Scholar Monk (Character Kit)

Scholar Monk 
Description: Monks of the Dark Ages were deeply spiritual individuals who dedicated their lives to their faith. Many of them became noteworthy scholars during their monastic careers. The Scholar Monk is such an individual. Unlike the related Scholar Priest kit, however, the vows taken by the monks prevent them from either invention or subjective interpretation of the subjects they study. Although this often brings them at odds with the established church, it does make them more respected by kings and others, who view their works as accurate observations rather than yet more religious doctrine. Indeed, it is to the Scholar Monk that 
The Futhark 
The Futhark was the phonetic, runic alphabet used by the Germanic tribes until the introduction of the more familiar Roman alphabet that has been in common usage since the seventh century. The characters of the Futhark, it is thought, were developed from both Roman and Greek sources. They were used not only in writing but also for religious and divination purposes. Each of the twenty-four recognizable runes was assigned a name, a sound that it represented, and a meaning. Some Nordic versions of the set also included a twenty-fifth “blank” rune, used to portray hidden or unknowable subjects when used for divination. The name “Futhark” is derived from the sounds of the first six runes in the set (similar to the way we derive the word “qwerty” from keyboards), as traditionally organized. The order presented here is less traditional bur more pertinent within mystical and religious connotations. The runes of the Anglo-Saxon version of the set, with their names, meanings, phonetic sounds, and the traditional order within the set appear below. Kings and eoldermen often turn to answer questions that they may have with respect to some subject or another. Examples of Scholar Monks in a Dark Ages setting include the venerable Bede and Peter Ellis' literary detective-monk Cadfael. Those interested in medieval detective fiction should see Jon Picken's 
Unlike Scholar Priests, Scholar Monks may discard their kit should they begin to question their faith and their role within the monastery. 
Scholar Monks must have a Wisdom of at least 10 and an Intelligence of 12 or more. They must be Lawful Good or Lawful Neutral. 
Barred: Monks must follow the Christian faith. 
== Role ==
Often, a Scholar Monk travels to visit the subjects he is studying. This may lead them on long journeys of discovery. This, and the respect they command as neutral observers, provides much scope for players wishing to use this kit for their Priest character. 
= Secondary Skills =
Scholar Monks must take the Scribe secondary skill.
Weapon Proficiencies: Although pacifism is generally part of the vows each monk is required to make, carrying a staff for defense is permitted. This is the only weapon a Scholar Monk is permitted to gain proficiency in. 
== Nonweapon Proficiencies ==
Bonus: Reading/Writing (Latin and native tongue). Artistic Ability (illumination and calligraphy).
* Recommended: Agriculture, Ancient History, Astrology, Etiquette, Healing, Herbalism, Local History, Religion, Singing. 
== Equipment ==
A Scholar Monk may own nothing due to his vows. He may be permitted to retain certain items for personal use by his monastery (such as Cadfael's books on herbal lore), but these are exceptions to the rule. Initially, a Scholar Monk character has a staff, his robes, a prayer book, and a simple crucifix, but all of these items remain the property of the monastery rather than the individual monk himself. Scholar Monks may never wear armor. 
== Special Benefits ==
As with Scholar Priests, a Scholar Monk may spend any or all of his weapon proficiency slots on nonweapon proficiencies instead. In addition, a Scholar Monk is never refused food, shelter, or aid by one who follows the Christian faith. If they require coin or equipment to perform some task they have been assigned, they may request the items from the abbot of their monastery, who usually grants such requests unless they are extravagant or the task for which they are to be used is in conflict with the interests of the monastery itself. By the late eighth century, the resources a monastery could draw upon were pretty impressive. 
== Special Hindrances ==
As has been mentioned before, a Scholar Monk may not own any equipment. Monies they gain must be donated, in full, to their monastery. They must also uphold their faith at all times. A lapse means that they lose all spellcasting ability until some form of atonement (usually including the casting of an atonement spell) takes place. 
== Wealth Options ==
Monks do not begin play with any form of monetary wealth. 
== Races ==
Any individual of any race that is willing to take his vows and live a faithful life as a monk may take this kit.
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