

LEVEL

The total level of a character.

LEVEL DC

This is a static DC based upon the characters level and a static modifier of 14, often used to resist severe critical effects.

Level DC = level + 14

LINE OF EFFECT (LOE)

A line of effect is a straight, unblocked path that indicates what a spell can affect. A line of effect is cancelled by a solid barrier. It's like line of sight for ranged weapons, except that it's not blocked by fog, darkness, and other factors that limit normal sight. A line of effect starts from any corner of your square and extends to the limit of its range or until it strikes a barrier that would block it. A line-shaped spell affects all creatures in squares through which the line passes.

LINE OF SIGHT (LOS)

A line of sight is the same as a Line of Effect but with the additional restriction that that it is blocked by fog, darkness, and other factors that limit normal sight (such as Concealment).

MELEE ATTACK

An attack in hand-to-hand combat. A basic melee attack is a d20 roll + your attack bonus.

METAGAMING

This is when characters act on information that they don’t have access to, but which their players know from the real world. Metagaming comes into play when players fail to maintain a divide between in-character knowledge and out-of-character knowledge. That could include anything from uncannily accurate in-character predictions from a player who’s already read the adventure, players recognizing monsters when their characters wouldn’t, low-Intelligence characters accessing well-educated players’ knowledge and feats, etc.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTER (NPC)

This is a character played by the Gamemaster (not one of the other players), such as a city guard or innkeeper, or even a monster such as a goblin.

OPEN ENDED ROLLS

When rolling a d20, an open-ended roll means there is no absolute minimum or maximum. First, roll a d20; if the result is 20, roll again and add the new result to the first roll. If the second roll is also 20, roll again and continue adding until a roll other than 20 is made. The total sum of these rolls is the result of the open-ended roll.

Marcus is deep in conversation with a local street thug and makes a Detect Deception (Sense Motive) check to determine if the thug is lying to him. Marcus has a bonus of +17 in the Sense Motive skill and rolls a d20 getting a result of 20. Marcus rolls the dice again and this time gets another 20, thus allowing him to roll again. His third dice roll is a 5 so he rolls no further dice. His total for his check is 17 + 20 + 20 + 5 = 62.

If the first d20 roll is a 1, the dice are rolled again and the result subtracted from the first roll. If the second roll is 20, then a third roll is made and subtracted, and so on until a non 20 roll is made. The total of these rolls is the result of the low open-ended roll. A roll of 1 on anything other than the first roll does not cause one to roll again.

After Marcus achieved a remarkable Heroic success on his Detect Deception check, he uncovers the street thug's hidden secret: the king's daughter is being kept in his basement. Marcus, seizing the opportunity, decides to employ his Bluff (Deception) skill to trick the thug into believing that he is a devoted servant of the girl, urgently needing to speak with her. With an impressive +11 bonus in Deception, Marcus rolls a 1 on his d20 check, triggering a low open-ended roll. His subsequent roll yields a 20, necessitating another roll. Finally, he rolls a 3, which marks the end of the roll sequence. As a result, Marcus achieves a total check of 11 + 1 - 20 - 3 = -11. It appears Marcus may encounter a significant challenge ahead.

Sometimes an open-ended roll may be bottom-ended or top-ended. If this is the case, the roll will only continue in one direction.

When rolling a d%, the same percentage chance remains so a roll of 96-100 indicates that the dice are rolled again and the result added to the first roll and a roll of 01-05 the next die subtracted.

CHAOS RESULTWhen using open-ended checks with a d20, a GM may introduce an element of chaos if a 1 is rolled immediately after an open-ended 20 or 1. This result triggers an unpredictable outcome, determined by the context of the check.For d100 rolls, the same rule applies if a 66 is rolled on the initial check, introducing a chaotic or unexpected effect based on the situation.CHAOS RESULTWhen using open-ended checks with a d20, a GM may introduce an element of chaos if a 1 is rolled immediately after an open-ended 20 or 1. This result triggers an unpredictable outcome, determined by the context of the check.For d100 rolls, the same rule applies if a 66 is rolled on the initial check, introducing a chaotic or unexpected effect based on the situation.

PLAYER CHARACTER (PC)

This is a character directly controlled by one of the players—typically a hero of the story you're playing.

POWER POINTS (PP)

Power points are used when you cast spells. If you have no PP you cannot cast a spell.

RANGED ATTACK

An attack with a projectile weapon, such as a bow and arrow. A basic ranged attack is a d20 roll + your ranged attack bonus.

ROUND

Combat is measured in rounds. During an individual round, all creatures have one turn which is taken in initiative order.

ROUNDING

Occasionally the rules ask you to round a result or value. Unless otherwise stated, always round down. For example, if you are asked to take half of 7, the result would be 3.

SAVING THROW

When a creature is the subject of a dangerous spell or effect, it often receives a saving throw to mitigate the damage or result. Saving throws are passive, meaning that a character does not need to take an action to make a saving throw—they are made automatically. There are three types of saving throw: Fortitude (used to resist poisons, diseases, and other bodily ailments), Reflex (used to avoid area attacks) and Will (used to resist mental attacks and spells).

BASIC SAVING THROW

Sometimes you will be asked to make a basic saving throw which follows the below format:

Critical The target is unaffected.

Success The target takes half damage.

Partial The target takes full damage.

Failure As partial but the target also takes additional base damage and a critical based upon how much they fail by.

LEVEL BASED SAVING THROW

If you are asked to make a level-based saving throw, this is usually a DC based upon the level of the effect (or creature) that you are resisting. If there is no attacking creature or effect, the saving throw is made against your Level DC.

SIZE

A creature’s size comes up frequently. The below table provides modifiers based upon size.

SKILL

A representation of a character’s training in specific tasks or knowledge. Skills always have a tier of proficiency.

SKILL CHECK

Your ability to do something, from lying to climbing a wall or healing wounds. A skill check is a d20 roll + your skill modifier from the related skill (if any).

SPEED

Represents how many feet a creature can move using a single Action Point at walking pace. This is usually a land speed, but maybe another type of movement such as swim or fly.

SPELLCRAFT

The ability to cast spells is represented by a special attribute called Spellcraft. To determine your Spellcraft attribute, add your Base Spell Bonus (BSB) to your tradition ability score. This may be modified further by feats and abilities.

TURN

In a round, a creature receives one turn, during which it can perform a wide variety of actions. Over the course of a creatures turn it can usually carry out 3 Action Points worth of actions.

SPECIAL TEXT TYPES #

Throughout the rulebook you will come across a number of pieces of text which are colour coded. Each one has a different purpose as explained below:

BE AWARE

Text of this type generally gives the player a warning and advises of a rule or option which must be abided by.

EXAMPLE

Text of this type gives an example of a specific rule in use.

EMPHASIS

Text of this type draws attention to a specific rule and emphasises a point of interest.

OPTIONAL

Text of this type describes an optional rule or ruleset which must be authorised by your GM before use.

CHARACTER CREATION #

Beyond the statistics and numbers on your character sheet lies the core of who your character truly is. It’s time to dive into your character’s identity. First, consider their name, gender, and origin. What name do they go by, and from where do they hail? Your GM can provide examples of common names and cultural backgrounds to help you choose, while in a well-defined setting, your place of birth may also shape your character’s appearance and personality. In a more open-ended fantasy world, feel free to create a name that resonates with you, inspired perhaps by a favourite novel or film. Adding details about your character’s backstory will enrich the narrative and seamlessly fit into a variety of adventures.

Next, think about your character’s appearance. How do they look? A vivid and detailed description of their physical features will serve as an anchor in the story, helping both the GM and fellow players visualize your character within the unfolding world. Consider their hair colour, build, distinguishing marks, or style of dress—anything that makes them stand out.

Now, delve into your character’s personality and the experiences that shaped it. What is their outlook on life? What are their greatest hopes and deepest fears? What is their relationship with their family, and where do they reside now? Do they have siblings or children? This part of your character’s description can be as complex as you like, representing the intricate layers of who they are. However, you don’t need to define everything immediately—let some aspects evolve naturally as the game progresses, giving you the chance to discover new depths to your character.

As you develop your character concept, think about what makes them stand out in a world filled with fantastical beings and legendary heroes. What qualities set them apart? What will Bards and storytellers remember first about your character? Keep in mind, though, that striving to be overly unique can sometimes make it hard for others to connect with your character. A couple of distinct traits are enough. These might include physical features (such as striking eye colour, a distinctive tattoo, or a unique piece of clothing), personality quirks (a particular mannerism, an intriguing character flaw, or an unusual phobia), or habits (a love of clever wordplay, a taste for exotic foods, or bouts of unexpected luck). Before you decide on these distinguishing features, check with your GM to ensure they fit well with the game’s setting and tone.

Once you have a clear concept in mind, you’re ready to begin the character creation process, which consists of seven fundamental steps.

STEP 1: ABILITY SCORES #

Every character (PC or NPC) possesses inherent abilities that shape their actions and capabilities. These ability scores have a profound impact on nearly every aspect of your character's endeavours. Greater strength allows for impressive feats of might, heightened dexterity grants enhanced agility and balance, increased constitution grants resilience to endure hardships, and so on.

There are six primary abilities that define a character: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. The trio of Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution represents physical prowess, while Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma encompass mental faculties. Having an above-average score in these abilities bestows bonuses on certain dice rolls, while below-average scores impose penalties on specific rolls. These ability scores serve as the foundation upon which your character's capabilities are built, influencing their interactions and outcomes within the game world.

CHOOSING ABILITY SCORES

Each ability score is assigned a numerical value that represents a corresponding bonus or penalty, ranging from -5 (signifying abysmal or disabled) to +5 or higher (indicating legendary or superhuman abilities), with an average score of 0. When ability scores are referenced in the rule book, the score is specified alongside the name of the ability, such as Strength 2 or Dexterity -1.

At character creation, you are given 6 points to distribute among your ability scores, all of which begin at 0 with no inherent bonus or penalty. This allows for various allocation options, such as having 1 in each of the six abilities, having 3 in one ability while leaving two abilities at 0 and distributing the remaining 5 across the other three abilities, or any combination that adds up to 6. The only restriction is that no ability score can exceed 4 points. (ability scores can increase beyond 4 through level advancement and specific factors.)

If you opt for a negative value in an ability score, you gain bonus points that can be allocated to bolster your other ability scores. This provides flexibility in customizing your character's strengths and weaknesses within the allocated point total.

Lewi assigns Gilbert a Strength –2, this gives him 2 more points to assign to other ability scores.

You cannot have abilities lower than –4, and abilities lower than –2 aren’t recommended unless you are seriously deficient in that ability. Even with bonus points, you cannot put more than 4 points in a single ability score.

Your ability score is added to or subtracted from die rolls when you do something related to that ability. Your Strength score affects the amount of melee damage you do, your Intelligence score affects your Recall Knowledge checks, and so forth. Sometimes your score is used to calculate another value, such as when you use your Dexterity score to help determine how good you are at avoiding harm using your reflexes (your Reflex saving throw).

Be aware that although abilities cannot be started above 4 through the expenditure of ability points, racial modifiers do allow an ability to exceed 4.

You can also use your level-based ability score increases to bring a base ability above 4 to a maximum of 6 (before other modifiers such as racial and magic).

THE ABILITY SCORES

Given here are descriptions of the six ability scores and how they affect your character.

STRENGTH (STR)

Strength measures a character's physical power, muscle, and raw physical force. It influences carrying capacity, melee attack rolls, and damage dealt with melee weapons. This ability score is important for those who engage in hand-to-hand (or “melee”) combat. Strength also sets the maximum amount of weight your character can carry. A character with a Strength score of -5 is too weak to move in any way and is unconscious.

DEXTERITY (DEX)

Dexterity represents a character's agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination. It affects ranged attack rolls, DB, initiative, and certain skills associated with agility and finesse. This ability is vital for characters seeking to excel with ranged weapons, such as the bow or sling. A character with a Dexterity score of -5 is incapable of moving and is effectively immobile (but not unconscious).

CONSTITUTION (CON)

Constitution reflects a character's overall health, endurance, and resilience. It influences HP, Fortitude saving throws, and determines the character's ability to withstand physical hardships and endure conditions. As Constitution increases a character's HP, it is an important ability score for all classes. A character with a Constitution score of -5 is dead.

INTELLIGENCE (INT)

Intelligence represents a character's intellect, knowledge, and cognitive abilities. It affects the character's skill ranks, the number of languages they can learn, and their ability to solve puzzles, recall information, and reason logically. This ability is important for wizards because it affects their spellcasting ability in many ways. Creatures of animal-level instinct have Intelligence scores of -4 or -3. Any creature capable of understanding speech has a score of at least -2. A character with an Intelligence score of -5 is comatose (unless it is mindless).

WISDOM (WIS)

Wisdom reflects a character's perception, intuition, and common sense. It influences Will saving throws, certain skills related to awareness, and spellcasting ability for classes that rely on wisdom. If you want your character to have acute senses, put a high score in Wisdom. A character with a Wisdom score of -5 is incapable of rational thought and is unconscious.

CHARISMA (CHA)

Charisma measures a character's force of personality, charm, and ability to influence others. It affects social interactions, diplomacy, bluffing, and certain spellcasting abilities for classes that rely on charisma. A character with a Charisma score of -5 is not able to exert himself in any way and is unconscious.

STEP 2: RACE #

In TRG, race holds significant importance, serving as a foundation for character creation and shaping the character's journey. It intertwines biology and culture, blending them into distinct racial traits. However, the malleability of both biology and culture, particularly under the influence of powerful magic, allows for diverse manifestations of racial traits. As a result, even among the same race, two individuals can exhibit remarkable differences while still reflecting aspects of their shared heritage and culture. A race's unique traits, rich history, interrelationships with other races, and the culture that emanates from these factors all contribute to the framework of your character, shaping their identity and experiences.

The races available are detailed briefly below and in more detail in Chapter 2: Races & Backgrounds.

Ascendan: There are several ancient races in the world, but none are more mysterious than this unusual and secretive race of humanoids. Sometimes referred to as the first race, or Alphar, the Ascendan are widely believed to be the oldest of the humanoid races.

Dwarf: Dwarves possess unparalleled craftsmanship skills, creating exquisite works of artistry that showcase their remarkable talent. Their deep appreciation for precious stones and metals further enhances their craft. Typically, dwarves choose to reside in proximity to regions abundant with these resources, establishing grand mountain complexes and vast subterranean settlements as their homes.

