Table Of Content®
MONTE COOK’S
ARCANA
UNEARTHED
A Variant Player’s Handbook
By Monte Cook
Additional Credits
Editing and Production:Sue Weinlein Cook •Cover Illustration:Mark Zug
Interior Illustrations:Toren “MacBin”Atkinson,David Hendee,Jennifer Meyer,Stephen Shepherd,and Sam Wood
Cover and Interior Page Design:Peter Whitley •Proofreading:Mark Ashton
Playtesters:Matthew Arieta,Scott Bercaw,Michele Bonelli di Salci,Julian Alexander Brevad,Sindre Buchanan,Mark Bursey,Roy Cejing
Butler,Mark Byer ,Tim Campbell,Michele Carter,Steven Charbonneau,Sue Cook,Brenda Copping,Bruce Cordell ,Philippe Daigneault,
Riccardo D’Antimi,Jesse Decker,Sam Didier ,Donavan Dufault,Mylène Dumais,Matthew E.Farr,Per DitlefFaye,Bob Fitch,Victoria Fitch,
Dave Fried,Frank Gilson,Ed Goethe ,Kelly Graham,Scott Hannah,Sean Hannah,Ken Heaton,Michael Heiberg,Manuel Rodriguez
Jàuregui,Joseph H.Johnson,Nathan Johnson,Peter Kastner,Lance Keber,Robin Knepper,Patrick Langlois,GeofLaur,Robben Leaf,Matt
Locke,Tom Lommel,Alessandro Marchetti,Mike Marohl,Marie-France Matte,Sean McLeod,Martin Ménard,Geoffrey Scott Mercer,Chris
Metzen,Andrew W.Morris,Fabio Milito Pagliara,Susan Patrick,Chris Perkins,Nicolas Pevishan,Joachim Rasmussen,Brian Riley,John
Schwartz,Del Shand,Nicolas Shand,Odin Runningen Skaugen,Joseph Skupniewitz,Cheryl Storm,Jeremy Storm,Pete Storm,John
Sussenberger,Lisa Sussenberger,Tammy Tavener,Robert L.Trottier,Bob Tucker,and Collin White
Special Thanks:Jonathan Tweet,Skip Williams,and Stephen R.Donaldson
For supplemental material,visit Monte Cook’s Website:<www.montecook.com>
©2003 Monte J. Cook. All rights reserved. Malhavoc is a registered trademark and Eldritch Might is a trademark owned by Monte J. Cook. All rights reserved. Dungeons &
Dragons®,Dungeon Master®, and Wizards of the Coast®are Registered Trademarks and Unearthed Arcana™is a trademark of Wizards of the Coast, Inc., a subsidiary
of Hasbro, Inc. Arcana Unearthedis used with permission of Wizards, and all rights are reserved. The mention of or reference to any company or product in these pages is
not a challenge to the trademark or copyright concerned. This book is compatible with 3rd Edition and Revised 3rd Edition rules.
This edition of Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthed is produced under version 1.0a of the Open Game License and draft versions of the System Reference Document by
permission of Wizards of the Coast. Subsequent versions of this product will incorporate later versions of the license and document.
Designation of Product Identity:The following items are hereby designated as Product Identity in accordance with Section 1(e) of the Open Game License, version
1.0a: Any and all Malhavoc Press logos and identifying marks and trade dress, such as all Malhavoc Press product and product line names including but not limited to
Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthed, The Book of Eldritch Might, and The Diamond Throne; any specific characters, monsters, creatures, and places; capitalized names and
original names of places, artifacts, characters, races, countries, creatures, geographic locations, gods, historic events, magic items, organizations, spells, feats, and abili-
ties; any and all stories, storylines, histories, plots, thematic elements, and dialogue; and all artwork, symbols, designs, depictions, illustrations, maps, and cartography,
likenesses, poses, logos, or graphic designs, except such elements that already appear in final or draft versions of the d20 System Reference Document or as Open Game
Content below and are already open by virtue of appearing there. The above Product Identity is not Open Game Content.
Designation of Open Game Content: Subject to the Product Identity designation above, the following portions of Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthedare designated as
Open Game Content: the “Before You Start” section of the Introduction; the entirety of Chapter One; the racial class tables and the “Racial Traits” sections of Chapter Two;
the class tables and “Class Features” sections of Chapter Three; the entirety of Chapter Four; the feats in Chapter Five (except original feat names); the spell parameters
(range, duration, etc.) and game mechanics in Chapter Nine (but not original spell names); and anything else contained herein which is already Open Game Content by
virtue of appearing in the SystemReference Document or some other Open Game Content source. In Chapters Six, Seven, and Eight, all the material that also appears in
the SystemReference Document is open, and all other material is not.
Some portions of this book which are Open Game Content originate from the SystemReference Document and are ©1999–2003 Wizards of the Coast, Inc. The remain-
der of these Open Game Content portions of this book are hereby added to Open Game Content and if so used, should bear the COPYRIGHTNOTICE“Monte Cook’s Arcana
Unearthed©2003 Monte J. Cook.” This material is protected under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Any reproduction, retransmission, or unauthorized
use of the artwork or non-Open Game Content herein is prohibited without express written permission from Monte Cook, except for purposes of review or use of Open
Game Contentconsistent with the Open Game License. The original purchaser may print or photocopy copies for his or her own personal use only.
