Reluctant Sage (Noble Variant)

You never wanted to be an academic, but circumstances (parents, guardians, authorities, etc) decided for you and you were forced to study at an academy or under the tutelage of another. You resisted your lessons, but threats and even physical force made it so you had to learn at least pay some attention or face the consequences. You may not have learned all of your lessons, but despite your best efforts you did learn a lot about history, the multiverse, magic, and/or other scholarly topics. You come from nobility, so your resources are higher than those of the average sage. However, your rebellious attitude has not made you popular among other nobles.

Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, History

Languages: Two of your choice

Equipment: A bottle of black ink, a quill, a small knife, a signet ring, a scroll of pedigree, a set of fine clothes, and a purse containing 25 gp

Suggested Characteristics

Sages are defined by their extensive studies, but you hated your studies. Your likely have a rebellious personality, and often clash with your teachers and with authority. You also likely have a history of conflict with your family, which may have been the reason you were forced into your studies.

d8	Personality Trait
1	I use polysyllabic words that convey the impression of great erudition.
2	I’ve read every book in the world’s greatest libraries—or I like to boast that I have.
3	I’m used to helping out those who aren’t as smart as I am, and I patiently explain anything and everything to others.
4	There’s nothing I like more than a good mystery.
5	I’m willing to listen to every side of an argument before I make my own judgment.
6	I … speak … slowly … when talking … to idiots, … which … almost … everyone … is … compared … to me.
7	I am horribly, horribly awkward in social situations.
8	I’m convinced that people are always trying to steal my secrets.

d6	Ideal
1	Knowledge. The path to power and self-improvement is through knowledge. (Neutral)
2	Beauty. What is beautiful points us beyond itself toward what is true. (Good)
3	Logic. Emotions must not cloud our logical thinking. (Lawful)
4	No Limits. Nothing should fetter the infinite possibility inherent in all existence. (Chaotic)
5	Power. Knowledge is the path to power and domination. (Evil)
6	Self-Improvement. The goal of a life of study is the betterment of oneself. (Any)

d6	Bond
1	It is my duty to protect my students.
2	I have an ancient text that holds terrible secrets that must not fall into the wrong hands.
3	I work to preserve a library, university, scriptorium, or monastery.
4	My life’s work is a series of tomes related to a specific field of lore.
5	I’ve been searching my whole life for the answer to a certain question.
6	I sold my soul for knowledge. I hope to do great deeds and win it back.

d6	Flaw
1	I am easily distracted by the promise of information.
2	Most people scream and run when they see a demon. I stop and take notes on its anatomy.
3	Unlocking an ancient mystery is worth the price of a civilization.
4	I overlook obvious solutions in favor of complicated ones.
5	I speak without really thinking through my words, invariably insulting others.
6	I can’t keep a secret to save my life, or anyone else’s.