Wizards are the subject of much debate and heated conversation in many parts of Samoth, particularly in Buchlayne Major where they are nearly outlawed by the Universal Aetonist faith. In other parts of the world, the reputation of a wizard is looked upon in varying degrees of suspicion. Some countries, however, have embraced the wizard for the immense hours of study and dedication it takes to master the arcane arts, and look to them for advice and information. Many wizards get their funds for continued spell research from such advisor-roles. All wizards are trained by a Master, some with more ability and compassion than others. As a newly freed apprentice, you should make some notes about your previous Master, such his personality type, the type of magick in which he specialized, and the morals he taught to your about using magick responsibly.
Zhivod Astrologer (Variant): As an astrologer, you are a source of information and fortune-telling for the common people. As your reputation grows, you may even end up as an advisor in the court of the Caliph. Astrologers are part mystic, part showman, and oftentimes charlatan. How you want to play your particular astrologer is up to you. Zhivod has a long tradition of astrologers, and there is most certainly a Master available to train you in the type of astrology you would like to study. Learn well, and one day you may be able to pass your skills onto another.
Suggested Skills: Knowledge (Arcana), Knowledge (Astrology), Spellcraft
Suggested Feats: Astrology Student, Zodiac Spellcasting
Suggested PrCs: High Astrologer (Relics & Rituals II)
Other Classes
With GM approval, certain other classes may be appropriate for a World of Samoth campaign. The statistics for some of these classes are found here, while others can be found in various D20 sourcebooks. Descriptions and the roles of some of these classes are noted below.
Note that many of these alternate classes can be played with the standard classes (such as Cleric or Druid in place of Shaman or a Fighter or Paladin in place of Samurai). The information presented below in the character concepts below would still be appropriate.
Shaman
The shaman can be found throughout the more uncivilized areas of Samoth, acting as spiritual leaders for barbarian tribes or as lone hermits leaving ascetic lives in remote regions. Shamans are found mainly in the outlying areas of the Supreme Empire (particularly in the Chu Province) and in Atkira. There are also a few shamans in the Lugalate of Nur, and in Kovlich and Margova. Their deep connection with the spirit world frightens some and entrances others. Many shamans are unable to handle their spiritual gifts and not a few are known to have become mentally unstable.
Chu Dreamseer (Variant): You are part of a nomadic group of horsemen in the dusty deserts of Chu. The Emperor mostly leaves your people alone except when he requires cavalry to bring the other provinces into line. Since the consolidation of the Supreme Empire, however, wars have been almost non-existent and you are now free to tend to the spiritual needs of your people. The Shamans of Chu have long been seers of great power by interpreting dreams. Of late, however, your dreams and interaction with the spirit world have become dark, and you have left to find the answers that you can't find by staying with your tribe.
Suggested Skills: Knowledge (Spirits), Heal, Ride, Knowledge (Religion -Chu Animism), Dreaming (Special)
Suggested Feats: Craft Fetish, Craft Charm, Totem (Horse)
Suggested PrCs: Dreamer (Shaman's Handbook)
Samurai
The samurai class is part of the nobility of the Supreme Empire. They have powerful martial abilities that make them indispensable for the Emperor. There are few samurai outside of the Supreme Empire, but some can be found among the Sepoy Kpeshiya of Verundhi. The Belling of the Lugalate of Nur also have a tradition very similar to the Samurai of the Supreme Empire.
Lone Wolf (Variant): A samurai without a lord, you are known as Ronin. Many such lordless samurai are sellswords, but you have chosen a different path by becoming a protector of the weak and helpless. The lower classes are treated poorly by the aristocracy in the Supreme Empire, and you have decided to try to change that. Your chosen path will be difficult, for not only will you need to fight to protect the innocent, but you will constantly be hunted by the ruling classes of the Supreme Empire as an outlaw.
Suggested Skills: Ride, Weapon Focus, Improved Unarmed Strike
Suggested Feats: Mounted Combat, Mounted Archery, Dodge, Spring Attack
Suggested PrCs: Ronin (Quintessential Samurai)
Other Alternate Classes: Shugenja (Elemental Imperial Bhuwani Rishis of the Sun Court in the Supreme Empire), Sohei (Temple Guardian of the Bhuwani Faith), Witch (primitive nature spellcaster)