Notice to Publishers: Malhavoc Press invites you to inquire about our free limited license to use Product Identity material from Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthedin
your products.To find out more about the terms of this free limited license, please contact us at < arcanaunearthed @montecook.com >.
This document is a work of fiction. Any similarity to actual people, organizations, places, or events is purely coincidental.
Check out Sword &Sorcery online at <www.swordsorcery.com> PRINTED IN CANADA
2 Monte Cook’sArcanaUnearthed
Table of Contents
Introduction: Runethane . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Subdual Damage . . . . . . . .151
A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES Sidebar:Creating New Runes . . .52 Actions in the Round . . .152
What Is This Book? . . . . . . . .3 Totem Warrior . . . . . . . . . .54 Sidebar:Types of Special
What’s Inside? . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Sidebar:Creating New Totem Abilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .158
What Other Books Animal Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Breaking Items and
Do I Need? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Unfettered . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Attacking Objects . . . . .159
Themes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Warmain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Grenadelike Weapon
New Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Witch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160
Before You Start... . . . . . . . .5 Sidebar:Witching Sites Mounted Combat . . . . . . .160
Creating Characters . . . . .6 and Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Saving Throws . . . . . . . . . .162
Sidebar:No Alignments . . . . . . . .6 Multiclass Characters . . .71 Hero Points . . . . . . . . . . . .162
Sidebar:Dramatic Uses
Chapter One:ABILITIES Chapter Four:SKILLS of Hero Points . . . . . . . . . . . .163
Skill Points . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Determining Ability Scores .7
Ability Modifiers . . . . . . . . .7 Using Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Chapter Eight:MAGIC
Using Ability Scores . . . . . .7 SkillDescriptions . . . . . . .74 Knowing and Readying
Abilities and Spellcasters .9 Sidebar:Research / Waking Up . .85 a Spell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164
Using Strength: Sidebar:Search vs. Spot . . . . . . .87 SpellFormat . . . . . . . . . . .165
Carrying Capacity . . . . .10 Sidebar:Spellcraft vs. Casting a Spell . . . . . . . . .166
Knowledge (Magic) . . . . . . . .88
Using Intelligence: Aiming a Spell . . . . . . . . . .166
Remembering . . . . . . . . . .11 Chapter Five:FEATS AND TALENTS Saving Throw . . . . . . . . . . .167
Using Charisma: Gaining Feats . . . . . . . . . . .93 Spell Resistance . . . . . . . .168
Influencing Others . . . .11 Feat Categories . . . . . . . . .93 The Spell’s Result . . . . . . .168
Changing Ability Scores . .11 Sidebar:Miscellaneous Item Components . . . . . . . . . . .169
Concentration . . . . . . . . .170
Creation Modifiers . . . . . . . . .96
Chapter Two:RACES Feat Descriptions . . . . . . .96 Caster Level . . . . . . . . . . .170
Humans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 SpellFailure . . . . . . . . . . .171
Faen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Chapter Six:EQUIPMENT Special SpellEffects . . . .171
Sidebar:Faen Gods . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 Bringing Back the Dead .171
Giants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Weapons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 Truenames . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171
Sidebar:Giants in the Campaign . .16 Sidebar:Weapon Size . . . . . . . . .125 Sidebar:Using Truenames . . . . .172
Litorians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Sidebar:Special and Superior Elements and
Mojh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Weapons/Armor . . . . . . . . . . .126 Energy Types . . . . . . . . .172
Sidebar:Mojh Transformation .19 Armor and Shields . . . . . .128 Combining Magical
Runechildren . . . . . . . . . .20 Sidebar:Armor Extras . . . . . . . .129 Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . .172
Sibeccai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Goods and Services . . . . .133 Schools of Magic . . . . . . .173
Verrik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Spell Templates . . . . . . . . .175
Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Chapter Seven:
Height and Weight . . . . . .24 PLAYING THE GAME Chapter Nine:SPELLS
Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . .140 Spell List . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178
Chapter Three:CLASSES Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 Spell Descriptions . . . . . .184
Classes and Levels . . . . . . .25 Staging Encounters . . . .143 Sidebar:Undead . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
Akashic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Combat Sequence . . . . . . .144 Sidebar:Peering Through
Sidebar:Akashic Nodes . . . . . . . .27 The Combat Round . . . . . .144 Matter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .224
Sidebar:Akashic Memory Stones .28 Armor Class . . . . . . . . . . . .144 Sidebar:Incorporeal Undead . .232
Champion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Hit Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 Sidebar:Time Spent Developing
Sidebar:Creating New Causes Facing and Flanking . . . .145 Teleport Paths . . . . . . . .242-243
to Champion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Making Attacks . . . . . . . . .145
Greenbond . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 APPENDIX
Sidebar:Stacking Modifiers . .146 Character Sheet . . . . . . .250
Sidebar:Spirits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Attacks of Opportunity .147
Mage Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Attack Roll Modifiers . .147 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251
Magister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Cover and Concealment .148 Open Game License . . . . .254
Oathsworn . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Inflicting Damage . . . . . .149
Sidebar:Oathsworn and tools . .45 Death, Dying, and
Sidebar:More Sample Oaths . . .47 Healing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150
Introduction 3
A World of Possibilities
Take another look at the cover ofthis book.It shows an orrery:a mechanical three-dimensional depiction ofthe universe.