Elf: Elves have a strong connection with the natural world around them; they strive to always live in harmony with it. Elves see magic as simply another aspect of nature and have a natural flare when it comes to using it. Due to their immortal nature, Elves often wander away from a project that they are working on, only to return to it decades or even centuries later. This aloof attitude is often misunderstood by other races, and as a lack of self-discipline.

Gnome: Gnomes spend their days solving puzzles and mysteries. Knowledge is sought above all else and many members of the race have simply packed up and left their homeland in the pursuit of knowledge. Magic is the pinnacle of all knowledge, so it is not uncommon to find Gnomish spell casters of all sorts. Gnomes can also be quite secretive and generally hide their settlements away from the prying eyes of other races.

Halfling: Halflings are incurable opportunists. They rarely think ahead for more than a few minutes, and their plans more often than not go wrong. They are not the strongest of individuals and have long discovered methods to get around situations without resorting to the use of brute force.

Human: The most widespread of all civilized races are humans, Humans strive to expand, constantly pushing the limits of what they are capable of. Unfortunately, this drive to succeed throws them into sometime hostile situations with other races and other humans.

Kornargon: Once a race a race of humanoids native to the prime plane, this race were exiled for reasons unknown into the Plane of Shadow. They are creatures born into the darkness, but not necessarily creatures of evil. Honour and family are the two most important aspects of Kornargon life, and these are upheld above all other things.

Orc: Aggressive, callous, and domineering. Bullies by nature, they respect strength and power as the highest virtues. On an almost instinctive level, orcs believe they are entitled to anything they want unless someone stronger can stop them from seizing it. Powerfully built, orcs typically stand just a few inches taller than most humans but have much greater muscle mass, their broad shoulders and thick, brawny hips often giving them a slightly lurching gait. They typically have dulled green skin, coarse dark hair, beady red eyes, and protruding, tusk-like teeth. Orcs consider scars a mark of distinction and frequently use them as a form of body art.

Be aware that any size modifiers to ability scores and hit points are included in the above values.

STEP 3: BACKGROUND #

Your background helps mould your character further and provides an insight into your early experiences. Although every character has a class, there are a myriad of ways that you can progress throughout your career. A background expands your choices and adds unique abilities which further individualise your character.

When you create your character at 1^st level you select one background of your choice. Once your background selection is made, it cannot be amended at higher levels so choose wisely. Your selected background will grant you a bonus feat, a +1 class bonus to three specific skills and a specialist skill.

Some backgrounds may also offer additional abilities which will be detailed in their descriptions.

Backgrounds are explored in more detail in Chapter 2: Races & Backgrounds.

STEP 4: CHARACTER CLASS #

A character's class represents their skillset and core abilities. Your class will determine what skill groups you specialise in, what class feats you have access to and any other abilities. As you gain experience points (XP) for defeating monsters, roleplaying and overcoming various obstacles you will progress in level, gaining new powers and abilities.

LEVEL

Your level measures your overall power on a scale of 1 to 20 (and possibly beyond) and helps the GM determine appropriate challenges for you and your party. Most campaigns begin at level 1 with each Player Character possessing 10,000 Experience Points (XP).

It is assumed that starting characters would have already gained a certain level of expertise just by achieving level 1 in their class.

Some games may start at a higher level, in which case each character should start with the same amount of XP (determined by the GM).

As you complete adventures your total XP rises. Each time your total XP reaches the amount needed for the next level it goes up by 1 and you gain all of the benefits shown on the Level Table (see below). At this time, you also gain any new benefits associated with your character class for progressing a level.

Levelling requires a brief period to reflect and train. You may generally only do so between adventures and during Downtime.

The Level Table details several key abilities for your character.

Total XP: The amount of experience points required to achieve the indicated level.

Class Bonus: This bonus is added to any class skills that you have.

Ability Increase: At 3^rd level and then every three levels thereafter, you may increase any one of your ability scores by +1.

Be aware that you may not increase the base value of an ability score above 6 with ability score increases.

Feats: This is the number of feats you may choose from either general or specialist feats for your class.

Classes are explained in more detail in Chapter 3: Classes.

Players are usually given free rein to decide which class to pick. This may vary dependent upon the type of game that your GM is running. The race that you have picked will also have some bearing upon the class that you pick. Each character class belongs to one of three categories. These categories are Adept, Expert and Martial.

STEP 5: SKILL RANKS #

Skill ranks are bought and improved with points granted by classes. You may buy ranks in any skill, but certain skills are class skills and gain the class bonus.

Each rank costs 1 skill point. The maximum number of ranks that you may have in any one skill is equal to your level.

Be Aware that if you cannot spend all your skill points when you gain a level, excess points are wasted and cannot be carried over.

Skills are explained in more detail in Chapter 4: Skills & Actions

STEP 5: FEATS #

You must now make a note of any feats that you have gained from your race, background and class.

All racial bonus and background feats are added to your character automatically. You must also select one unique racial feat.

Your character class will then assign several additional feats which are added automatically. Any further feats which you may select must be picked from those available to you from your racial feats, general feats or class feats.

You will gain at least one additional feat each time you gain a level of experience. These again must be selected from those available to you.

STEP 6: FINAL TOUCHES #

There are a few other tasks which you must complete before your character is ready to go.

SAVING THROWS

Generally, when you are subject to an unusual or magical attack, you get a saving throw to avoid or reduce the effect. Like an attack roll, a saving throw is a d20 roll plus a bonus based on your training, and an associated ability score.

Your saving throw modifier is:

Base save bonus + ability modifier + other modifiers

SAVING THROW TYPES

The three different kinds of saving throws are Fortitude, Reflex and Will:

Fortitude

These saves measure your ability to stand up to physical punishment or attacks against your vitality and health. Apply your Constitution modifier to your Fortitude saving throws.

Reflex

These saves test your ability to dodge area attacks and unexpected situations. Apply your Dexterity modifier to your Reflex saving throws.

Will

These saves reflect your resistance to mental influence as well as many magical effects. Apply your Wisdom modifier to your Will saving throws.

STARTING GEAR

Your character begins play with equipment relative to his background. It would be assumed that most characters would begin play with relevant gear and items.

If you would prefer to purchase gear, you start with ana mount of lions (gold pieces) as determined in chapter 6.

OTHER DETAILS

You need to determine your starting initiative, hit points, defence, attack bonus, power points, conviction and personal details.

Initiative

Your initiative score is a major factor in determining how quickly you act in combat.

Your initiative modifier is:

Dexterity x5 + Wisdom x5 + Other Modifiers

Hit Points

Hit Points (HP) allow you to resist physical punishment and direct damage.

Your hit points are determined as follows:

Size Modifier + Con (per level) + Class Mod (per level) + Other Modifiers.

Defence

Your Defence (DB) represents how hard it is for opponents to hit you, the Difficulty for an opponent’s attack roll.

Your defence is determined as follows:

10 + BDB + Dex Bonus + Other Modifiers

Attack Bonus

Your attack bonus (AB) is your ability to hit targets. You must equal or exceed your targets defence with an attack check.

Your attack bonus is determined as follows:

BAB + Str Bonus (or Dex Bonus) + Other Modifiers

Power Points

If you are a spellcaster you will gain an amount of power points (PP) each level which you may use to cast spells.

Your power points are determined as follows:

Race Bonus + Class Bonus + Other Modifiers

Conviction

You begin play with a pool of 1 conviction point. Some characters may gain a bonus to this value.

Languages

You gain languages based upon your race and intelligence score.

Personal Details

Personal details provide specific characteristics that help define your physicality and identity.

Age determines the stage of life you are in, from youthful exuberance to seasoned wisdom.

Weight and height establishes your physical stature, whether you possess a slender or robust build, and your overall presence in the world.

Gender shapes your identity and role in society, influencing how you are perceived and the experiences you navigate.

Together, these personal details add depth and nuance to your character, allowing them to be uniquely envisioned and brought to life within TRG.

CHAPTER 2 - RACES & BACKGROUNDS #

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long shadows over the jagged peaks of the Cragspire Mountains. At the foot of these ancient stones, two figures trudged onward: Skrag, the half-ogre warrior with the strength of a giant, and Lustag, his steadfast Dwarven priest companion. The duo had faced many perils together, but today, their path led them into the depths of a long-abandoned temple, said to hold a relic of great power—a crystal heart that pulsed with the raw energy of Essence, the very life force of the world.

As they approached the crumbling entrance, Lustag tightened his grip on his holy symbol, whispering a quiet prayer to his god. "We tread upon sacred ground, Skrag," he said, his voice a gruff murmur that echoed off the stone walls. "This place has been untouched for centuries. The spirits here may not welcome intruders."

Skrag nodded, his enormous frame almost blocking the fading light as he peered into the darkened interior. "Then we ask permission, Lustag," he rumbled, his voice low but respectful. "If the spirits wish us harm, we will not stay long."

Together, they stepped inside. The air was thick with the scent of dust and old stone, and the silence was broken only by the drip of water from the cracked ceiling. They walked cautiously, the echo of their footsteps swallowed by the vastness of the temple's main hall. At its centre stood an ancient altar, covered in moss and entwined with roots that seemed to pulse with the rhythm of a heartbeat.

Skrag approached the altar, his eyes narrowing as he spotted the crystal heart resting atop it. It was a strange object—translucent, but with a swirling core that seemed to glow faintly in the dim light. He hesitated, sensing an unseen force at work. "This must be the heart of the temple," Skrag said, his hand outstretched but not yet touching the relic. "I can feel its Essence."

Lustag stepped forward, his keen eyes studying the crystal. "Aye, but something is amiss," he muttered. He closed his eyes, calling upon his divine connection. The air around him shimmered, and a soft glow enveloped his hands. "There’s a disturbance here, Skrag. The Essence is... tainted. It’s been corrupted."

Before Skrag could respond, the ground beneath them trembled. From the shadows emerged twisted figures, their bodies little more than bone and sinew, animated by dark Essence. They were the temple’s ancient guardians, twisted into undead abominations by the very life force that once gave them peace.

“We are not alone," Skrag growled, drawing his massive war club. The undead charged, their skeletal hands reaching for the intruders. "By the grace of my god, begone!" Lustag shouted, raising his holy symbol high. A pulse of pure Essence burst forth, scattering the nearest abominations. But more kept coming, their eyes glowing with the same corrupted light as the heart on the altar.

Skrag roared, swinging his club in a wide arc, shattering bone and splintering ribs. He fought with a controlled fury, each strike precise and calculated—a testament to the discipline he had learned under Lustag’s guidance. Yet, for every guardian he felled, two more seemed to rise from the cracks in the stone.

"Lustag, the heart! It’s feeding them!" Skrag bellowed, backing toward the altar as the undead pressed closer.

Lustag’s eyes widened with realization. "The crystal has become a conduit for corrupted Essence," he said, his voice grim. "We must sever its connection to the temple, or these creatures will overwhelm us."

Without hesitation, Skrag turned, raising his club high above the crystal heart. "May this bring peace to your temple," he said, then brought the club down with all his might.

The impact shattered the crystal, sending shards flying in every direction. A blinding light erupted from the heart, bathing the temple in a brilliant flash of pure Essence. The undead guardians let out a final, echoing wail before crumbling to dust, their corrupted souls released from their twisted bodies.

For a moment, there was silence. Skrag and Lustag stood panting, their chests heaving as they surveyed the now-empty hall. The tainted energy was gone, replaced by a gentle hum of natural Essence that pulsed through the air like the beating of a great heart.

"You did it, Skrag," Lustag said quietly, placing a hand on his companion’s arm. "You brought peace to this place."

Skrag shook his head, lowering his weapon. "No, Lustag. We did it together, as we always have."

The two turned and made their way back toward the temple entrance. As they stepped into the fading light of dusk, Lustag paused, looking up at Skrag with a rare smile. "You know, for a brute, you’ve got a surprising amount of grace," he teased.

Skrag laughed, a deep, rumbling sound that echoed across the mountains. "And for a grumpy old dwarf, you’ve got a soft heart," he retorted.

Together, they descended the steps of the forgotten temple, leaving behind a place that was no longer haunted by corruption. The story of Skrag and Lustag, the half-ogre warrior and the Dwarven priest, would spread once again—another chapter in the legend of two unlikely heroes whose bond transcended race, defied expectation, and proved that friendship is the greatest source of power the world has ever known.

Their tale, like the Essence itself, was a reminder that life’s true strength lies in unity, and that together, even the most improbable allies can bring light into the darkest of places.

RACES #

From the ancient and noble elves to the stout and resilient dwarves, the races within these pages are designed to inspire your imagination and provide a wide array of options for character creation and role-playing. Each race offers a unique blend of rich history, distinctive abilities, cultural traditions, and physical traits. Whether you’re captivated by the elegance and grace of elvenkind, the clever adaptability of halflings, or the fierce strength of the orcish clans, you’re sure to find a race that aligns with your preferences and playstyle.

During character creation, you’ll choose one race, one heritage, and a background for your character. Each choice defines part of your character’s story, strengths, and role within the world. You’ll also select a number of languages based on your choices. Once your race, heritage, and background are decided, they cannot be changed later. After choosing your race and heritage, you’ll proceed to select a background, which will be detailed further in the next section of this chapter.

RACIAL ENTRIES #

Each entry includes details about the race and presents the rules elements described below.

DESCRIPTION

This entry gives a physical description of the race, weight and height, starting age and lifespan, usual ethics and any relevant cultural details.

ABILITY MODIFIERS

These modifiers are applied directly to your corresponding ability score.

SIZE

This entry lets you know the size of your race. PC races will usually be small, medium or large. Size has a certain impact on the game and potentially limits your use of equipment.

SPEED

This entry lists how far a member of the race can move each time they use an action (such as Stride) to do so.

POWER POINTS

Power points are determined by your character class and a few other factors. These Power Points are what the caster would use to cast any spells that they know. Any modifier is granted as a bonus per level.

LANGUAGES

This tells you the languages that members of the race speak at 1st level. If your Intelligence ability modifier is 5 or higher, you can select more languages from a list given here. More about languages can be found at the end of this chapter.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

Your race may grant you one or more specialist skills. A specialist skill is always considered to be trained and gains an additional +1 bonus.

OTHER ABILITIES

Any other entries in the sidebar represent abilities, senses, and other qualities all members of the race manifest.

HERITAGES

Each race has a number of heritages which reflect its cultural differences and where it grew up. You must select a heritage from those available as part of your race selection.

