The Arcanist is a half-elf in search of esoteric knowledge, arcane lore, and spiritual enlightenment. An Arcanist's entire life is devoted to gaining knowledge of the supernatural. Because of a half-elf's dual-world upbringing, many do not think along conventional lines. Thus, the Arcanist considers priestly magic and wizardry to be merely extensions of one another. The Arcanist considers himself to be a practitioner of an entirely different, purer form of magic, and hopes to eventually attain mastery of all spells.

Requirements:

The Arcanist must have Intelligence and Wisdom scores of at least 15.

Specialty priests:

If the Complete Priest's Handbook is being used, all forces and philosophies may have Arcanists, as well as the deities of Ancestors, Arts, Culture, Darkness/Night, Dawn, Death, Everything, Fertility, Fate/Destiny, Light, Magic, Messengers, Mischief/Trickery, Moon, Oracles/Prophecy, Peace, Race (half-elf), Sites, Sun, Time, War, and Wisdom.

Role:

The Arcanist is a very useful addition to a party, not only for the benefits of his spells, but also for the vast knowledge of various mystical subjects this character possesses. This character is fascinated by all forms of magic and is constantly seeking to add to his store of arcane knowledge, and will often accompany adventurers just to encounter new magical items, spells, or creatures.

Secondary skills:

Required: Scribe.

Weapon proficiencies:

Any allowed by the priesthood.

Nonweapon proficiencies:

Bonus: Ancient History, Reading/Writing, Religion, Spellcraft. Recommended: Heraldry, Ancient Languages, Astrology, Herbalism.

Equipment:

Aside from spell books and religious symbols, none are required. Only elven chain mail may be worn by Arcanists.

Special benefits:

The Arcanist has an ability similar to the Bard's magical-itme identification (legend lore) ability. The Arcanist has a 5% chance per level (use highest level) to identify the history and background of any magical item she encounters.

Special hindrances:

The Arcanist has a "spooky" feel to her, and has a -2 reaction penalty to all characters except spellcasters (wizards, priest, paladins, rangers, and bards).