Or at least,a universe.The whole thing is made up ofinterconnected spheres rotating around a central core.Within each sphere,
we see a unique and independent aspect ofthe universe—a being or beings.Each sphere helps make up the whole.
The whole is defined by the individual pieces:the spheres.
The cover serves as a metaphor for this book.Monte Cook’s 6.Equipment:This chapter gives you new types ofarmor—
Arcana Unearthed attempts to represent a universe through including exotic armor—new weapons,new alchemical substances,
rules.The rules are broken down into individual pieces— plus all the basics.
classes,races,feats,skills,spells—all to make characters.The rules 7.Playing the Game:The core structure ofthe game remains
that define how characters are created and how they act define the familiar to established roleplayers,with a few variant twists for
world as a whole. experienced players,or for those who simply want to take advan-
Just as you can view an orrery from any angle,you can come at tage ofadvanced development ofthe rules.Ofspecial interest is a
this book from many directions.Whether you want a supplement to hero point system that allows players to accomplish amazing tasks.
your existing game,or a whole new game,Arcana Unearthedgives you 8.Magic:Anyone who’s a little tired ofthe traditional “prepare,
what you need.Most likely you are already familiar with the central then cast” method ofhandling spells will love the ability to alter a
core around which the contents ofthis book revolve,but rest assured spell’s power and weave together minor spells into larger ones.Also,
that each individual sphere ofthe orrery—each piece ofthe game— spell templates let you customize spells to fit your character.
is new and fresh.All the pieces come come together to provide a 9.Spells:This book offers hundreds ofnew spells,each complete
surprisingly original universe.Keep reading.You’ll see what I mean. with guidelines for heightening and diminishing its effects and for
What Is This Book? creating a magic item from it.
Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthedis a handbook for people who want to Bonus source material and ideas to augment the information in
play a fantasy roleplaying game.It contains all the information you Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthedappear on my website.Find the links
need to create a character,fight foes,cast spells,and play out adven- to these free web enhancements at the book’s product page online
tures.Although this book is a stand-alone work,you can use it along- at <www.montecook.com/mpress_MHB1.html>.
side other player’s handbooks,mixing and matching the races,class- This rulebook is protected content except for items specifically
es,skills,feats,spells,and even some ofthe rules,ifyou wish.This called out as Open Game Content on the title page.For full details,
book will expand your available roleplaying options dramatically. please turn to page 254.Open content is not otherwise marked in
It should be noted that this book is intended for those who have the text ofthis book.
already played roleplaying games in the past.Beginners looking for What Other Books
a simplistic,tutorial-style game book should look elsewhere.This is
an advanced rulebook. Do I Need?
What’s Inside?
In theory,you don’t need any other books.Monte Cook’s Arcana
Here’s what you’ll find in each chapter ofArcana Unearthed: Unearthed contains all you need to play the game.However,you will
1.Abilities:All you need to know about Strength,Intelligence, find mentions ofsome basic game concepts (such as certain condi-
and a character’s other abilities. tions or specific magic items) explained more fully in the DMG.
2.Races:Nine all-new races,plus humans.Some ofthe races You will also read some references to monsters found in the MM.
have special racial level progressions you can take like classes to The setting that serves as a backdrop for the new rules in Arcana
gain unique racial abilities.Most ofthem start out as viable 1st-level Unearthedis called Dor-Erthenos,the Lands ofthe Diamond Throne.
characters,either with traditional classes or racial levels. Ifyou’d like more setting details,look for The Diamond Throne from
3.Classes:Eleven brand-new core classes.They are balanced to work Malhavoc Press.This sourcebook contains prestige classes,magic
together and created to be complete in this book,covering all the tradi- items,and monsters intended to be used with the rules in this book.
tional “roles” you enjoy in a fantasy game,but in an a very different way. It also contains more background material regarding the setting
4.Skills:This chapter provides some new takes on skills and where all these giant warmains,sibeccai oathsworn,and verrik witch-
clears up some problem areas found in other games. es live.Ofcourse,the book is written so that you can design your
5.Feats and Talents:In addition to traditional types offeats, own campaign world with it,creating your own setting filled with
this chapter offers two new types:the talent,a special ability you unfettered,akashics,sprytes,litorians,and so on.
can choose only at the start ofthe game,and the ceremonial feat, The rules in this book are entirely compatible with other fantasy
which you can choose only after performing certain rituals. roleplaying supplements you might already own.In fact,Monte
4 Monte Cook’sArcanaUnearthed
Complex Races and Classes
Cook’s Arcana Unearthed DM’s Screen and Player’s Guideoffers con-
versions to help you translate your existing campaign material,as Do the giants have a right to rule just because they freed the other races
well as character sheets and an extra-wide horizontal screen.Plague from slavery? Can a sibeccai ever be free ofher self-imposed feelings
ofDreamsfrom Fiery Dragon Productions andSiege on Ebonring ofindebtedness to the giants? Why does a mojh choose to give up its
Keepfrom Mystic Eye Games offer introductory adventures,but you humanity? Just what is it that makes the verrik such ciphers? Each race
can also use fantasy adventures meant to go along with the core you meet in this book comes with a complex set ofinherent questions.