FEATS

Each race has a selection of feats available to them. As long as you meet the prerequisites, you may select a racial feat at 1^st level. At 5^th level and then every 5 levels thereafter, you may select an additional racial feat. Feats are explored in more detail in Chapter 5.

ASCENDAN #

Among the ancient races of the world, none are as enigmatic as this elusive and secretive lineage of humanoids. Often called the "First Race" or known by the name "Alphar," the Ascendan are widely believed to be the oldest of all humanoid peoples.

The Ascendan are an ancient and mysterious race, believed to have existed since the very dawn of magic in the world. According to legend, they were created by the dragons, who sought to imbue a humanoid race with the raw power to control and shape the arcane forces. The Ascendan were thus born with an innate mastery of magic, able to manipulate the elements and alter reality with ease.

Over the ages, the Ascendan became renowned as the most powerful and revered wielders of magic. They established secluded, hidden cities, choosing to live apart from the other races. Their immortality and unparalleled arcane abilities fostered a sense of superiority, leading them to believe they were distinct from the mortal realm. They built grand libraries and towering spires, dedicating their existence to the study and mastery of the arcane arts.

As centuries passed, the Ascendan became increasingly insular, retreating further into isolation while subtly shaping the world from the shadows. They developed a complex society rich in tradition and ritual, believing that their longevity bestowed upon them a solemn duty to preserve the world’s knowledge and history. In time, they became the guardians of ancient tomes, powerful artifacts, and the lost secrets of ages past.

Despite their immense power, the Ascendan were not invulnerable. They faced countless challenges throughout the centuries—from rogue sorcerers hungry for their power, to fearsome creatures and magical beasts that viewed them as a threat. Yet, the Ascendan always managed to prevail, drawing upon their vast magical knowledge and the wisdom of the ancients to protect themselves and their secrets.

Today, the Ascendan are a dwindling race, with only a few remaining in the world. Many of their once-glorious cities lie in ruins, and their magnificent temples and towers have crumbled with the passing of time. Yet, those who endure still wield formidable power, their mastery of magic unmatched. Their wisdom and knowledge remain highly coveted by those who are aware of their existence. The Ascendan continue to watch over the world from the shadows, using their ancient insights to guide and protect the other races from the hidden dangers that threaten the balance of the realm.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Ascendan males stand around 5' 5" tall, females are slightly shorter. Ascendan are very slim and have a perfect physical build. They usually weigh about 140 lbs.

Ascendan have a slightly golden complexion with large, slightly snake-like eyes.

The Ascendan have no bodily hair, which is believed to be a result of their magical abilities. They were said to have once had hair, but as their magical power grew stronger, it burned away their hair and left them with smooth, hairless skin. They also began to cover themselves in intricate tattoos, which they believed would enhance their magical abilities and provide them with protection against dark magic.

Ascendan typically reach physical adulthood around the age of 70 and will never be seen outside of their cities until they reach this age. Ascendan are immortal.

A starting Ascendan character has an initial age of 80+5d6 years.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Modifiers Str -1, Con -1, Int +2, Cha +2

Size: Medium; Speed: 25 feet Power Points: +1

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: High Tongue, Low Tongue, Wyrmish

Additional Languages: Choose from any other language that is not rare.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain the Ascendan Lore and Dragon Lore specialist skills.

OTHER ABILITIES

Darkvision: You can see in darkness without the need of a light source, though your vision in darkness is in black and white.

Ley Blood: Magic is in your blood, and you have a powerful affinity with it. You gain a +1 racial bonus to all attempts to sense magic. You also gain a +1 racial bonus to Arcana, Occultism and Spellcraft checks.

Arcane Knowledge: You may select any one arcane or ethereal cantrip (PP 0) and add it as an innate spell with the focus trait.

Forbidden Magic: You have absolutely no connection with either divine or verdant magic and cannot cast spells from these traditions. You have a -2 penalty to all saving throws against these traditions of magic and must also make a Will saving throw against beneficial spells of these traditions when cast upon you with a success allowing the spell to affect you normally.

ASCENDAN HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the Ascendan race for your character, you must select one of the below Ascendan heritages. This heritage grants you some unique abilities.

AFELE

Often known as the Archaic, you are a guardian of knowledge and a keeper of the greatest secrets of your race. The tattoos on your body emanate a cool blue colour when you are spell casting.

You have lived amongst tomes and knowledge for your entire life and gain a +1 racial modifier to all Research skill checks. Furthermore, you also gain the Detect Signature specialist spell which you cast using your spellcraft bonus.

Loyalties You are sworn to protect knowledge in all its guises.

CHRONARA

The guardians of the Sky Doors are the highest cast in Ascendan society. When an Ascendan baby is allocated to their caste, they are bathed in the energy of a sky door to determine if this caste is their path in life. Only 2% of Ascendan will be chosen for this path, so you are naturally promoted to the position of leaders of your society. The tattoos on your body emanate a faint green colour when you are spell casting.

You gain the Shifting Step specialist spell which you cast using your spellcraft bonus. You also gain a +2 racial bonus to all Recall Knowledge checks concerning anything with the teleportation trait.

Loyalties The Sky Doors must be protected at all costs.

MENORA

Called Medicai by outsiders, menorah are the masters of the mind and body. You have been trained from a young age in the study of anatomy and how to both manipulate and repair the body. The tattoos on your body emanate a warm red colour when you are spell casting.

You gain a +2 racial bonus to all Treat Wounds (Medicine) checks and may select any one spell with the healing trait which costs one less PP to Warp.

Loyalties All life is sacred, and you will always do your best to avoid bloodshed.

PELORA

The Pelora are often called dragons, due to their close bond with such creatures. You are the warriors and military minds of your people. It is a great honour to be allocated to this caste as you will spend more time away from your people than other members of your race. The tattoos on your body emanate a dim yellow colour when you are spell casting.

You gain a +2 racial bonus to all Power Recovery (Meditation) checks. Furthermore, you also gain the Battle’s Call specialist spell which you cast using your spellcraft bonus.

Loyalties Honour and your word are the most important things to you.

URLOCH

You have lost the golden hue to your skin which has been replaced with a silvery blue tone. You have no tattoos on your body as your connection to the Ascendan source has been lost. You are an outsider, a renegade, or an outcast from Ascendan society, you are Urloch. Not all your kind are evil, but you certainly carry an amount of resentment from your people and feel abandoned or betrayed by them.

When you were a child, no caste called to your being during the testing of the sky door and you were sent away to live as an outcast, forever removed from your society and culture.

You lose the Ley Blood, Arcane Knowledge and Forbidden Magic Ascendan abilities. You gain an additional PP per level and may select any one spell with a maximum PP cost of 2 to add to your repertoire. This spell may be selected from any tradition. Furthermore, when you fumble a spell check, you add a +10 modifier to all fumble rolls.

Loyalties Undermine the efforts of the Ascendan people at all costs.

DWARF #

Dwarves are masterful artisans renowned for creating works of incredible beauty. Their deep appreciation for precious stones and metals fuels their craftsmanship. They often choose to reside near rich veins of these resources, building vast mountain complexes and sprawling underground cities that form massive subterranean settlements.

Living beneath the earth, often in isolation from surface dwellers can sometimes make dwarves seem greedy and secretive and it does take them a long time to trust members of other races. Once you have the trust of a dwarf however, it will take a lot to break this trust. Their language is rarely taught to those of other races and they can go to great lengths to prevent a non-dwarf from teaching it.

Dwarves can come across as grumpy and bad tempered, fond of spouting profanities and complaining about everything.

DESCRIPTION

Dwarf males stand around 4' 5" tall, females are slightly shorter. Dwarves are a very stocky race and once dressed in armour often look wider than they are tall. The sheer denseness of their bodies gives them increase body weight, generally averaging 200 pounds.

Male Dwarves are passionate about their beards and grow them too great lengths. Only male Dwarves have beards. Female Dwarves grow their hair to great lengths and have the same respect for it as a male does his beard.

Dwarves typically reach physical adulthood around the age of 40, though their traditionalist culture places more value on completing coming of age ceremonies unique to each clan than reaching a certain age. A typical dwarf can live to around 350 years old.

A starting dwarf character has an initial age of 38+3d6 years.

Dwarves respect craftmanship, order and stability and any loyalties will be based around such things.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Modifiers Str +1, Con +2, Dex -1, Wis +1, Cha -1 Size: Medium; Speed: 20 feet Power Points: 0

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Dengaris, Low Tongue Additional Languages: Choose from any common language and Gaian.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain Dwarven Lore and Stone Lore specialist skills.

OTHER ABILITIES

Darkvision: You can see in darkness without the need of a light source, though your vision in darkness is in black and white.

Hardy: Due to their natural resistances, dwarves receive +2 racial bonus on saving throws against poison and magic.

Lead Boots: Dwarves make terrible swimmers and as a result of this suffer a -4 racial penalty to all swim checks.

DWARVEN HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the dwarf race for your character, you must select one of the below dwarven heritages.

AZGAR

Known to surface dwellers as Fire Dwarves, the Azgar inhabit blazing deserts or volcanic chambers beneath the earth. Azgar have a remarkable adaptation to hot environments from ancestors who once dwelled in the elemental plane of fire. This grants you Fire Resistance and you treat environmental heat effects as if they were one step less extreme (incredible heat becomes extreme, extreme heat becomes severe, and so on).

DENGAR

Often referred to as Hill Dwarves, the Dengar are the most widespread members of the dwarven race. Although they live under the earth in great mountain complexes, all of their settlements have surface entrances and waypoints. The hardy Dengar are famed crafters and are sought after for their construction skills.

You also gain an additional crafting specialty. You gain advantage on all checks made with this speciality.

MORGAR

The noble Morgar live in high mountainous cities and are said to have the blood of giants coursing through their veins. Taller than most Dwarves the Morgar cannot grow hair from the heads but have very elaborate beards. The Morgar are often referred to as Mountain Dwarves.

Due to your honourable nature, you gain advantage on all Detect Deception (Sense Motive) checks. Furthermore, you are always considered to be trained when using the noblest of dwarven weapons those of the axe and hammer weapon groups.

STORGAR

It is strongly believed that the Storgar have the blood of earth elementals coursing through their veins. Storgar, generally live amongst other dwarven heritages but have distinctive brown skin and jet-black hair.

Your DR is increased by 1 due to your tough skin. Furthermore, you gain a +2 racial bonus to all checks to resist being shoved or moved involuntarily. Unfortunately, your attachment to the earth also forces you to make a DC 5 flat check when any friendly spell with the movement trait is cast upon you. If you fail this check, the spell does not work.

THENGAR

Your skin is ashen and your hair darker than other dwarves. The Thengar have long since inhabited the darker depths of the earth, acting as protectors of ancient tombs and burial sites. Thengar live in small family settlements, each dedicated to the defence of such a location.

You have Essence Resistance and gain a +1 racial bonus to your DB and Saving Throws against the attacks of creatures of the Undead Type.

ELF #

Elves share a deep bond with the natural world, always seeking to live in harmony with their surroundings. To them, magic is simply another facet of nature, and they possess an innate talent for wielding it. Due to their immortal lifespan, elves often set aside projects for decades or even centuries, returning to them when inspiration strikes once more. This tendency to drift away is often misinterpreted by other races as a lack of focus or discipline.

As a result of their close bonds and keen sensitivity to nature, elves are often reserved and retain their secrets within their kinship groups and groves. This closeness to nature often makes forming lasting relationships with outsiders all the more difficult. They are blessed with immortal life and yet often see this as a curse, especially in their interactions and friendships with non-elves.

DESCRIPTION

Elves average 6' 2" tall, with females of the race ranging only a few inches shorter (racial variants also dictate this). All have very lithe forms with Elven males weighing around 120 pounds. Elves have swept back ears which top off in delicate points. Other than the hair which grows from their heads, Elves have no body hair. All Elves have chiselled features, and this combined with the thinness of their bodies often makes them seem delicate. Their eyes are wide and almond-shaped, featuring large and vibrant-coloured pupils that make up the entire visible portion of the eye. These pupils give them an alien look and allow them to see sharply even in very little light.

Elves reach physical adulthood around the age of 20, though they aren’t considered to be fully emotionally mature by other elves until closer to the passing of their first century. They are the longest lived of all the races, Elves are immortal and it is difficult for a member of another race to determine their age. It is said that Elves eventually tire of life and drift away from the mortal realms.

A starting elf character has an initial age of 108+4d6 years.

Elven loyalties are often directed towards nature and chaotic ideals.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Modifiers Dex +1, Con -1, Int +1 Size: Medium; Speed: 30 feet Power Points: +1

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Aelvish, Low Tongue

Additional Languages: Choose from any common language, Faechant and Gaelic.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain Elven Lore as a specialist skill.

OTHER ABILITIES

Fey Blood: Your powerful link to the fey grants you advantage to all saving throws made against sleep magic.

Immortal: You do not age and gain advantage on all saving throws made against disease. You don’t need to sleep and will gain the benefits of a night’s rest simply by entering a trance state for 4 hours.

Keen Senses: You have superior senses that grant you a special +1 racial bonus to your Perception Skill.

Nightvision: You can see in dark areas and with a small amount of light can see well.

ELVEN HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the elf race for your character, you must select one of the below elven heritages. This heritage grants you some additional abilities.

DRELVARNI

Not all elves believe in the protection of nature and the purity of their souls. The Drelvarni believe in advancement of the elven race and can only be described as supremacists. Few exist, but those that do are a constant thorn in the side to the other Elven people. Drelvarni tend to have jet black hair and very pale skin.

Known as a Shadow Elf, you are not necessarily evil, just more selfish than others of your kind. You gain a +1 racial bonus to Constitution.

Loyalties Unlike other elves, your loyalties are more likely to concern subjects other than nature.

ELARNI

Known as Sun Elves to other races, your people hail from the humid parts of the world such as deserts and jungles. Living under the intense heat and humidity grants the Elarni a single-minded purpose not often seen by other elves, as this environment can be quite harsh. Elarni wear their thick black hair in tight braids and dreadlocks, have dark brown skin tones and green or blue eyes.

This grants you incredible resilience to warm environments. You gain Fire Resistance and gain advantage to all Subsist (Survival) checks.

NOLDORNI

When humans and other races think of elves, the Noldorni or Star Elves are usually what they imagine. Slightly taller than others of your race and always having blonde hair and striking blue eyes, they are a perfect elven specimen, although some might say slightly alien.

You are closer to the source than other elves and may select any one arcane or verdant cantrip at 1^st level which you may cast as an innate spell with the focus trait. You also gain a +1 racial bonus to Make an Impression (Diplomacy) checks.

