Natural Philosopher
From youth, the unbridled curiosity of Natural Philosophers has lent them a fascination about everything from the characteristics of plants and animals to the workings of natural forces like lightning and weather, in addition to the ancient history of the druidic order.
Role
A typical Natural Philosopher delights in the study of new plants and animals. She thinks nothing of venturing into a haunted forest to observe a rare circle of toadstools or visiting a dragon's den to observe firsthand the miracle of a hatching. She rarely interferes with her subject of study, preferring to observe and sketch rather than bring home specimens. Natural Philosophers often undertake adventures out of sheer curiosity. A party might accompany her to study the ecology of the salamander on the Elemental Plane of Fire or to check out a rumor that a previously extinct species of giant owl now lives in the woods by a lich's castle.
Distinctive Appearance
None
Special Benefits
The Natural Philosopher may use weapon proficiency slots for non-weapon proficiencies. This allows the druid to devote multiple slots to a single proficiency (such as Animal Lore, Herbalism, or Weather Sense), making her an expert in zoology, botany, or meteorology.
Special Hindrances
Remember to reflect in your role-playing the Natural Philosopher's insatiable curiosity. For instance, this druid would rather study a new monster than kill it or run away. She finds puzzles and riddles irresistible and risks even her life to find the answers.
Class
Attribute Requirements
Intelligence 15
Barred Beliefs
Arctic and jungle druids cannot take this kit, as their harsh home terrain forces them to devote their time to mere survival, not scientific pursuits.
Race Requirement
None
Bonus Weapon Proficiencies
None
Required Weapon Proficiencies
None
Recommended Weapon Proficiencies
Staff
Barred Weapon Proficiencies
None
Bonus Non-Weapon Proficiencies
Recommended Non-Weapon Proficiencies
Artistic Ability, Language (Modern), Weather Sense, Herbalism, Language (Ancient), Reading/Writing, Animal Lore
Equipment
The druid should spend her initial allotment of gold pieces entirely on equipment, as she loses any unspent starting money in excess of 1 gp.
Wealth Options
3d6 x 10 gp