Careless Whisper Alchemist

(Consider this an alternative to the Artificer. If you choose to play this class, while we would use the mechanics of this class, for all intents and purposes of the game, you would be considered an Artificer).

There is great power in the understanding of nature especially with the inclusion of science — arts that alchemists utilize to stupendous effect. Whether drinking impossible concoctions, shaking the foundations of a battlefield with bombs, or carefully analyzing anomalies that defy the supernatural, these canny adventurers overcome obstacles by way of their keen minds rather than resorting to brawn.

Scientists of Magic

Like all magic users alchemists seek a deeper understanding of the secrets of the universe, but approach that understanding through studies of the material world rather than research into magic itself, pacts with strange beings, or contemplation of one’s bloodline. Some might call their researches almost scientific in nature yet they involve as much of the arcane and the occult as the mundane — they also frequently involve obsession and even what some might call madness.

Bridging the Gap

The practice of alchemy is both the rigorous application of magic and science, one part knowledge of the world’s components and another the ephemeral energies that mesh them all together. It is for this reason that even more than wizards, alchemists are highly regarded academics, scholars, and sages. A powerful mage might be able to determine the source of curse or other malady whereas an alchemist is likely to deduce what it is by way of their encyclopedic knowledge (and perhaps a touch of enchanted brew).

Creating an Alchemist

The first thing to decide when making an alchemist is the drive for your intellectual curiosity. Are you resolute in the desire to know for the joy of knowledge, do you have some great aim or goal that requires a keen mind to achieve, or are you chasing after a remedy to a malady that brought tragedy to your past? Are the answers you seek truly going to bring closure or peace, or will you discover that your thirst for learning cannot be so easily sated?

On the matter of learning, how did you come to the doorsteps of science? Did you have a mentor, study on your own, or attend an academy? Are your techniques codified, complex, and scientific or more chaotic and akin to that of a master brewer? What side projects or interests color your relationship with alchemy? Do you believe it’s more a matter of magic than science?

Class Features

• Hit Dice: 1d8 + your Constitution modifier per Alchemist level
• Proficiencies
  • Armor: Light armor
  • Weapons: Simple weapons, alchemical items, alchemical bombs
  • Tools: Alchemist's supplies
  • Saving Throws: Dexterity, Intelligence
  • Skills: Choose three from Arcana, Deception, History, Insight, Investigation, Medicine, Nature, Perception, or Stealth

• More: A Touch of Class Codex, page 3