SILVARNI

Known as Wood Elves for their love and defence of the forest and all things natural, these elves prefer to remain deep in the forests, away from humans and other races. Silvarni can be identified by their dark hair, usually black or brown and often have a coppery or green hue to their skin.

You have a love for the forest and ignore all-natural difficult terrain. Furthermore, natural formidable terrain is classed as difficult terrain for you. You also gain advantage to all Stealth checks made whilst in forested terrain (GM discretion).

SINDARNI

To other humanoid races, Sindarni are known as Moon Elves. Unlike other elves, Sindarni have a strong compulsion not only to interact with but reside amongst other humanoid races to fully understand them. Sindarni are slender and graceful with pale, often with an icy blue hue skin colour. They have blue or silvery white hair which is always worn long.

You have an inborn ability to detect and understand magical phenomena. You gain a +1 racial bonus to Cast a Spell (Spellcraft) checks made to cast spells of the Insight school. In addition, you gain a +1 racial bonus to Identify Power and to Decipher Writing of a magical nature.

TOLDERNI

Known as Snow Elves, Tolderni dwell deep in the frozen north and have gained incredible resilience against cold environments. Tolderni prefer to avoid contact with other humanoid races and can be quite aggressive to outsiders. They have pale skin and a mixture of hair and eye colours.

As a Tolderni, your exposure to the frozen terrain grants you Cold Resistance. Furthermore, you gain advantage on all Subsist (Survival) checks.

GNOME #

Gnomes spend their days solving puzzles and mysteries. Knowledge is sought above all else and many members of the race have simply packed up and left their homeland in the pursuit of knowledge. Magic is considered to be the pinnacle of all knowledge, so it is not uncommon to find Gnomish spell casters of all sorts. Gnomes can also be quite secretive and generally hide their settlements away from the prying eyes of other races.

Constantly searching for the next thrill, gnomes constantly wander in search of magical knowledge and other experiences. They have an outlook on life that is sometimes considered random and even dangerous to other races as they will take many risks in pursuit of their goals. Gnomes trace their blood back to their fey roots, but it is clear to see that they also have a link to dwarves, for whom they have a strange affiliation with, often residing in dwarven settlements.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Gnomes are small in stature, standing just over 3 feet in height with a slight build. They are often mistaken for small children.

Gnomes usually have quite pale skin tones, but in reflection have wildly vibrant hair and eye colours. Gnome hair colour ranges from black to vibrant blues and greens. Likewise, their eyes can be a varied display of colours, often with each eye being a different colour.

Gnomes typically reach physical maturity at the age of 40, although their chaotic and wild nature often makes it hard for members of other races to understand this. They are long lived, with a lifespan of between 500 to 600 years.

A starting gnome character has an initial age of 38+4d6 years.

Gnome loyalties can be vary greatly from companionship with a small animal, to adopting an entire city.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Modifiers Str -1, Dex +1, Con +1, Cha +1 Size: Small; Speed: 20 feet Power Points: +1

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Glimbol, Low Tongue, Faechant

Additional Languages: Choose from any common language and Gaelic.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain Fey Lore & Gnome Lore as specialist skills.

OTHER ABILITIES

Detect Magic: You have the innate ability to detect the presence of active magic and gain a +2 racial bonus to all Sense Magic (Power Manipulation) checks. Additionally, you may develop the Power Manipulation skill without meeting its normal requirements and may make Sense Power checks untrained.

Gnome Resistance: Your connection to the fey grants you the ability to shrug off magic better than others. You may use a reaction when targeted by a spell to gain advantage to the saving throw.

Be aware that this ability does not apply to area effect spells.

Nightvision: You can see in dark areas and with a small amount of light can see well.

GNOME HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the gnome race for your character, you must select one of the below heritages. This heritage grants you some additional abilities.

FURINI

The Furini live deep within forests amongst the mysterious fey. They are rarely seen in the realms of other races and prefer to live in quiet isolation practicing their magic and studies with an almost fevered dedication.

Due to the strength of your fey blood, you gain the fey trait, in addition to the gnome and humanoid traits. You may choose one spell school. You gain a +1 racial bonus to Cast a Spell (Spellcraft) checks made from this school and reduce all its warping PP costs by 1 (min 1).

NERINI

The appearance of a Nerini is vastly different to other gnomes. Their hair is always black; they have very pale skin and sport braided beards. They live in small settlements, often integrated with other gnomes or halflings. The Nerini have long since separated from their fey origins and seek to find inspiration to the questions through more divine means.

You gain Essence Resistance. Furthermore, your Cha & Wis racial modifiers are swapped around (Wis +2 & Ch 0) and you gain a +2 racial bonus to the Religion skill. Unfortunately, your links to the realm of fey are severed and this means that you can never be an ethereal or verdant spell caster and your Death State is reduced by 1.

SORINI

The Sorini have long since integrated with other races there small communities thriving within them.

The influx of greater input and knowledge from these different races and cultures has finely attuned your senses.

You gain a scent as a secondary sense. This means you can use your sense of smell to determine the exact location of a creature. The GM will usually double the range if you're downwind from the creature or halve the range if you're upwind. In addition, you gain a +1 racial bonus to Perception checks.

SVIRNI

The Svirni have live underground close to the borders of the fade. They are devoid of body hair and very suspicious of surface dwellers. Svirni can often be found living in dwarven settlements.

Due to your many years underground, your vision has adapted and you gain Darkvision. Additionally, you gain advantage on all Create (Varies) checks.

TIRVNI

The Tirvni are the most common species of gnome in the world. They live in small settlements on the fringes of human society, often close to woodland areas. Tirvni are friendly and welcoming to strangers, always curious and keen to make new friends.

The fey blood still runs within you, and you may select a spell of up to 2 PP (ethereal or verdant) and cast it as an innate spell with the focus trait.

HALFLING #

Halflings are incurable opportunists. They rarely think ahead for more than a few minutes, and their plans more often than not go wrong. They are not the strongest of individuals and have long discovered methods to get around situations without resorting to the use of brute force.

Halflings are joyful and happy by nature, always seeing the good in every situation. They enjoy savouring the simple things in life such as a fine ale or a sweet pipe weed. They often avoid notice in the worlds of larger folk which suits them just fine. While many halflings do not have the ambition to leave their hearths and join a crusade or adventure, some prefer trouble to the mundane day to day of normal life.

Halflings like to eat and drink and will always be looking for the next meal or refreshment break. Add to this a lust for sharing and hearing tales of great adventure, means that it is unsurprising to find so many halflings in and around inns and taverns.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Halflings are small humanoids who look vaguely like small human children, but their larger hands and feet usually make this confusion rare. They rarely grow to be more than 3 feet in height. Halfling proportions vary but they rarely weigh more than about 70 lbs.

Most halflings have a ruddy complexion and dark or red hair. They cannot grow true beards but excel at long sideburns. Halflings shun the wearing of shoes and prefer to walk barefoot; this leads to rough calloused soles on their feet over time.

Halflings reach physical adulthood around the age of 20. A typical halfling can live to be around 150 years old.

A starting halfling character has an initial age of 18+2d4 years.

Halflings value friendship and family above all other things (well perhaps accept food, ale and pipe weed), thus their loyalties will usually reflect such things.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Modifiers Str -1, Dex +2, Con +1, Cha +1

Size: Small; Speed: 20 feet

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Munblish, Low Tongue

Additional Languages: Choose from any common language.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain Halfling Lore as a specialist skill.

OTHER ABILITIES

Extremely Nimble: Being nimble and light on your feet, you gain a +2 racial bonus to all Balance (Acrobatics) and Sneak (Stealth) checks.

Foolhardy: Your natural curiosity often lands you in trouble but also grants you an uncanny resistance against fear. You gain advantage to all fear-based saving throws.

Sure Shot: You have a keen eye when attacking with all types of ranged weapons. You gain a +1 racial bonus to all bow and sling attack checks.

HALFLING HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the halfling race for your character, you must select one of the below heritages. This heritage grants you some additional abilities.

DUR-FOD

Often referred to as dark foot or dark feet halflings, Dur-fod live away from other halflings and make their homes in tunnels and caves, rarely venturing out in the day. Dur-fod are far more suspicious of other races than usual for halflings and try to avoid them as much as possible. There are even rumours of savage cannibalistic Dur-fod living in the dark places of the world.

You gain Nightvision and a +1 racial bonus to Perception skill checks.

GUL-FYR

Although rare, upon occasion a halfling will be born to one of the other heritages bearing the touch of sorcery. It is unknown how such halflings come into being, but their presence cannot be dismissed. These halflings, sometimes called magic fellows, possess some innate skill with magic which is unknown to others of their kind.

You may select any one arcane cantrip and cast it as an innate spell with the focus trait. You also gain an additional PP each level. Furthermore, you reduce your Con racial modifier by 1 to 0 but gain a +1 racial modifier to your Int.

LYS-FOD

Often referred to as light foot or light feet halflings, Lys-fod are the most common halflings in the world. Lys-fod can be found living in human communities as well in small villages of their own. Lys-fod possess a true sense of wanderlust and love to become involved in the dealings of others.

You gain two additional languages of your choice, chosen from among the common and uncommon languages available to you, and if you take the Linguist feat, you gain another new language. Furthermore, you receive a +1 racial bonus to the Culture skill.

STOUT-FYR

Often referred to as stout fellow halflings, Stout-fyr love nothing more than to tend to their crops and animals. It is rare that a Stout-fyr will leave their village for any reason, but when they do, they are solid dependable folk.

You gain advantage on all saving throws against effects with the mental trait. Additionally, you gain a +1 per level bonus to HP.

TALL-FYR

Out of all of the halflings, Tall fyr, sometimes called tall fellows are the closest to resemble humans. Tall-fyr resemble human children and are often mistaken as such. Unfortunately, being able to pass off as human children so easily has opened doors of opportunity for these halflings that are often closed to others, and they often find themselves running street gangs and such.

You gain advantage to all Bluff (Deception) and Make an Impression (Diplomacy) checks.

HUMAN #

The most widespread of all civilized races are humans, Humans strive to expand, constantly pushing the limits of what they are capable of. Unfortunately, this drive to succeed throws them into sometime hostile situations with other races and other humans.

Humans are widely regarded as the most versatile and yet volatile of races. They form great communities of learning and knowledge as well as those capable of great destruction and bloodshed. Whereas other races have a clear definition or purpose, humans seem to have none.

Humans can be found in all environments from arctic to desert, mountains to shadowlands, you will discover their presence everywhere. Some form mighty empires and kingdoms, driven to explore and conquer, whereas others are simply satisfied to raise crops and families in a simple life.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Humans' physical characteristics are as varied as the world's climes. Humans have a wide variety of skin and hair colours, body types, and facial features. Generally speaking, their skin has a darker hue the closer to the equator they or their ancestors lived.

Humans reach physical adulthood around the age of 15, though mental maturity occurs a few years later. A typical human can live to be around 90 years old. Humans often intermarry with people of other ancestries, giving rise to children who bear the traits of both parents.

A starting human character has an initial age of 14+1d6 years.

Humans are so varied and different to each other that their loyalties can cover just about anything.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Size: Medium; Speed: 25 feet Power Points: +0

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Low Tongue, One Regional Language

Additional Languages: Choose from any common language.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain lore based upon your ethnicity. This is either a lore based upon people (Hill Man Lore) or one based upon your heritage (Urban Lore).

OTHER ABILITIES

Skilled: Humans have far more varied cultures and upbringings than the members of other races. Your ingenuity grants you an additional skill point each level.

Versatile: Your natural versatility allows you to select two ability scores at 1^st level, granting each a +1 racial modifier.

Bonus Feat: Humans may select an additional racial feat and an additional general feat at 1^st level.

HUMAN HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the human race for your character, you must select one of the below heritages. This heritage grants you some additional abilities.

ARCTIC

You have grown up amongst the people of the frozen north. Scraping out an existence in such a harsh environment is all that you have ever known. Your people may have been herders, hunters or fisherman, living in small communities amongst the tundra or icy coasts. It was often a nomadic life as you followed the migrations of animals. Living in such a harsh environment has taught you how to survive.

You gain advantage on all Subsist (Survival) checks and increase your Death State by 1. Furthermore, you gain +1 racial bonus to your Constitution ability score.

CITY

You are from a city or large town. You like to think that you’re more civilized and refined than those living outside of it. You tend to be friendly and relatively open-minded, as you’re accustomed to dealing with strangers and more exposed to different worldviews and ideas. However, ancient grudges and old enmities are hard to forget, so you might hold some prejudice against the dwellers of a neighbouring town, or foreigners from a certain land.

You gain the Skill Focus general feat and may add a +1 racial bonus to your Charisma ability score.

DARK

You have grown up in the deep dark places of the world. You may have lived in a small mining community; or in an extensive, intricate warren, sprawling beneath the earth’s surface; or maybe in great halls and fortresses, carved into the side of hills or mountains. In any case, you had little contact with people outside of your community, having spent much of your life without ever seeing the light of the Sun.

You gain Nightvision and may add a +1 racial bonus to your Wisdom ability score.

DESERT

To you, the most inhospitable of places was home, the desert. You have had a mostly nomadic upbringing, traveling from one oasis to another to replenish water supplies and trade goods. You were taught how to defend yourself and survive in the outdoors from a very young age. Desert folks are known for their fiery and passionate temperament, as well as for the great importance they give to oaths and promises, be it for good or ill. As the old saying goes “the Desert never forgets, and never forgives”

You gain a +1 racial bonus to Constitution ability score. Furthermore, you gain advantage on all Subsist (Survival) checks.

FEY

Members of the Fey Culture are the descendants of those who used their magical arts to shield their communities from the perils of the mortal world. You lived deep in the forest, in a strange village, hidden on the top of an ancient tree; or in the weird, moonlit halls of an enchanted castle, on islands that seems to appear only when certain conditions are met. They live peaceful, dream-like lives, in what seems an unending succession of feasts, parties, and celebrations. They tend to be unconcerned by the problems of the outside world, unless they menace to threaten the well-being of their idyllic communities.

You gain a +1 racial bonus to your Charisma ability score. Furthermore, you gain +1 Power Point per level.

HILL

You claim the highlands and rugged hilly areas as home. Most of your people were herders or farmers, living in large homesteads, villages, or small fortified clan houses. They tended to be rough, unsophisticated people. You’re wary of strangers, but love to sing and dance, and have a penance for theatrical gestures. In fact, skalds and minstrels are sacred amongst your people, who regard them as keepers of their traditions and messenger from the Spirits.