rules.Monster books like the Creature Collectionseries and Tome of As previously stated,the reliance on ritual suggests that charac-
Horrorsfrom Sword & Sorcery can add a nice variety,and Counter ters are very aware oftheir place in the world.Many character class-
Collection IV: The World ofthe Diamond Thronefrom Fiery Dragon es assume such a connection with the setting:Champions repre-
Productions adds to the gaming experience with full-color coun- sent a cause,oathsworn swear an oath about some specific task,an
ters.Ifminiatures are more your style,check out the Arcana akashic’s abilities come from the memories ofothers,and green-
Unearthedline from Iron Wind Metals. bonds are tied directly to the land itself.Characters ofany class
Themes must contend with concerns much larger than themselves.
Giving Power Back to DMs
Those ofyou familiar with previous Malhavoc Press products know
that I like to play around with various ideas and build upon cohesive The core rules ofthe 3rd Edition Player’s Handbookwere written to be
themes.Here are some ofthe themes I’ve grasped onto in this book: as simple as possible—with very little need or room for DM adjudica-
tion.Arcana Unearthedis intended for gamemasters,or DMs,with a
Oaths and Ceremonies
little experience,who are fully capable ofmaking judgment calls and
Arcana Unearthedsuggests a world in which people take rituals very sensible rulings.This isn’t to say that a careful eye didn’t watch over
seriously,and ceremonies constitute an important part ofevery the balance and playability ofthese rules.But that same careful eye
aspect ofa person’s life.One imagines that characters in this world also made sure not to overdefine concepts or regulate them too
have short rituals to perform before they eat or sleep.Daily cere- heavy-handedly.DMs have room to make the game their own.
monies cleanse the mind and refresh the soul.In game terms,big
Tailor-Made Characters
important ceremonies provide characters with powerful feats and
tie into class and race abilities. Players can easily adapt many ofthe classes in this book to make
Oaths,similarly,carry much weight and seriousness as well.The them more like what they envision for their characters.One can
folk ofthe Lands ofthe Diamond Throne take things like oaths, quickly create different types ofchampions,totem warriors,or
honor,and duty very seriously,as you can see from such character witches,for example.Multiclassing has no restrictions.Any race
classes as the oathsworn and the champion. is equally suited to any class.
Through ceremony,people realize the importance ofthat which A world ofpossibilities awaits.
lies beyond themselves.By placing importance on oaths,duty,and New Concepts
honor,they recognize the importance ofthat which lies within
themselves. Although this book obviously offers new races,classes,spells,and
so on,those ofyou familiar with the existing core rules will notice
Character Choice vs. Destiny
that in Arcana Unearthed,I’ve introduced a lot ofnew concepts even
Although chance and fate seem to guide one’s life at times,Arcana among rules that are,in general,already established.
Unearthedassumes a world where freedom ofchoice is more impor- Racial Levels.With the concept ofracial levels,a character can
tant than the unknown whims offortune or the predestined plans focus on advancing within the nature ofher race and racial abili-
ofimmortal beings.Characters choose to become mojh,sprytes,or ties,rather than taking levels in a class.
runechildren.Oathsworn choose their own oaths,and fulfill them Talents.Talents are feats that one can take only at 1st level.Some
because they want to.Champions pick their causes,totem warriors things you are simply born with.
choose their totem spirits,and witches decide their witchery mani- Ceremonial Feats.New ceremony feats grant supernatural abili-
festations for themselves.Characters wishing to become great war- ties bequeathed through the performance ofcertain rituals.The rit-
riors can select the path ofunfettered or the warmain. uals require expensive components and the help ofothers.
In this world,characters make their own decisions—and they Spell Flexibility.Spells in Arcana Unearthedare not just set,
must live with the consequences.They have no game system to dic- unchangeable programs,but flexible,customizable options for play-
tate their actions (and reactions),so they must take responsibility ers.Each spell can be diminished or heightened to produce a spec-
for their own behavior. trum ofeffects.It can be laden to hold more power.It can be woven
with other spells to cast a more powerful spell.Adding spell tem-
Contrast and Opposition
plates can change the nature ofa spell and its effects.Casters can
Characters range from the tiny spryte to the massive giants.For every add in new material components to change the effects.Magic is
champion oflife there is a champion ofdeath.There are more con- fluid and subject to the whims ofthe individual caster,thus it
trasting oppositions in a fantasy milieu than just good versus evil. remains always mysterious and fascinating.
Introduction 5
Hero Points.This rules subset allows players to take special,
desperate actions not normally possible under the rules.Hero About the Author
points allow game play to more closely resemble fictional stories in Monte Cookstarted working professionally in the game industry in 1988. In
the employ of Iron Crown Enterprises, he worked on the Rolemasterand
which the main characters perform some amazing feat just at the
Championsgames as an editor, developer, and designer. In 1994 Monte came
right moment.They also encourage heroic play. to TSR as a game designer. As a senior game designer with Wizards of the
Coast, he codesigned the new edition of Dungeons & Dragons, authored the
“Death’s Door” Rules.Although a bit more complicated than the
Dungeon Master’s Guide, and designed the Book of Vile Darkness
standard rules,the guidelines in Arcana Unearthedgoverning how and the d20 version of Call of Cthulhu. For WizKids Games,
he designed the HeroClixsystem of superhero combat.
long an injured character can stand before he drops allow the system
A graduate of the Clarion West writer’s workshop, Monte also has published
to simulate tough characters who are “wounded,but still fighting.”
short stories and two novels. In his spare time he runs games, builds vast
Before You Start… dioramas out of LEGO building bricks, and reads a lot of comics.
