Monk

Mage Class Archetype

Melee-based magic and fighting skills

Monks are a group of scholarly mages, mainly interested in learning more about the ancient magical arts. They are trained in secluded monasteries, spending many years with their noses deep in books. While Monks often call upon the Powers during their castings, they tend not to be too religious, relying upon their familiarity with forgotten rites and words of power. The spells used by most Monks deal primarily with enhancing the abilities of the caster, curing minor ailments, or hindering the abilities of enemies. Additionally, Monks are able to call upon the powers of plants and herbs and produce powerful concoctions.

Alim toke a deep breath as he looked around the darkening forest, broken bodies and weapons littered the ground from the clash between usurper and defender. Two lone warriors stood surrounded by the growing evening.

Alim said with authority, "Your minions are retreating in defeat, Renu. It is time for YOU to taste defeat as well!"

Renu replied, "You are a fool if you think you can beat me. Your weapon is broken and useless."

Alim glanced down at his empty hands, concentrating. "These bare hands will be your undoing."

Alim and Renu began fighting, Renu swinging his sword savagely and invoking the power of ancient demons. It looked as though Renu would win the contest as Alim continued to back up, deflecting the dark priest's sword blows with his bare hands. Suddenly, Alim reacted to a gap in Renu's defenses, landing a stronger than normal blow. Stunned, Renu stumbled back, gripping his sword in his hand.

Alim delivered a roundhouse kick to Renu, connecting solidly and sending Renu's unconscious body to the damp, forest floor.

While they devote much time to their studies and hold knowledge as a primary goal, Monks also believe that the body and mind must be in harmony. As a result, they tend to be much more physically fit than other classes of magicians. They prefer disabling their opponents in battle using whips, but are also skilled with flails, maces, nunchaku, polearms, and yo-yos. Monks can deal as much damage as an experienced warrior, and are usually difficult to hit during combat.

The first monastery was founded centuries ago by a group of White Wizards. Since then, many other mages have founded their own research institutions. While clerics are sometimes angered by these secular intrusions into the domain of the Powers, Monks continue to learn more about things that have been long forgotten. Some young Monks choose to journey the world in search of new information, and most often begin in Sigil, home of one of the largest magical libraries in existence.

Monk Proficiencies

Monk Spells