You gain a +1 racial bonus to Constitution. Additionally, you gain advantage on all Climb (Climbing) checks.

NOBLE

You were born to privilege and education, hailing from a family of lesser or greater noble bloodline. Your family are landed gentry and have some influence in the area that you were raised. To the common folk, the life of a noble seems one of idyllic luxury but growing up as a noble or member of the aspiring gentry, you know the reality: a noble’s lot is obligation and intrigue. Whether you seek to escape your duties by adventuring or to better your station, you have traded silks and pageantry for an adventurer’s life.

You gain a +1 racial bonus to Charisma. Additionally, you gain advantage on all Recall Knowledge (Culture) checks based upon your local area.

NORTHMAN

You are not sure where your family come from and probably have little interest. Going back several generations, your people broke away from civilised lands away from the political backstabbing of society. They formed small villages and learnt to earn their living from the land, hunting, warring with other clans and some trading. You value self-independence and survivalism but also honesty, traditions and freedom.

You gain advantage on all Demoralise (Intimidate) checks. Furthermore, you gain +1 racial bonuses to your Strength ability score.

PASTORAL

You originate from a small rural community such as a farmstead or village. Your people are peaceful simple folk who enjoy nothing more than a tale and a pint at the end of a long day toiling in the fields. With a strong back and an understanding of seasonal cycles, you tilled the land and tended crops. For whatever reason you have left your peaceful life. Your farm could have been razed by invaders, you could have lost the family tying you to the land, or you might have simply tired of the quiet life, but at some point, you became an adventurer.

You advantage on all checks that involve, crops, raising animals and weather cycles. Furthermore, you gain +1 racial bonus to your Constitution ability score.

PLAINS

You have always been accustomed to wide open spaces and vast steppe lands. Your people may have gathered in small, fortified towns atop low hills, or simply have wandered the plains in search of food and glory. You were born to the saddle and know your way around a horse or potentially other steed.

You gain advantage on all checks that involve a mount. Furthermore, you gain +1 racial bonuses to your Dexterity ability score.

TRIBAL

Your people are viewed as primitive by others. They reside deep in the wilderness as a small band of semi-nomadic tribes. The shamans guided you from an early age and spoke of great things that you were destined to achieve. You may have elaborate tattoos upon your body and ritual scarring. These tattoos carry great significance to you as they represent your rite of passage.

You gain a +1 racial bonus to Wisdom. Additionally, select either Arcana, Nature, Occultism or Religion, you gain advantage to all Recall Knowledge checks made with the selected skill regarding ancient lore.

KORNARGON #

The origin of this ancient race is truly lost in the shadows. It is believed that once they were human but now they are something very different. Kornargon display the Shadow Plane's ancient influence through monochrome complexions, glowing eyes, and the casting of supernatural shadows.

The Kornargon were once humans who were banished to the plane of shadow as punishment for a crime committed by their ancestors. Over time, they adapted to their new environment, becoming skilled at navigating the shadows and developing unique abilities that set them apart from their human counterparts.

The Kornargon have a deep reverence for honour and hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct. They believe that their actions are a reflection of their character, and that upholding their code of honour is more important than personal gain or glory. They value loyalty, honesty, and courage above all else and consider it a great dishonour to go back on one's word or to betray the trust of others.

The Kornargon are known for their martial prowess, with a unique fighting style that emphasizes grace, speed, and precision. They have a complex social hierarchy, with the most honourable and skilled warriors holding the highest positions of power.

To outsiders, the Kornargon may seem mysterious and enigmatic, but those who earn their trust and respect will find them to be steadfast allies. While they are often feared for their abilities and their strict code of honour, those who take the time to understand them will find that their loyalty and sense of duty are unmatched.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

The Kornargon are tall and lean, with slender limbs and fingers that are suited for grasping and climbing in the shadowy terrain of their plane. Their skin is pale, devoid of pigment, and is highly reflective, giving them an eerie, otherworldly appearance. They have piercing white eyes and their hair is typically thick and curly, and ranges from black to a deep, midnight blue.

A starting Kornargon character has an initial age of 18+1d6 years but their lifespan is unknown.

Kornargon still hang to the honour of their pasts and often have loyalties which reflect this.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Mods Dex +1, Con +1, Wis -1

Medium; Speed: 25 feet Power Points: 0

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Nyxian, Low Tongue

Additional Languages: Choose from any common language.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain Kornargon Lore and Shadow Lore as a specialist skills.

OTHER ABILITIES

Darkvision: You can see in darkness without the need of a light source, though your vision in darkness is in black and white.

Skilled in Shadow: You have a knack for all things planar and shadowy. You gain a +1 racial bonus to the Planes and Stealth skills.

Shadow Stance: You gain the shadow stance ability (see below).

SHADOW STANCE

OPEN STANCE

Action 1 AP

When you enter this stance, you gain the concealed condition until the beginning of your next turn. At the beginning of each turn, whilst in the stance if you make a successful Sneak (Stealth) check that moves you a minimum distance of 10 feet, your concealed condition reactivates until the beginning of your next turn.

KORNARGON HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the Kornargon race for your character, you must select one of the below heritages. This heritage grants you some additional abilities.

ERUI-IAR

When others of your kind remained in the plane of shadow attempting to scrape out a living, your people fought their way back to the material plane. You were forced to live on the outskirts of other civilisations, but managed to survive, nonetheless.

You lose the Wis penalty that other members of your race gain and also gain advantage to all Recall Knowledge (Culture) checks.

GALAD-IAR

Your people severed ties with the plane of shadow and have made their homes in the brighter planes of existence. You are often called the Bright Ones as you have a light not possessed by other members of your race.

You emit dim light within 5 feet of you. You can activate or suppress this ability as an action, which has the concentrate trait. Additionally, you can force fragments of your shadow to glow and cast dancing lights and light as ethereal cantrips using your spellcraft bonus.

OSP-IAR

Your people fled the plane of shadow in an attempt to find safer homes. Whether this plan failed or succeeded is a question for the scholars, but they eventually settled in the ethereal plane.

You gain a +1-circumstance bonus to locate undetected creatures within 60 feet when using the Search action. Furthermore, you increase the targets flat check to avoid being hit when concealed or hidden by 2.

TOVON-IAR

Your people live in the deepest and most treacherous regions of the shadow plane. You cast a deeper shadow than others of your kind.

You gain cold & essence resistance when you select this heritage.

ORC #

To laugh is to taunt, to cry is to perish, to fight is to kill. Orcs more than any other of the core races live for combat and battle. They are born with the desire to kill and reap havoc upon their enemies (and each other). Tests of strength and brutality often cut their lives short, but what glorious and bloody lives they lead.

Orcs will often have difficulty working with others and have a hard time finding acceptance within non-orcish communities, many of which will at some point suffered at the hands of an orcish raid. If an orc can overcome these obstacles, their natural fighting prowess and loyalty can prove to become a boon for any village or town.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Orcs are physically bigger and broader than humans often reaching heights of over 7 feet and weights of up to 300 lbs. Orcs have heavy brows and jaws, often stooping when they move and stand, bringing their eye level down to that of the average humanoid. They often bare protruding fangs and wear scars, tattoos and tribal piercings with pride.

Orcs have very rough skin, iron like muscular frames and a very thick bone structure, which makes them superbly suited to war and conflict. Orc skin colour is typically green although some orcs have grey or black skin.

A starting orc character has an initial age of 13+1d4 years.

Orc loyalties are usually bloodthirsty and violent in nature.

It is unknown how long an orcs lifespan really is due to their warlike lifestyle. It is possible that they may even be immortal, but no scholar has ever recorded an Orc living more than about 50 years.

RACIAL MECHANICS

Ability Mods Str +2, Dex +1, Con +2, Int -1, Wis -1, Cha -1

Size: Medium; Speed: 25 feet Power Points: -1

LANGUAGES

Core Languages: Sharuk

Additional Languages: Choose from any common language.

SPECIALIST SKILLS

You gain Orc Lore as a specialist skill.

OTHER ABILITIES

Darkvision: You can see in darkness without the need of a light source, though your vision in darkness is in black and white.

Ferocious: Your warlike demeanour grants you a +1 racial bonus to all Melee Attacks and a +1 dodge bonus to DB.

ORC HERITAGES #

Once you have selected the orc race for your character, you must select one of the below heritages. This heritage grants you some additional abilities.

SHARUK-DUR

Your people are often referred to as blood-orcs and are the most common of orcs believing that all blood is sacred. You relish spilling the blood of your enemies and have no fear when losing your own, making you much more resistant to bleeding.

All bleeding damage is considered 1 less for you (you ignore bleed 1) and the flat check to remove bleeding is 2 less.

SHARUK-MAR

You are giants amongst your people standing just over 7 feet tall on average. You are a little dim-witted but quick anger and very aggressive. You are sometimes called black orcs due to the charcoal hue of your skin.

You gain an additional +1 racial bonus to Con.

SHARUK-RIN

Known as bone-orcs, you are the master of night combat and are almost exclusively nocturnal. Many legends of monsters coming in the night and stealing children are accredited to these orcs. You have almost red skin and are a little shorter than other orcs

You are more nimble than other orcs gaining an additional +1 racial Dex modifier but reducing your Str racial modifier by 1. You also gain advantage on all Sneak (Stealth) checks.

SHARUK-XAL

You are one of the rare orc shamans or wise men sometimes known as grey orcs. You were born under a strange moon or during some other portent and have shunned the physical and violent ways (well maybe not completely) of your orcish kin in favour of developing more mystical skills. This has bent your form, and you seem withered and weather-beaten compared to others of your kind.

Your Str and Con racial modifiers are reduced to +1 but you also lose your penalties to Wis and Cha. Furthermore, your racial Power Points are +1 instead of -1 and you gain a +1 racial bonus to Spellcraft checks.

BACKGROUNDS #

Every character that you create will have a different upbringing and origin which is determined by their background selection. Many legendary heroes began life as a humble merchant or grew up as the son of a tavern owner, practicing that trade until their family were killed by a giant raid. Your background pick will help flesh out your characters early life, from birth to wherever they are now. It is possible that your character is still an active member of the selected background.

When you create your character at 1^st level you select one background of your choice. Once your background selection is made, it cannot be amended at higher levels so choose wisely. Your selected background will grant you a bonus feat, a +1-class bonus to up to three skills and a specialist skill.

Some backgrounds may also offer additional abilities which will be detailed in their descriptions.

ACOLYTE

You grew up living in a monastery or other religious enclave. You have left that life behind you but may still have ties to members of the religion that you once lived amongst.

BONUS FEAT

Theologian

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Religion, Meditation

SPECIALIST SKILL

Religious Doctrine

ACROBAT

You have grown up earning your pay by performing as an acrobat. Maybe the work dried up, or perhaps something else drove you away from your home town…

BONUS FEAT

Sure Feet

SKILL BONUSES

Acrobatics, Athletics, Perform

SPECIALIST SKILL

Circus Lore

ANIMAL FRIEND

You have always had a natural connection with animals and have spent many hours training them. As you travel you befriend many animals.

BONUS FEAT

Animal Affinity

SKILL BONUSES

Handle Animal, Nature, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Animal Lore

APPRENTICE

You were an apprentice to a craftsman. You may have been an apprentice to a blacksmith, tailor or some other specialist profession. For whatever reason, you were unable to continue your apprenticeship and have taken up the life of an adventurer.

BONUS FEAT

Specialist Crafter

SKILL BONUSES

Artistry, Crafting, Culture

SPECIALIST SKILL

Specialist skill related to your specialty

ARCANE APPRENTICE

You were taught lessons of magic by either a mercantile group of arcane casters or by an established member of a magical school.

BONUS FEAT

Magical Crafting

SKILL BONUSES

Arcana, Mental Focus, Power Manipulation

SPECIALIST SKILL

Spell Lore

ARCHAEOLOGIST

You have vast experience of archaeological digs and excavations. Something happened at the last dig that you were on that you will never forget…

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Linguistics, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Archaeology, One Ancient Civilisation Lore

BARBARIAN

You grew up in a harsh wilderness environment as part of a tribal society. You had no choice but to learn to survive from a young age and were taught to hunt, fight and live off the land. You are suspicious of outsiders and most things supernatural.

BONUS FEAT

Toughness

SKILL BONUSES

Athletics, Nature, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Hunting

BARKEEP

You worked in a tavern or maybe even ran one. You learnt how to socialise and read people whilst pulling an excellent pint.

BONUS FEAT

Keen Insight

SKILL BONUSES

Diplomacy, Culture, Sense Motive

SPECIALTY SKILL

Barkeeping

BOUNTY HUNTER

Collecting the bounty on wrongdoers and absconders from the court has trained you in the skills of hunting people. These skills have transferred seamlessly to the life of an adventurer.

BONUS FEAT

Experienced Tracker

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Sense Motive, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Legal Lore

CHARLATAN

You have made your living through lies and deceit. Playing the part of a robbed noble in one town, the veteran war hero in the next or maybe a travelling salesmen selling placebo’s. Your tricks began to dry up and so you now are trying your hand at the career of adventurer…. Or maybe this is just your latest scam!

BONUS FEAT

Silver Tongue

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Deception, Diplomacy

SPECIALIST SKILL

Underworld

COOK

The kitchen was your home throughout your childhood and into early adulthood. Cooking is your first love but for whatever reason, you are unable to work in the kitchens anymore.

BONUS FEAT

Seasoned

SKILL BONUSES

Crafting (Cooking), Culture, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Culinary Lore

CRIMINAL

You grew up with undesirables and criminals. You may have been a member of an organised crime guild or perhaps you were a loner operating on the fringes of society. Regardless, you have left that world behind you in search of adventure.

BONUS FEAT

Canny Smuggler

SKILL BONUSES

Deception, Stealth, Thievery

SPECIALIST SKILL

Underworld

CULTIST

The people that you grew up with were strange by the standards of others but you were always fully immersed in their beliefs. You may have belonged to a group who worshipped dark powers or perhaps one that operated away from the prying eyes of authorities.

BONUS FEAT

Schooled in Secrets

SKILL BONUSES

Deception, Religion, Sense Motive

SPECIALIST SKILL

Lore related to your deity or cult

DETECTIVE

You were affiliated with law enforcement or perhaps solved crimes as an independent investigator. You have left that line of work after something went wrong with your last case.