Malhavoc Press
Keep these important rules concepts and assumptions in mind as
Malhavoc Pressis Monte’s game imprint devoted to the publication
you read through Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthed:
of unusual magic, monsters, and evocative game elements that go beyond
traditional fantasy. Malhavoc Press products exhibit the mastery of the
Dice Notation
3rd Edition rules that only one of its original designers can offer.
The rules in this book use the following die notations: Other Malhavoc Press titles in the Arcana Unearthedline include
The Diamond Throne,a setting book containing source material, monsters,
d4 = four-sided die d10 = ten-sided die magic items, and more, and Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthed DM’s Screen and
d6 = six-sided die d12 = twelve-sided die Player’s Guide, which includes a three-panel horizontal screen, character
sheets, and rules to convert your 3rd Edition and Revised 3rd Edition material
d8 = eight-sided die d20 = twenty-sided die into these rules. Most current titles are available to purchase in either print
d% = percentile dice or electronic (PDF) format at <www.montecook.com>.
About the Illustrators
Die rolls are expressed in the format:
Cover artist Mark Zugearly discovered the power of pencil and paper to bring
[#] die type [+/– modifiers] to life things not available to the senses—dinosaurs, super heroes, starships,
Example: 3d6 + 2 means:“Roll three six-sided dice.Add the and races of ancient astronauts. After working as a machinist and flirting with
a musical career, he put himself through art school. His first big break came
result ofthe three dice together.Then add 2.” illustrating Harlan Ellison’s I, Robotscreenplay, for which he also did 160
pages of fully painted comics. To date, his work has appeared on the covers
Rounding Fractions of numerous magazines, fantasy novels, and game products. He has been
nominated for a Chesley Award and received the Jack Gaughan Award for Best
In general,ifyou wind up with a fraction,round down,even ifthe Emerging Artist in 2001. Visit <www.markzug.com>to see more of his work.
fraction is one-halfor larger. Toren “MacBin” Atkinsonis known by night as the lead singer of the Cthulhu
rock band, The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets, but by day he collects
Exception:Certain rolls,such as damage and hit points,have a Saturday morning cartoons and draws monsters for money. You’ve seen his
minimum of1. work in the award-winning books Delta Green andDeath in Freeport. His illus-
trations also appear in If Thoughts Could Kill, Book of Eldritch Might II: Songs
Multiplying and Souls of Power, Skreyn’s Register: The Bonds of Magic, and Mindscapes.
You can see more of his art as well as his game design
in the Spaceship Zeroroleplaying game.
Sometimes a special rule makes you multiply a number or a die roll.
David Hendeeis a California artist with a degree in Architecture from
As long as you’re applying a single multiplier,multiply the number UC Berkeley. He worked as a drafter for a year before branching out as a level
normally.When two or more multipliers apply,however,combine designer and modeler for video games. In 1994 he joined some friends in the
Web industry and rode the wave of the dot-com boom and bust. Not wanting
them into a single multiple,with each extra multiple adding 1 less to sink with the ship, he left the industry in 2000 to pursue a career as a
than its value to the first multiple.Thus,a double (× 2) and a freelance illustrator. You can find his illustrations in products from such
publishers as Natural 20 Press, Backara d20, and Gilded Moose Games.
double (× 2) applied to the same number results in a triple (× 3, See more of his work at his website <www.davidhendee.com>.
because 2 + 1 = 3). Jennifer Meyer,sometimes considered a wonderer, currently resides in
the mountains of Utah. This is her first product with Malhavoc Press.
Basic Task Resolution System You can also see her work in books from Green Ronin, Sovereign
Press, and Goodman Games. Check out her online portfolio
These rules assume a standardized system for determining the <http://home.earthlink.net/~tabykat/main.html>.
success or failure ofany given task.That system is as follows: Stephen Shepherdis a Florida-based artist who got his start with Malhavoc
Press, illustrating Book of Eldritch Might II: Songs and Souls of Powerand
d20 roll + any modifiers vs.a target number
Demon God’s Fane. He has worked on a number of books for Mongoose
The modifiers and target number are determined by the type of Publishing and Troll Lord Games, as well as many others. He lives with his
supportive wife, Julie, and his inspirational daughter Andi. He is currently
task.Ifthe result ofthe d20 roll plus the modifiers equals or plotting world domination. Visit his website at <http://voodoo.home.sapo.pt/>.
exceeds the target number,the task is successful.Any other result
Sam Woodfirst crept out of the mists and rain of southeast Alaska and infil-
means a failure.For example,on a saving throw or a skill check,the trated Wizards of the Coast back in 1995. Since then he has been a few
places, gotten himself educated, and done a number of different jobs for
target number is the Difficulty Class (DC).In an attack roll,the
Wizards. Sam’s earliest work in the game industry was for the BattleTechTCG.
target number is the Armor Class (AC) ofthe opponent. He has since gone on to work on games like Dungeons & Dragons, Magic:
The Gathering, Alternity, Doomtown, Legend of the Five Rings, and Chainmail.
