You have dedicated your life to the study of all manner of creatures, both mundane and magical. As a result, you have unparalleled expertise regarding even the rarest of finds. Though you may have begun adventuring as a simple means of observing these fascinating creatures in the wild, other adventurers find your insight and wealth of knowledge to be indispensable in the depths of a dungeon and on the battlefield.
Your extensive study of creatures grants you the ability to easily recognize the threats they present as well as methods of defending against them when encountered in the wild. Whenever you encounter any creature with a Challenge Rating equal to or less than your level +2 you may use an action to observe the creature, allowing you to determine the following traits:
- The creature's type
- The creature's vulnerabilities, resistances, and immunities (if any)
- The creature's senses
- The creature's languages (if any)
- The creature's Legendary Actions (if any)
If the creature is of the Type you are specialized in, you may benefit from this ability if the creature's Challenge Rating is equal to or less than your level +4. If you use this ability on a creature whose Challenge Rating is too high for you to glean information, you will recognize the inherent danger of the creature, but be unable to determine any of its precise traits or Challenge Rating.
Suggested Characteristics
Suggested Characteristics
The Cryptozoologist is extremely studious, much like the Sage. However, the Cryptozoologist is a little more likely to endanger themselves (and their companions) in the pursuit of "getting a closer look" at creatures who interest them.
| 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've seen the wild, up close. As such I am dedicated to the trappings of civilization and civility. |
| 6 | I view humanoids as just another type of creature for cold and impartial study. |
| 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 knowledge of a rare and powerful creature that must not fall into the wrong hands. |
| 3 | I perform my field research at the behest of a library, university, scriptorium, or monastery. |
| 4 | My life’s work is a series of tomes related to a specific legendary creature. It may take offense at this, or it may be flattered. |
| 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 | Protecting creatures in the wild 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. |
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