BONUS FEAT

Streetwise

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Perception, Sense Motive

SPECIALIST SKILL

Law Enforcement

DIPLOMAT

Engaging with foreign dignitaries or acting as an emissary to an enemy power have been your meat and drink through your life. Now things have changed.

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Diplomacy, Sense Motive

SPECIALIST SKILL

Regional Lore

SPECIAL

You begin play with two additional languages

ENTERTAINER

Entertainment is all you have known from a young age. You grew up with a troupe of travelling musicians or actors and you have learnt to entertain crowds.

BONUS FEAT

Flawless Performance

SKILL BONUSES

Acrobatics, Culture, Perform

SPECIALIST SKILL

Bonus Perform Specialty

FARMHAND

You worked the land with plough and scythe, tending crops and livestock. Maybe your farm was destroyed by raiders, or perhaps you simply longed for something more.

BONUS FEAT

Great Fortitude

SKILL BONUSES

Athletics, Culture, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Farmer

FIELD MEDIC

Where the army went, you followed, administering treatments to the wounded as you travelled. Sometimes your skills were called upon in the midst of battle. Regardless, you have learnt both to heal under pressure and something of the logistics of war.

BONUS FEAT

Battle Medic

SKILL BONUSES

Medicine, Sense Motive, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Warfare

FORTUNE TELLER

You can sometimes predict what will happen next and have used this information for either the benefit of your community, or to line your own pockets.

BONUS FEAT

Visions

SKILL BONUSES

Meditation, Perform, Sense Motive

SPECIALIST SKILL

Fortune Telling

GAMBLER

You moved from place to place trying your hand at games of chance. Whether you made good money from this or not, you have left this life behind you, although you still find it difficult to avoid a chance to gamble.

BONUS FEAT

Deft Hands

SKILL BONUSES

Deception, Sense Motive, Thievery

SPECIALIST SKILL

Gambling

GLADIATOR

The thrill of the arena and the applause of the crowd have driven you forward in the past. You have left or escaped the arena to explore and adventure.

BONUS FEAT

Impressive Performance

SKILL BONUSES

Acrobatics, Athletics, Perform

SPECIALIST SKILL

Arena Lore

GUARD

You served the guard of your local settlement. Whether this was out of duty, or the need for income remains to be seen. The skills that you learnt there may still serve you as an adventurer.

BONUS FEAT

Urban Tracker

SKILL BONUSES

Diplomacy, Intimidate, Perception

SPECIALIST SKILL

Law Enforcement

HERBALIST

You are a trained apothecary and have used your skills to maintain the health and wellbeing of your local community. You also know how to gather herbs and medical supplies.

BONUS FEAT

Natural Medicine

SKILL BONUSES

Crafting, Nature, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Herb Lore

HERMIT

The inside of a cave in an isolated area is the first memory that you have. You have always lived apart from others, preferring solitude and your own company. Something has changed however and now you must interact with others to fulfil your goals.

BONUS FEAT

Questionable Source

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Nature, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Specific Terrain Lore

HIGHWAYMAN

You were part of a gang of robbers and bandits, stealing from travellers on the road to make a living. You have left that life behind, but who knows when your past misdemeanours will catch up with you.

BONUS FEAT

Group Coercion

SKILL BONUSES

Deception, Intimidate, Stealth

SPECIALIST SKILL

Specific Terrain Lore

HUNTER

You have hunted animals for their hides and meat for most of your life. This has been a trade for you for many years but now it is time to try something new.

BONUS FEAT

Survey Wildlife

SKILL BONUSES

Nature, Perception, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Hunting

LABOURER

Your life has been hard, with every day a constant grind of physical labour. This life has made you strong and resilient however.

BONUS FEAT

Mettle

SKILL BONUSES

Athletics, Crafting, Mental Focus

SPECIALIST SKILL

Manual Labour

LAY HEALER

You discovered at a young age that you could heal others with a simple touch, often restoring animals and livestock. You learnt some basic medical and herbalist skills to disguise your natural ability to help avoid suspicion.

SKILL BONUSES

Medicine

SPECIALIST SKILL

Herb Lore

SPECIAL

You gain the Lay on Hands specialist spell which you may cast using your spellcraft bonus. You also gain an additional power point.

MARTIAL ARTIST

You attended either an elite school, were part of a monastery or were trained by a master. The skills that you were granted will never leave you as you move on to greater things.

BONUS FEAT

Weapon Focus (Unarmed)

SKILL BONUSES

Acrobatics, Meditation, Mental Focus

SPECIALIST SKILL

Combat Styles

MERCHANT

You have grown up with a family of traders working on either a dusty caravan or in shop. You have picked up many skills during your mercantile life and many of these are useful for adventuring.

BONUS FEAT

Wheeler Dealer

SKILL BONUSES

Culture, Deception, Diplomacy

SPECIALIST SKILL

Trading

MINER

The depths of the earth are what you know and prying precious gemstones or other materials from its rock faces is your trade. Now as an adventurer, you are looking forward to venturing back into the dark depths below.

BONUS FEAT

Favoured Terrain (Underground)

SKILL BONUSES

Crafting, Occultism, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Mining

OUTRIDER

The rush of the wind through your hair as you gallop across the plains is a real rush. You once served as a forward scout for your people, but they are long since gone. Now you look to explore new places, but that rush will never fade.

BONUS FEAT

Born to Ride

SKILL BONUSES

Handle Animal, Perception, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Terrain Lore (Plains)

PRISONER

You have spent a great many years incarcerated for a crime (whether you committed it or not). Now free, you are embracing the life of an adventurer.

BONUS FEAT

Canny Smuggler

SKILL BONUSES

Deception, Intimidate, Stealth

SPECIALIST SKILL

Underworld

SAILOR

You have spent time on a boat or ship and are learned in the ways of the high seas. You may have been a member the navy, a pirate or perhaps simply a merchant.

BONUS FEAT

Sure Feet

SKILL BONUSES

Acrobatics, Athletics, Climbing

SPECIALIST SKILL

Sailing

SCHOLAR

You have spent your time learning all you can from dusty tomes and other sources of knowledge. Eventually your time cooped up in mouldy old libraries has forced you into the outside world to seek answers to your many questions.

SKILL BONUSES

Choose three from either Arcana, Culture, Medicine, Nature, Occultism, Planes, or Religion.

SPECIALIST SKILL

Lore (Choose any 2)

SCOUT

You were a tracker and guide, earning a living by leading travellers on forgotten trails. You have now begun to put these skills to new use with an adventuring party

BONUS FEAT

Experienced Tracker

SKILL BONUSES

Nature, Perception, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Specific Terrain Lore

SERVANT OF NATURE

You were born and raised in the wilderness and have always had a link to all things natural.

BONUS FEAT

Survey Wildlife

SKILL BONUSES

Handle Animal, Nature, Survival

SPECIALIST SKILL

Animal Lore

SOLDIER

You were a professional warrior; whose job it was to protect the peoples of your culture. You might have wanted to break out from the regimented structure of these forces, or you may still belong to your regiment.

BONUS FEAT

Weapon Focus

SKILL BONUSES

Athletics, Culture, Intimidate

SPECIALIST SKILL

Warfare

SQUIRE

You have trained with a knight from a very young age. It has been your responsibility to support them in tourneys and during their adventures by maintaining their gear and animals. You have left your master and now search or your own path.

BONUS FEAT

Quick Donning

SKILL BONUSES

Athletics, Culture Handle Animal

SPECIALIST SKILL

Heraldry

STREET URCHIN

You were born into squalor or have lived there for most of your life. Never knowing where your next meal was coming from you may have begged or ran with street gangs, stealing to survive. You have left this life, hoping to find something better,

BONUS FEAT

Streetwise

SKILL BONUSES

Perception, Stealth, Thievery

SPECIALIST SKILL

Urban Lore

TEMPLAR

You grew up as a member of a faith militant or as a holy warrior trained to defend your church or some other holy ground.

BONUS FEAT

Theologian

SKILL BONUSES

Diplomacy, Religion, Mental Focus

SPECIALIST SKILL

Deity Lore (Specific Deity)

WEAVER

You have always been different to those around you. At a young age you manifested strange abilities which were either kept hidden, or encouraged to grow.

SKILL BONUSES

Meditation, Mental Focus, Power Manipulation

SPECIALIST SKILL

Aberrant Lore

SPECIAL

You may select an ethereal cantrip and cast it using your spellcraft bonus.

LANGUAGES #

In a realm where races, civilizations, and creatures of various origins converge, language is more than a mere tool for expression, it is a key to understanding, connection, and the weaving of narratives.

Within these section, you will discover the languages that shape the vibrant landscapes of your game.

At 1^st level your race determines your beginning languages and determines any additional languages that you may select from having a high Intelligence ability score.

BONUS LANGUAGES

With a positive Intelligence score, you gain an extra number of languages equal to its value. You can select these languages from your character's racial list or from those offered by your region. Furthermore, for every 5 skill ranks you have in the Linguistics skill, you may learn an additional language.

Your GM may allow you to select different languages based upon the campaign.

LANGUAGE TYPES #

Languages in this setting are categorized into the following distinct groups:

COMMON

This group encompasses widely spoken languages that bridge the gaps between different societies and races. Common languages serve as a universal means of communication, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to interact and understand each other. These languages are essential for trade, diplomacy, and cooperation on a broader scale.

UNCOMMON

These languages are less widespread and are often spoken by specific groups or communities. They might be used for specialized knowledge or secretive conversations.

RARE

Rare languages are known by only a select few. They might be ancient or esoteric, and their usage is typically tied to specific cultures, organizations, or planes of existence.

REGIONAL

Languages spoken in certain geographical areas. They are influenced by the culture, history, and interactions of the people living in those regions.

Your GM will determine what regional languages are available based upon.

CHAPTER 3 - CLASSES #

Salinor, the elven mage of Mysthaven, stood as a beacon of ancient wisdom and a guardian of the natural world. His silver hair flowed like moonlight itself, a symbol of his deep connection to the arcane energies that thrummed beneath the earth. The ley lines that coursed through the grove were like the heartbeat of the land, and Salinor had learned to listen to them, to draw upon their power with reverence and care.

On this moonlit night, the tranquil grove became a stage for an unexpected encounter. Khajean, a necromancer steeped in forbidden knowledge, had followed him, lured by the promise of ancient magic and the hope of unlocking its secrets. Their meeting was one of stark contrast: Salinor, a master of life and balance, and Khajean, a seeker of dark truths, each representing a different path in the vast realm of magic.

In the brief, tense exchange that followed, Salinor's voice was firm yet tempered with a quiet compassion. He understood the allure of forbidden power but also knew the ruin it could bring. He offered Khajean a chance to step back from the precipice of darkness, to turn away from the path that led to corruption and decay.

The necromancer, though defiant, was not without a flicker of respect. He retreated, leaving behind a promise that their journeys would cross again. As the shadows swallowed Khajean, Salinor turned back to the ley line's whisper, his heart heavy with the weight of choices yet to be made. The grove fell silent once more, save for the soft hum of ancient magic, a reminder of the fragile balance Salinor had sworn to protect.

CLASSES #

Your character class represents your skillset and core abilities. Your class describes how your apprenticeship and natural inclination influence your starting abilities and also how easy (or difficult) it is for you to develop Skills in various fields of expertise. It is usually a requirement that players design characters whose skills and abilities complement each other mechanically—for example, ensuring your party includes a healer, a combat oriented character, a stealthy character, and someone with command over magic—so you may wish to discuss options with your group before deciding.

Each character class provides you with numerous options, which really allow you to bring your character to life. Maybe you want to play a pious devotee of a deity, determined to end the plague of undead that has enveloped the land. Perhaps a stubborn hammer wielding warrior who loves nothing more than the sound of his weapon crunching his enemies bones. Or maybe a calm and considered master of the magical arts, whose only goal in life is her never ending lust for knowledge. These choices and more will help bring your character to life.

The first part of this chapter provides details of the character classes that you may select. The second part of the chapter concentrates on class feats, including archetype feats.

A character's class represents their skillset and core abilities. Your class will determine what skill groups you specialise in, what class feats you have access to and any other abilities. As you gain experience points (XP) for defeating monsters, roleplaying and overcoming various obstacles you will progress in level, gaining new powers and abilities.

LEVEL #

Your level measures your overall power on a scale of 1 to 20 (and possibly beyond) and helps the GM determine appropriate challenges for you and your party. Most campaigns begin at level 1 with each Player Character possessing 10,000 Experience Points (XP).

It is assumed that starting characters would have already gained a certain level of expertise just by achieving level 1 in their class.

Some games may start at a higher level, in which case each character should start with the same amount of XP (determined by the GM).

As you complete adventures your total XP rises. Each time your total XP reaches the amount needed for the next level it goes up by 1 and you gain all of the benefits shown on the Level Table (see below). At this time you also gain any new benefits associated with your character class for progressing a level.

Levelling requires a brief period to reflect and train. You may generally only do so between adventures and during Downtime.

The Level Table below details a number of key abilities for your character.

Total XP: The amount of experience points required to achieve the indicated level.

Class Bonus: This bonus is added to any class skills that you have.

Ability Increase: At 3^rd level and then every three levels thereafter, you may increase any one of your ability scores by +1.

Be aware that you may not increase the base value of an ability score above 6 with ability score increases.

Feats: This is the amount of feats you may choose from either general or specialist feats for your class.

CLASS ENTRIES #

Players are usually given free rein to decide which class to pick. This may vary dependent upon the type of game that your GM is running. The race that you have picked will also have some bearing upon the class that you pick.

CLASS TYPE

Each character class belongs to one of three categories. These categories are Adept, Expert and Martial.

DESCRIPTION

A brief description explaining what your class’s main purpose is and what its strengths are. Also included is an indication as to what role the class can play in a party of adventurers.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

These are the most commonly helpful ability scores for this class and also one ability score has a minimum requirement.

HIT POINTS

This entry tells you how many Hit Points per level you gain as a member of this class.

PROFICIENCIES

Gives the armour and weapons that the class is trained to use. You may expand upon these by selecting feats and may gain additional proficiencies from race and other options.

CLASS SKILLS

Your class will have a number of skills which gain a special bonus type called a class bonus. Your class bonus is determined by your class level.

SKILL POINTS

This is how many skill points you have to spend on skills each level. You may develop a maximum of 1 rank per level in any skill.

HIT POINTS

This entry will tell you how many hit points your character gains each time you take a level in the class. You also gain an additional amount of hit points each level equal to your Con HP mod and any racial modifiers.