A “natural 20” on the die roll is not an automatic success.A
His most recent notable contributions have been collaborating with Todd
“natural 1” on the die roll is not an automatic failure.The excep- Lockwood on D&D (spikes and all) and concepting the vast majority of the
Chainmailminiatures. He currently resides in north Seattle with
tions to this are attack rolls and saving throws.
his lovely wife, 3.7 cats, and the family hellhound.
6 Monte Cook’sArcanaUnearthed
Creating Characters
“Humans” in Chapter Two).Only starting characters can choose
More than anything,this book is a guide to help you create fantasy talents,so consider them carefully.You can’t go back and get a tal-
characters.It also offers the rules you need to have these characters ent later.You’ll find feats and talents described in Chapter Five.
take on challenges,such as casting spells and engaging in combat. Add your selections to your character sheet where indicated.
When creating a player character (PC),use a photocopy ofthe 6.Figure hit points.Each class has an associated Hit Die listed
character sheet on page 250 and follow these steps: in Chapter Three.Assume that you rolled the highest number on
1.Come up with a concept.This is the most important step.Don’t the die,then add your Constitution modifier to the total.The result
think in terms ofgame mechanics or stereotypes.Come up with your is your hit point total at 1st level.Note it on your character sheet.
own idea for a character.Don’t use easy hooks like “good” and “evil,” 7.Buy equipment.Roll 4d4 and multiply the result by 10.That’s
but imagine a realistic personality and outlook.Think in terms ofthe your starting amount ofgold pieces to buy equipment.You’ll proba-
character’s background,his goals,and his likes and dislikes. bly want to make sure you get a weapon (or perhaps two—one for
2.Roll ability scores.Roll 4d6 six times.Drop the lowest die each melee and one for ranged attacks) and maybe some armor,but that
time and assign the totals as you wish to your ability scores.(See depends on your class.See the equipment listed in Chapter Six.
Chapter One:Abilities.) While you do this,flip ahead to Chapters Once you’ve listed your equipment on your character sheet,you can
Two and Three to be aware ofhow your ability scores will affect your also determine your Armor Class and carrying capacity.
race and class.For example,a witch with a low Wisdom score won’t 8.Complete your character sheet.Now that you know your
be as effective as one with a character’s basic abilities and skills,and you have an idea ofwhat
No Alignments high Wisdom score.It’s up to he owns and what he can do,you can fill out the rest ofyour char-
There are no alignments in Arcana Unearthed you,however.Use a pencil as acter sheet.Name your character,and jot down some details about
into which you must shoehorn your character’s you write your ability scores his background,age,appearance,and personal goals.
outlook. This rulebook does not attempt to
define good or evil, nor does it address law or on your character sheet,so Gaining Levels
chaos. Characters should decide for themselves you can switch them around
what is good and what is evil, the way real
people do. There are no spells that reveal later ifyou need to. You gain new levels by earning experience points (XP),as described
whether a character is evil or good—his actions 3.Choose a race and a at the beginning ofChapter Three.When your character has earned
and the perspectives of those around him deter-
mine that. No (or at least very few) characters class.This step often takes enough experience points to advance a level,follow these steps:
think of themselves as evil. The truth is, such place after you roll the dice 1.Choose class or racial level.When you gain a level,the most
concepts are relative.
in Step 2 but before you common thing to do is to take the next highest level in your current
Yet even without alignments, villains still do
assign the scores to abilities. class.However,you are free to take the first level in another class
terrible things to further their own goals.
Heroes still make great sacrifices to stop them. However,do it the way it (or sprytes,giants,litorians,mojh,sibeccai,and verrik can choose a
The classic conflicts all remain. But now there
feels most natural.Don’t racial level instead).Taking levels in two or more classes is called
are even more. Two noble and altruistic
characters might oppose each other. Their forget that many races have multiclassing.You can advance in as many classes as you wish,but
personal ideologies might even cause each
classlike racial levels that you can only gain a level in one class at a time.
of them to define the other as “evil.”
you can take in lieu ofup to 2.Apply changes to base attack bonus,base saving throw
Characters with a conscience still act responsi-
bly, and those with a code of conduct still three levels ofa standard modifiers,and spells.Refer to the chart associated with the class
adhere to it: having no alignment is not an
class.Refer to Chapter Two: for your new base attack bonus,saving throw modifiers,and spell
excuse for all characters to act wantonly. As in
the real world, things are much more interesting Races and Chapter Three: slots and spells readied per day (ifany).
if there are not nine alignments but, in fact, an
Classes.After you choose, 3.Record new class abilities (ifany).Many classes gain special
infinite number of them—each character
becomes his own alignment. fill in the appropriate spaces abilities when they acquire a new level.
on your character sheet with 4.Ifthe level is 3rd,6th,9th,12th,15th,or 18th,choose a new feat.
