You've dedicated yourself to studying the Veil, the Old Ones, and the dimensional energies that broke the world. You might be part of the Grey Communion, a rogue researcher, or an academic from a vault community. You know things most fear to learn, and knowledge—no matter how dangerous—drives you.
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, Investigation
Tool Proficiencies: Calligrapher's supplies
Languages: Two of your choice (Deep Speech, ancient languages, or exotic languages preferred)
Equipment: A research journal filled with notes and diagrams, calligrapher's supplies, a collection of Veil phenomena samples (safe, mostly), a set of common clothes, and a belt pouch containing 15 gp
Feature: Forbidden Research
You've studied texts and phenomena that most consider too dangerous to approach. You can recall or research information about the Old Ones, Veil Engines, dimensional magic, and related topics. When you encounter Veil phenomena, aberrations, or Old One cults, you can attempt an Intelligence (Arcana) check to identify specifics (the DM sets the DC). Additionally, you know where to find forbidden libraries, hidden archives, and secret researchers who might have the dangerous knowledge you seek—though accessing such resources often comes with a price.
Suggested Characteristics
Veil scholars are driven by insatiable curiosity, often at the expense of wisdom or self-preservation. They range from detached academics to obsessed seekers of truth. Most carry the weight of knowledge they wish they didn't have.
Personality Traits (d8):
1. I pepper my speech with academic jargon and citations.
2. I become hyperfocused when studying something new.
3. I keep extensive notes on everything I observe.
4. I ask inappropriately curious questions about dangerous topics.
5. I'm socially awkward after so much time alone with books.
6. I correct people's misconceptions compulsively.
7. I treat dangerous phenomena with scientific detachment.
8. I have trouble sleeping, my mind racing with theories.
Ideals (d6):
1. Knowledge: Understanding the truth is worth any risk. (Neutral)
2. Prevention: I study the Veil to learn how to seal it. (Good)
3. Power: Knowledge of the Old Ones can grant incredible power. (Evil)
4. Preservation: This knowledge must be recorded before it's lost. (Lawful)
5. Transcendence: Perhaps communion with the Old Ones can enlighten us. (Chaotic)
6. Warning: People need to understand the dangers they face. (Good)
Bonds (d6):
1. My mentor went mad studying the Veil; I'll finish their work.
2. I possess a fragment of a pre-Unveiling text that hints at salvation.
3. Another scholar and I share research—we're rivals and allies.
4. I'm documenting everything for future generations.
5. I witnessed a Veil phenomenon that changed my life, and I must understand it.
6. Someone I love is affected by Veil corruption; I'm searching for a cure.
Flaws (d6):
1. I take dangerous risks to learn new things.
2. I've read things I shouldn't have, and they haunt me.
3. I hoard knowledge instead of sharing it.
4. I'm going mad from exposure to forbidden truths.
5. I'm obsessed with a specific Old One or phenomenon.
6. I've made deals with questionable entities for knowledge.