CLASS ABILITIES

Your class will have access to a number of unique special abilities which will be explained here.

MAGICAL TRADITION

If you are a spell caster, a tradition of magic either arcane, divinity, ethereal or verdant will be listed here. If you are not a spell caster, you will still be required to select a magical tradition at 1^st level. Once selected, this tradition cannot be changed so be sure to select wisely.

MAGICAL ABILITY SCORE

If your class has spellcasting abilities, an ability score will be listed here which is added as a modifier to your spellcraft bonus. If your class does not have spellcasting abilities, this section will be left blank and you will gain a modifier to spellcraft based upon the tradition that you pick at 1^st level as follows:

Arcane Int, Divinity Wis, Ethereal Cha, Verdant Con

CLASS SUMMARY TABLE

Each class also has a class table which shows the following information for each class:

BASE ATTACK BONUS

This is your character combat bonus. This value often abbreviated to BAB is used throughout the game to determine a number of other values and is also the bonus you use to make attack checks before modification. This value will be modified by ability scores and various other bonuses when making attacks.

BASE DEFENCE BONUS

This is your character defence bonus. This value often abbreviated to BDB is used throughout the game to determine a number of other values and is added directly to your DB.

FORT

This is your characters base Fortitude saving throw bonus which is added to your Constitution modifier to determine your total Fortitude saving throw. Fortitude saving throws are generally used to resist physical attacks such as death spells, disease and poison.

REF

This is your characters base Reflex saving throw bonus which is added to your Dexterity modifier to determine your total Reflex saving throw. Reflex saving throws are generally used to avoid area spells, breath weapons and traps.

WILL

This is your characters base Will saving throw bonus which is added to your Wisdom modifier to determine your total Will saving throw. Will saving throws are generally used to resist charm spells, fear affects and mental attacks.

BONUS FEATS

Your class will gain additional bonus feats, these feats can be used to select class feats for which you meet the prerequisites.

CASTER LEVEL

This is your class caster level for invoking spells.

POWER POINTS

This is the amount of power points your class receives every level.

BASE SPELLCRAFT BONUS

This is your base spellcraft bonus. Your casting ability score is added to this for spell casting checks. This value is abbreviated to BSB.

BARD #

CLASS TYPE

Adept/Expert

DESCRIPTION

You are a master of artistry, a scholar of hidden secrets, and a captivating persuader. Using powerful performances, you influence minds and elevate souls to new levels of heroics. You might use your powers to become a charismatic leader, or perhaps a counsellor, manipulator, scholar, scoundrel, or virtuoso. While your versatility allows some to consider you a jack-of-all-trades, it’s dangerous to dismiss you as a master of none.

You can jumble and confound your adversaries in equivalent measure. Gifted with both weapons and enchantment, your actual abilities lie in inspiration.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Charisma (min +2), Dexterity, Intelligence

PROFICIENCIES

You are proficient in the use of light armour and shields. You are proficient in the use of all simple weapons, small blades, finesse weapons and the Shortbow.

CLASS SKILLS

Acrobatics, Arcana, Artistry, Culture, Deception, Diplomacy, Intimidate, Linguistics, Nature, Occultism, Perception, Perform, Planes, Power Manipulation, Religion, Sense Motive

SKILL POINTS

8 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

8 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Bard as you advance in levels.

BARDIC PERFORMANCE

Action Free

To you the performance is everything and your magic is often inspired and rewarding. You may use your bardic performance in one of the following ways:

Each time you cast a spell that has the composition trait, you may assign a temporary conviction point to any one of the spells targets (excluding yourself). This conviction point remains for the duration of the spell or until it is expended, whichever comes first.

You may make a Perform skill check in place of a Spellcraft check when casting a spell which has the composition trait.

You may make a Perform skill check in place of a number of social actions including, Aggravate, Create a Diversion, Feint, Encourage, Make an Impression, or Demoralise.

You may use bardic performance an amount of times equal to your Cha +1 each day.

BONUS FEATS

At 5^th level you gain one bonus class feat. You must meet the prerequisites or match the appropriate class traits (Adept, Bard or Expert) for these feats. You then gain an additional class feat at 10^{th level} and then every 5 levels thereafter.

SPECIALIST SPELLS

At 1^st level you may select any two PP 1 Bard Specialist Spells. You may learn additional Bard Specialist Spells by purchasing the Specialist Spell Feat.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You are an ethereal instinctive spell caster. Your key stat for spell casting is Charisma, and you select your Spell Lists from the Ethereal Tradition.

At 1^st level you may select any two PP 2 ethereal spells and add them to your spell repertoire. At 3^rd level and then every two levels thereafter (5^th, 7^th etc) you may select a new ethereal spell and add it your repertoire.

You may cast these spells as long as you meet the casting requirements and do not need to memorise your spells.

At 5^th level and then every two levels thereafter, you may swap any one spell from your repertoire for a new spell.

SONG & DANCE

A bard does not cast spells in the same way as other casters and each spell that you cast is part of a performance. When casting spells you always use one of your perform specialties and this allows you to add your class bonus to all Spellcraft checks and DC’s.

Furthermore, any casting components for spells which you cast are changed to those appropriate for your perform specialty type.

Be aware that this only applies when casting spells using Spellcraft. If you are using Bardic Performance the Class bonus does not apply.

BOOK OF NOTATIONS

As a bard you are constantly scribbling your songs, music and stories down to as you never know when you might need them. You keep a record of all such things and also gather together pieces of magical lore which you can intwine into your performances.

Each day during your daily preparation, you may select any one spell from your repertoire, or any one ethereal spell that you have a scroll for and cast it as a Specialist Spell until the following day.

At 5^th level and then every 5 levels thereafter, you may select an additional spell to cast in this way each day.

CANTRIPS

You learn any two cantrips at 1st level. These cantrips may be selected from the ethereal magical tradition. These cantrips may be cast at any time and do not need to be memorised.

MAGICAL ABILITY SCORE

Your charisma is your magical ability score. You add your Cha to your Spellcraft bonus and as a static bonus to your PP.

CLERIC #

CLASS TYPE

Adept

DESCRIPTION

You are blessed with the greatest of gifts, the ability to channel the power of the gods and mould it into powerful prayer and magic. Deities work their will upon the world in infinite ways, and you either serve them, or bend their will to serve you. Your spells might protect and heal your allies, or they might punish your foes and enemies, be at the will of the gods or not.

Play a Cleric if you wish to be the party healer and provide a little divine inspiration as well.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Wisdom (min +2), Charisma, Constitution

PROFICIENCIES

You are proficient in the use of light and medium armour and shields. You may use any simple weapon and any additional weapon as dictated by your deity.

CLASS SKILLS

Culture, Linguistics, Medicine, Meditation, Mental Focus, Planes, Power Manipulation, Religion, Sense Motive

SKILL POINTS

4 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

6 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Cleric as you advance in levels.

CHANNELS

As a cleric, you gain the ability to directly channel energy from the gods, or a specific deity you serve, to mend, protect, or restore life. You may use the Channels ability a number of times each day equal to your Charisma modifier +1.

Each time you use this ability; you may cast one of the following spells as an innate spell:

Cure, Inflict, Lifekeeping or Restoration

Channels is classed as an innate spell and thus requires no casting checks to use (see Chapter 9: Magic, for more details on innate spells).

BONUS FEATS

At 1^st level you gain the Heighten Spell feat.

SPECIALIST SPELLS

You gain any one PP 1 Specialist Spell at 1^st level. This spell is based upon your deific aspect (see below).

PRIESTLY PATH

As a Cleric you have chosen a specific method by which you deliver your pious training. At 1^st level you may select any one of the following Archetype feats as a bonus feat which becomes your Priestly Path:

Adventurer, Blessed by the Gods, Cloistered Priest, Enigma, Loremaster, Medic or War Priest

You must complete the progression requirements of this archetype feat before selecting another.

DEIFIC ASPECT

As a cleric you must select a deity or a divine aspect as your specialist field of study.

Your deific aspect grants you the following:

Edicts: A selection of edicts which must be followed.

Anathema: A selection of actions or behaviours that are strictly forbidden or deeply offensive to your deific aspect.

Suggested Ethics: A selection of ethics one of which you must select for your character.

Deific Skill: You gain a bonus class skill based upon your deific aspect.

Specialist Spells: As mentioned above, you select one of your deific aspects’ specialist spells at 1^st level. You may learn additional Cleric Specialist Spells by purchasing the Specialist Spell Feat.

Bonus Spells: You gain a number of additional spells which you do not need to memorise as they are always available for you to cast.

Favoured Weapon: You add this weapon to your list of those with you are proficient with. Furthermore, you gain a +1-class bonus to all attacks made with this weapon.

Deific aspects and deities are explored in more detail in the Appendix.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You are a divinity learned spell caster, and you select your Spell Lists from the Divinity Tradition.

To cast your spells, you must spend time in meditation during your daily preparation reciting from your prayer book. This process usually takes about half an hour. At the end of this time, you may select an amount of spells for which you meet the casting requirements, from the Divinity Spell List to commit to memory for the day equal to 2 + (level x 2). Spells committed to memory may be cast using your Power Points (Chapter 9: Magic).

CANTRIPS

Each day when you prepare your spells you may also learn any four divinity cantrips. You may select your cantrips from the Divinity spell list and may change them each day during daily preparation.

MAGICAL ABILITY SCORE

Your wisdom is your magical ability score. You add your Wis to your Spellcraft bonus and as a static bonus to your PP.

CRUSADER #

CLASS TYPE

Martial

DESCRIPTION

You follow a code or purpose which is associated with your loyalties. From a young age you have always dedicated yourself to this purpose and will allow nothing to stand in its way. You may be a knight who has sworn to uphold the laws of the land, a freedom fighter who has vowed to overthrow a tyrannical regime or perhaps the servant of a demon who walks this earth to reap fear and terror upon the weak. Regardless of your cause, you are a mighty warrior who can draw upon the power of the gods to strengthen your blade.

To your allies, you are a shining light in combat and a force to be reckoned with by your enemies.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Charisma (min +2), Constitution, Strength

PROFICIENCIES

You have proficiency in all armour and shields. You may use all simple and martial weapons.

CLASS SKILLS

Artistry, Athletics, Climbing, Culture, Diplomacy, Handle Animal, Intimidate, Linguistics, Medicine, Religion, Sense Motive

SKILL POINTS

4 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

10 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Crusader as you advance in levels.

DEVOTION

Action Reaction: Trigger You fumble a check with either a class skill or favoured weapon attack.

Using your reserve and devotion to your cause you may expend 2 PP to treat the check as a failure.

DIVINE RESOLVE

You are blessed by the power of your deity and may increase your conviction pool and conviction points by 1.

CRUSADERS MERCY

ESSENCE HEALING SOUL

Action 1 AP

As a Crusader you gain the ability to heal yourself of damage taken in combat as an innate ability. You may target yourself with a word of divine power which heals you of 1d8+4 hit points of damage. At 3^rd level and then every 2 levels thereafter the amount healed increases by 1d8+4. You may use this ability an amount of times per day equal to your Charisma.

BONUS FEATS

At 4^th level you gain one bonus class feat. You must meet the prerequisites or match the appropriate class traits (Crusader or Warrior) for these feats. You then gain an additional class feat at 8^th level and then every 4 levels thereafter.

SPECIALIST SPELLS

You gain any one PP 1 Specialist Spell at 1^st level. This spell is based upon your deific aspect (see below).

DEIFIC ASPECT

As a crusader you must select a deity or a divine aspect as your specialist field of study.

Your deific aspect grants you the following:

Edicts: A selection of edicts which must be followed.

Anathema: A selection of actions or behaviours that are strictly forbidden or deeply offensive to your deific aspect.

Suggested Ethics: A selection of ethics one of which you must select for your character.

Deific Skill: You gain a bonus class skill based upon your deific aspect.

Specialist Spells: As mentioned above, you select one of your deific aspects’ specialist spells at 1st level. You may learn additional Cleric Specialist Spells by purchasing the Specialist Spell Feat.

Bonus Spells: You gain a number of additional spells which you do not need to memorise as they are always available for you to cast.

Favoured Weapon: You add this weapon to your list of those with you are proficient with. Furthermore, you gain a +1-class bonus to all attacks made with this weapon.

Your deific aspect also grants you either the Strike of Retribution (good) or Self Preservation (evil) reaction feat. If your deific aspect has neither the good nor evil trait then you may select one of the feats, but once selected, it cannot be changed.

Deific aspects and deities are explored in more detail in the Appendix.

DIVINE GRACE

At 2nd level you may add half your Charisma bonus to all of your saving throws.

DIVINE ALLY

At 4^th level, your devotion attracts a spirit of your deity's alignment. Once you choose an ally, your choice can't be changed. The following are divine allies:

Blade Ally: A spirit of battle dwells within your armaments. Select one weapon when you make your daily preparations. In your hands, the item gains the effect of a property rune. You may choose called, courageous, disrupting, ghost touch, returning, or shifting.

Shield Ally: A spirit of protection dwells within your shield. In your hands, the shield's bonus increases by +1.

Steed Ally: You gain a young animal companion as a mount. Ordinarily, your animal companion is one that has the mount special ability, such as a horse.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You are a divinity, instinctive spell caster and draw your spells from the divinity tradition.

At 1^st level you may select any two PP 2 divinity spells and add them to your spell repertoire. At 3^rd level and then every two levels thereafter (5^th, 7^th etc) you may select a new divinity spell and add it your repertoire.

You may cast these spells as long as you meet the casting requirements and do not need to memorise your spells.

At 5^th level and then every two levels thereafter, you may swap any one spell from your repertoire for a new spell.

MAGICAL ABILITY SCORE

Your charisma is your magical ability score. You add your Cha to your Spellcraft bonus and as a static bonus to your PP.

DRUID #

CLASS TYPE

Adept

DESCRIPTION

You are more than just a priest of nature. You belong to an ancient order of verdant magic. Druids are often found amongst tribal societies acting as priests, healers, lore master’s and law givers. As a Druid, you seek to preserve the natural balance of things.

Play a Druid if you want to be one with Nature and help your companions with your wise counsel and healing skills.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Constitution, (min +2), Dexterity, Wisdom

PROFICIENCIES

You are proficient with any non-metal armour or shield. You may use any non-metal weapon.

CLASS SKILLS

Athletics, Climbing, Culture, Handle Animal, Linguistics, Meditation, Mental Focus, Nature, Power Manipulation, Survival

SKILL POINTS

6 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

6 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Druid as you advance in levels.