special racial and class abili- All characters get a new feat at these levels.Some characters gain addi-
ties,your base attack bonus, tional bonus feats based on their class.This feat can be a general feat,
initiative modifier,and sav- an item creation feat or a ceremonial feat—but remember that the
ing throw modifiers.If ceremony requires costly components,time,and often aid from others.
you’ve chosen to play a spellcasting character,jot down the spells 5.Ifthe level is 4th,8th,12th,or 16th,add a point to one abili-
you’d like to have ready to cast,as well as your available number of ty score.At these levels,you can add 1 point to any ability score you
spell slots and the Difficulty Class ofeach level ofspell. choose.Ifthe change alters your modifier,make sure you change all
4.Buy skills.Every class has a number ofstarting skill points other relevant scores,such as skill bonuses,saving throw bonuses,
you can use to buy skills for your character.Remember that class attack bonuses,and so on.
skills cost 1 point per rank,and all other skills cost 2 points per 6.Buy skills.Use your class’ skill points to buy new skills.
rank.Select your skills from those described in Chapter Four and Remember that class skills cost 1 point per rank and all other skills
note them on your character sheet. cost 2 points per rank.
5.Choose feats and talents.Every character starts out with at 7.Roll for hit points.Each class has an associated Hit Die.Roll
least two feats;one ofthem might be a ceremonial feat,and one or the die,add your Constitution modifier to the result,and add that
both might be a talent.Humans get an additional starting feat (see result to your current hit point total.
Chapter One 7
Abilities
Strength.Dexterity.Constitution.Intelligence.Wisdom.Charisma.These are the most essential building blocks ofa character.
Each ofthese six abilities measures some fundamental and unique aspect ofa character.Not everyone can have a high score in each
one—ability scores represent weaknesses as well as strengths.Warriors command great Strength and Constitution,while spellcasters
possess a high Intelligence or Wisdom.Occasionally,however,a warrior such as an unfettered has a high Dexterity or Intelligence.
A magister’s high Constitution score represents an uncharacteristically high stamina.
Ability Modifiers
Ability scores both define stereotypes and allow characters
to deviate from them and become unique individuals. Each ability has an accompanying modifier.The modifier is the
Every character has six basic abilities,each ofwhich has a number you add to or subtract from the result ofa die roll when
score,normally ranging from about 3 to 18.The average score for your character tries to do something related to that ability.A positive
a human is 10 or 11. modifier is called a bonus,and a negative modifier is called a penalty.
Strength (Str) shows how physically strong your character is. You can calculate the modifier using this formula:
Someone with a Strength of3 is so feeble he can barely carry his (ability ÷2) – 5 [round result down]
own weight.Someone with a Strength of18 has strength ofgreat This means you could show the range ofability modifiers as a
renown.The giants have great Strength. table,like this one:
Dexterity (Dex)shows how quick and deft your character is.
Someone with a Dexterity of3 is known for inept clumsiness, Ability Score Modifier
while someone with a Dexterity of18 is incredibly nimble and 0 0
fast.The races oflitorians and quickling faen are known for 1 –5
their Dexterity. 2–3 –4
Constitution (Con)shows how healthy and hearty your charac- 4–5 –3
ter is.A character with a Constitution of3 is sickly and frail. 6–7 –2
Someone with a Constitution of18 is fit,never sick,and can take a 8–9 –1
lot ofphysical punishment.Sibeccai have great Constitution. 10–11 0
Intelligence (Int)shows how smart your character is.Someone 12–13 +1
with an Intelligence of3 can barely form a completesentence,while 14–15 +2
someone with an Intelligence of18 is a genius.The races ofmojh 16–17 +3
and loresong faen are very intelligent. 18–19 +4
Wisdom (Wis)shows how perceptive,intuitive,and willful your 20–21 +5
character is.Someone with a Wisdom of3 is regarded by everyone 22–23 +6
as a fool,unaware ofhalfthe things going on around him. 24–25 +7
Someone with a Wisdom of18 is canny and insightful,usually dif- 26–27 +8
ficult to fool.Verrik are very wise. 28–29 +9
Charisma (Cha) shows your character’s strength ofpersonality. 30–31 +10
It also involves both personal magnetism and physical beauty.A etc.
character with a Charisma of3 is horrible and hideous.Someone Using Ability Scores
with a Charisma of18 is charming,forceful,persuasive,and proba-
bly good looking. Your characters will use their ability scores all the time to overcome
Determining Ability Scores obstacles and resist threats.
Strength
Although the normal human range is 3 to 18,ability scores range
from 0 to infinity.Thus,to determine your character’s ability Any creature that can physically manipulate other objects has at
scores,roll 4d6,discard the lowest die,and total the remaining least 1 point ofStrength.
three dice.Generate six such scores and then arrange them among A character adds his Strength modifier to melee attack and
the six abilities as you desire. damage rolls,and to damage rolls when using a thrown weapon.
Different character classes benefit from having high results in Skills requiring physical power,such as Climb or Jump,use
certain ability scores,and certain races modify ability scores,so Strength modifiers to adjust the skill bonus.Strength is used to
refer to Chapters Two and Three for more information and ideas determine carrying capacity (see “Using Strength:Carrying
on how to best arrange your scores. Capacity” on page 10).