WILD EMPATHY

You have a connection to the creatures of the natural world that allows you to communicate with them on a rudimentary level. You gain a +2-class bonus to all checks involving communication with animals.

WILD SHAPE

You are one with the wild, always changing and adapting to meet any challenge. At 3^rd level you may once per day, take the form of an animal as if using the Shape of the Animal spell (automatically warped to your maximum casting PP). You do not need to make a Spellcraft check for this change, the effect lasts for 10 minutes (1 hour if you use the 10-minute warping option) and you may reduce your size by one step (which increases accordingly with the default warping options).

At 5^th level and then every two levels thereafter you may use wild shape an additional time each day.

Finally, you gain a +1-class bonus to all attacks made using natural weapons when using this ability or any form spell.

BONUS FEATS

At 1^st level you gain the Heighten Spell feat and the Wild Stride Feat.

SPECIALIST SPELLS

You gain any one PP 1 Druid Specialist Spell at 1^st level. You may learn additional Druid Specialist Spells by purchasing the Specialist Skill Feat.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You are a verdant, learned spell caster and may select your Spell Lists from the Verdant Tradition.

To cast your spells, you must spend time in communion with nature during your daily preparation. This process usually takes about half an hour and must be carried out in an outdoor rural or wilderness environment (GM discretion). At the end of this time, you may select an amount of spells for which you meet the casting requirements, from the Verdant Spell List to commit to memory for the day equal to 2 + (level x 2). Spells committed to memory may be cast using your Power Points (Chapter 9: Magic).

CANTRIPS

Each day when you prepare your spells you may also learn any four verdant cantrips. You may select your cantrips from the Verdant spell list and may change them each day during daily preparation.

MAGICAL ABILITY SCORE

Your constitution is your magical ability score. You add your Con to your Spellcraft bonus and as a static bonus to your PP.

DRUIDIC CODE

As a druid, you cannot tolerate affronts to nature and. You cannot use metal armour or shields and may not despoil natural places. If the code is broken, you may lose your druidic abilities (GM Discretion).

FIGHTER #

CLASS TYPE

Martial

DESCRIPTION

You are the master of arms and combat. You possess unparalleled skills in fighting with all kinds of weapons, both melee and ranged, as well as in unarmed combat. You can also wear heavy, cumbersome armour and be more efficient and functional than any other character while doing that. You can take a formidable amount of punishment before giving up the fight.

Fighter is definitely the type of character you want to play if you prefer a direct, straightforward approach and if you want to be involved in epic battles and be remembered by your deeds of valour and your legendary fighting skills.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Strength or Dexterity (min +2), Constitution

PROFICIENCIES

You are proficient in the use of all armour and shields (including tower shields). You may use all simple and martial weapons.

CLASS SKILLS

Athletics, Climbing, Culture, Diplomacy, Handle Animal, Intimidate, Survival

SKILL POINTS

4 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

12 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Fighter as you advance in levels.

WARRIOR’S RESOLVE

You are a gritty front-line warrior and may increase your conviction pool and conviction points by 1.

MARTIAL TRAINING

Your martial training has exposed you to specialised schools of combat beyond the normal limits of your class. You may select one of the following Archetype feats:

Aegis, Archer, Armour Master, Cavalier, Champion, Vanguard or Warden

You do not need to meet the feat’s normal prerequisites or progression requirements when selecting this feat through Martial Archetype Training. This archetype feat does not prevent you from selecting another archetype feat later. It also does not require you to complete its progression requirements before selecting another archetype.

BATTLE READINESS

At 2^nd level you learn to react to violence faster than other warriors, turning openings into immediate action. At the start of each round, you gain one additional reaction. This reaction can only be used to perform an action with the Reaction action type that also has either the Attack trait or the Martial trait. If an ability would allow you to make multiple reactions from a single trigger, you may still only use one reaction for that trigger unless the ability specifically states otherwise.

ARMOUR EXEMPLAR

At 3^rd level, you learn to be more manoeuvrable whilst wearing armour. Whenever you are wearing armour, you reduce the armour check penalty by 1 (to a minimum of 0) and increases the maximum Dexterity bonus allowed by your armour by 1. Every four levels thereafter (7th, 11th, and 15th), these bonuses increase by 1 each time, to a maximum –4 reduction of the armour check penalty and a +4 increase of the maximum Dexterity bonus allowed.

WEAPON EXEMPLAR

At 4^th level, you can select one group of weapons, as noted below. Whenever you attack with a weapon from this group, you gain a +1-class bonus on attack rolls and damage rolls. At 8^th level and every four levels thereafter, you become further trained in another group of weapons. You gain a +1-class bonus on attack rolls and damage rolls when using a weapon from this group. In addition, the bonuses granted by previous weapon groups increase by +1 each. Bonuses granted from overlapping groups do not stack. Take the highest bonus granted for a weapon if it resides in two or more groups.

PRESS THE ADVANATGE

At 4^th level, you know how to exploit a shift in battle before your enemy can recover. Once per round, when you achieve one of the following, you may immediately Step 5 feet or Interact as a free action:

You inflict a critical hit.

You disable an enemy (either reducing to 0 HP, killing them or rendering them unconscious).

You successfully Shove, Trip, Disarm, Grapple, or otherwise succeed at a martial combat manoeuvre.

An enemy within your reach fumbles an attack against you.

The Interact action must relate directly to the current combat, such as drawing a weapon, changing grip, drawing ammunition, opening or closing a door, grabbing an item, switching weapons, or manipulating battlefield gear.

At 13th level, when Press the Advantage allows you to Step, you may instead Stride up to half your Speed. This movement must either move you adjacent to an enemy, into cover, into a flanking position, or into a position that protects an ally.

UNBREAKABLE RESOLVE

At 9^th level, your discipline allows you to endure effects that would break lesser warriors. Once per day, when you fail a Fortitude, Reflex, or Will saving throw, you may reroll the saving throw. You must use the second result.

At 15th level, you may use Unbreakable Resolve twice per day.

At 19th level, if the second result is a Partial, you may treat it as a Success.

WEAPON SUPREMACY

At 13^th level, Your mastery of chosen weapons is so complete that near-misses become telling blows. When making a Strike with a weapon from one of your weapon groups selected with weapon exemplar, you treat a miss by 1 as a hit.

This does not apply if the attack was made with disadvantage.

At 19th level, you treat a miss by 2 or less as a hit.

BONUS FEATS

At 1^st level you gain one bonus class feat. You must meet the prerequisites or match the appropriate class traits (Fighter or Warrior) for these feats. You then gain an additional class feat at 3^{rd level} and then every 2 levels thereafter.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You have no spell casting abilities but must select a magical tradition at 1^st level.

RANGER #

CLASS TYPE

Martial

DESCRIPTION

You know how to live off the land and are skilled at spotting and taking down both opportune prey and hated enemies.

Some rangers believe civilization wears down the soul but still needs to be protected from wild creatures. Others say nature needs to be protected from the greedy, who wish to tame its beauty and plunder its treasures. You could champion either goal, or both. You might be a scout, tracker, or hunter of fugitives or beasts, haunting the edge of civilization or exploring the wilds.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Constitution (min +2), Dexterity, Wisdom

PROFICIENCIES

You have proficiency in non-metal light armour, medium armour and shields. You may use all simple and martial weapons.

CLASS SKILLS

Acrobatics, Athletics, Climbing, Culture, Handle Animal, Nature, Perception, Stealth, Survival

SKILL POINTS

6 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

10 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Ranger as you advance in levels.

BONUS FEATS

At 1^st level you gain the Favoured Terrain feat. At 4^th level and then every 4 levels thereafter you may select an additional class feat. This class feat must be one for which you meet the prerequisites or match the appropriate class trait (Ranger or Martial).

HUNT PREY

CONCENTRATE

Action 1 AP

You designate a single creature as your prey and focus your attacks against that creature. You must be able to see or hear the prey, or you must be tracking the prey. You may add your class bonus to all checks made against your prey

You can have only one creature designated as your prey at a time. If you use Hunt Prey against a creature when you already have a creature designated, the prior creature loses the designation, and the new prey gains the designation.

TRAP FINDER

You gain a +2-circumstance bonus to Perception checks to find traps, to DB against attacks made by traps, and to saves against traps. Even if you aren’t Searching, you get a check to find traps that normally require you to be Searching. You still need to meet any other requirements to find the trap.

If you have 10 or more ranks in the perception skill, your bonus increases to +4.

HUNTER’S METHOD

When you use Hunt Prey, you also apply one Hunter’s Method. You select your Hunter’s Method during daily preparation.

The Ranger may only have one Hunter’s Method active at a time.

SWIFT PURSUIT

At 6^th level when your hunted prey moves away from you, you may Step 5 feet as a reaction.

At 13th level, you may instead Stride up to half your Speed as a reaction, but this movement must move you closer to your hunted prey.

TERRAIN MASTERY

At 9^th level, when in one of your favoured terrains, you ignore natural difficult terrain and treat natural formidable terrain as difficult terrain. In addition, allies within 30 feet who can see or hear you gain a +1-circumstance bonus to Survival, Stealth, and Perception checks made in that terrain. At 15th level, this bonus increases to +2.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You are a verdant instinctive spell caster and draw your spells from the verdant tradition.

At 1^st level you may select any two PP 2 utility verdant spells and add them to your spell repertoire. At 3^rd level and then every two levels thereafter (5^th, 7^th etc) you may select a new verdant utility spell and add it your repertoire.

You may cast these spells as long as you meet the casting requirements and do not need to memorise your spells.

At 5^th level and then every two levels thereafter, you may swap any one spell from your repertoire for a new spell.

MAGICAL ABILITY SCORE

Your constitution is your magical ability score. You add your Con to your Spellcraft bonus and as a static bonus to your PP.

ROGUE #

CLASS TYPE

Expert

DESCRIPTION

You are adept at disguise, stealth, and subterfuge. You can go unnoticed in a crowd or be silent and unseen like deadly shadows in a dark cave, as well as in the back alleys of a city. Your combat skills aren’t as good as the Fighter’s, but you’re still capable of defending yourself in a fight, even if you’re way more deadly when approaching the enemy by ambush.

Play a Rogue if you want to be sneaky, subtle, swift, and always a step ahead (or behind!) of any other character.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Dexterity (min +2), Wisdom, Charisma

PROFICIENCIES

You are proficient in the use of light armour and bucklers. You may use all simple weapons, all small weapons and shortbows.

CLASS SKILLS

Acrobatics, Artistry, Athletics, Climbing, Culture, Deception, Diplomacy, Intimidate, Linguistics, Perception, Sense Motive, Stealth, Thievery

SKILL POINTS

10 + Int per level

HIT POINTS

8 + Con per level

CLASS ABILITIES

You gain the following abilities as a Rogue as you advance in levels.

BONUS FEATS

At 1^st level you gain the any one bonus class feat. At 2^nd level you gain the Evasion class feat.

At 3^rd level and then every 2 levels thereafter you may select an additional class feat. These class feats must be ones for which you meet the prerequisites or match the appropriate class trait (Rogue or Expert).

ARCHETYPAL PATH

Each rogue has their own way of doing things and you are no different. At 1^st level you may select any one of the following Archetype feats which becomes your Archetypal Path:

Arcanist, Assassin, Gleeman, Gymnast, Mastermind or Warden

Unlike other archetype feats, you do not need to meet the progression requirements to select another archetype and thus may have two such feats running at the same time.

ROGUISH SKILL

Beginning at first level you may select one of the following skills which gains a +1-class bonus:

Acrobatics, Athletics, Climbing, Deception, Intimidate, Stealth, Thievery

At 5^th level and then every 5 levels thereafter, you may select an additional skill to gain this bonus. You may not select the same skill more than once.

KILLER’S EDGE

You know how to turn precision, speed, and timing into lethal advantage. When you inflict a critical hit with an attack that has either the agile or finesse traits, you may increase or decrease the critical result by an amount equal to your class bonus.

This modifier stacks with any adjustment gained from Ambush, Sniping, or similar abilities.

SCOUNDRELS LUCK

You often push your luck to the extreme and may increase your conviction pool and conviction points by 1. Furthermore, you do not expend the conviction used when gaining advantage on a skill modified by Roguish Skill if the result of the check is a failure.

SNEAK ATTACK

Your ability to catch your targets unaware is unsurpassed. If you Strike a creature that is flanked or that has the flat-footed condition with an agile or finesse melee attack, or a ranged weapon attack, you deal an extra 1d6 precision damage. For a ranged attack with a thrown melee weapon, that weapon must also be agile or finesse. As your stealth skill increases, so does the amount of additional damage you inflict. When your stealth skill reaches rank 3 and then for every 3 additional ranks thereafter the amount of damage that you inflict increases by 1d6.

TRAP FINDER

You gain a +2-circumstance bonus to Perception checks to find traps, to DB against attacks made by traps, and to saves against traps. Even if you aren’t Searching, you get a check to find traps that normally require you to be Searching. You still need to meet any other requirements to find the trap.

If you have 10 or more ranks in the perception skill, your bonus increases to +4.

PATTERN DISRUPTION

At 2^nd level you can trace the subtle patterns of a magical device. When disarming magical traps, devices and locks, you treat the difficulty as Medium (+0 DC) instead of Very Hard.

OPPORTUNISTS STRIKE

At 3^RD level You are at your most dangerous when an enemy is distracted, exposed, or unable to defend properly. Once per round, when you make a Strike with an agile or finesseable weapon against a target that qualifies for your Sneak Attack, you gain a +1-circumstance bonus to the attack roll.

At 11th level, this bonus increases to +2.

Be aware that this bonus does not apply if the attack is made with disadvantage.

MAGICAL TRADITION

You have no spell casting abilities but must select a magical tradition at 1st level.

WIZARD #

CLASS TYPE

Adept

DESCRIPTION

You are adept at the arcane skills, always immersed in your studies of dusty tomes and mouldy scrolls, seeking enlightenment and trying to uncover the deepest secrets and mysteries of magic.

You can cast subtle enchantments, wondrous magics capable of altering the very fabric of reality, and conjure the immense power of the Elements to deliver devastating attacks against their enemies. You are often very jealous of your secret arts.

You may want to play a Wizard if you want to awe your enemies and allies alike with the sheer power or subtle charm of your magic.

KEY ABILITY SCORES

Intelligence (min +2), Wisdom, Dexterity

PROFICIENCIES