8 Monte Cook’sArcanaUnearthed
A creature with no Strength score can’t exert force,usually his Constitution modifier,his hit points also increase or decrease
because it has no physical body or because it doesn’t move.The accordingly at the same time.
creature automatically fails Strength checks.Ifthe creature can A creature with no Constitution has no body or no metabolism.
attack,it applies its Dexterity modifier to its base attack instead It is immune to any effect that requires a Fortitude save unless the
ofits Strength modifier. effect works on objects.Such a creature is also immune to ability
damage,ability drain,and energy drain,and always fails
Dexterity
Constitution checks.
Any creature that can move has at least 1 point ofDexterity.
Intelligence
A character adds her Dexterity modifier to her Armor Class and
to attack rolls when using a ranged weapon.Skills requiring agility, Any creature that can think,learn,or remember has at least 1 point
such as Open Lock or Balance,use Dexterity modifiers to adjust the ofIntelligence.A character adds her Intelligence modifier to her
skill bonus.A character also adds her Dexterity modifier to her skill points when she gains them at each level.Skills requiring acute
Reflex saving throw bonus. intellect,such as Knowledge or Appraise,use Intelligence modifiers
A creature with no Dexterity score can’t move.Ifit can act,it to adjust the skill bonus.Magisters and runethanes with high
applies its Intelligence modifier to initiative checks instead ofits Intelligence gain extra spells (see “Abilities and Spellcasters” on page
Dexterity modifier.Such a creature fails all Reflex saves and 9),and they must have good Intelligence scores to cast spells at all.
Dexterity checks. A creature with no Intelligence score is an automaton,operating
on simple instincts or programmed instructions.It is immune to all
Constitution
mind-influencing effects (charms,compulsions,phantasms,and
Any living creature has at least 1 point ofConstitution. morale effects) and automatically fails Intelligence checks.
A character adds his Constitution modifier to his Hit Die when
Wisdom
he rolls for hit points at each level.Skills requiring stalwart stami-
na,such as Concentration,use Constitution modifiers to adjust the Any creature that can perceive its environment in any fashion has
skill bonus.A character also adds his Constitution modifier to at least 1 point ofWisdom.Skills requiring
his Fortitude saving throw bonus. insight or perception,such as Spot and Sense
Ifa character’s Constitution changes enough to alter Motive,use Wisdom modifiers to adjust the
Chapter One:Abilities 9
skill bonus.Witches and greenbonds with high Wisdom gain extra • Dexterity 0 means the character cannot move at all.He
spells (see “Abilities and Spellcasters,” below),and they must have stands motionless,rigid,and helpless.
good Wisdom scores to cast spells at all.A character also adds his • Constitution 0 means the character is dead.
Wisdom modifier to his Will saving throw bonus. • Intelligence 0 means the character cannot think and
Anything with no Wisdom score is an object,not a creature. remains unconscious in a comalike stupor,helpless.
Anything without a Wisdom score also has no Charisma score, • Wisdom 0 means the character has withdrawn into a deep
and vice versa. sleep filled with nightmares,helpless.
• Charisma 0 means the character has withdrawn into a
Charisma
catatonic,comalike stupor,helpless.
Any creature capable oftelling the difference between itselfand
things that are not itselfhas at least 1 point ofCharisma. Keeping track ofnegative ability score points is never necessary.
Skills requiring force ofpersonality or charm,such as Intimidate A character’s ability score can’t drop below 0.
and Gather Information,use Charisma modifiers to adjust the skill It is possible for a creature to have an ability score of“none.” A
bonus.Mage blades with high Charisma gain extra spells (see score of“none” is not the same as a score of“0.” A score of“none”
“Abilities and Spellcasters,” below),and they must have good means that the creature does not possess the ability at all.The
Charisma scores to cast spells at all. modifier for a score of“none” is +0.
Anything with no Charisma score is an object,not a creature. Abilities and
Anything without a Charisma score also has no Wisdom score,
and vice versa. Spellcasters
Scores of 0 and None
The casting capability ofeach spellcaster class depends on a specific
One or more ofa character’s ability scores might fall to 0 during ability,as described for that class.Ifa character’s score in this key
the course ofan adventure.The results are as follows: ability is 9 or lower,the character can’t cast spells tied to that ability.
• Strength 0 means the character cannot move at all.He lies Characters get bonus spell slots and bonus spells they can ready
helpless on the ground. based on this key ability.Find the number appropriate to your
BONUS SPELLS
Bonus Spell Slots and Spells Readied (by Spell Level)
Score 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1 Can’t cast spells tied to this ability
2–3 Can’t cast spells tied to this ability
4–5 Can’t cast spells tied to this ability
6–7 Can’t cast spells tied to this ability
8–9 Can’t cast spells tied to this ability
10–11 — — — — — — — — — —
12–13 1 1 — — — — — — — —
14–15 1 1 1 — — — — — — —
16–17 1 1 1 1 — — — — — —
18–19 1 1 1 1 1 — — — — —
20–21 2 2 1 1 1 1 — — — —
22–23 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 — — —
24–25 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 — —
26–27 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 —
28–29 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1
30–31 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1
32–33 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1
34–35 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1
36–37 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2
38–39 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 2
40–41 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 2
42–43 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 2
44–45 5 5 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3
etc....
