Scribes are skilled individuals who possess the ability to read and write with exceptional accuracy and speed. They are highly sought after by various institutions, including governments, military organizations, religious orders, and private individuals who require their services for record keeping, documentation, and communication purposes. Scribes play a vital role in preserving knowledge and facilitating communication in societies where literacy is not widespread.

They undergo rigorous training to develop their exceptional reading, writing, and transcription skills. They study various languages, calligraphy techniques, and specialized scripts. They learn the art of deciphering ancient texts, organizing information, and maintaining accurate records. Scribes often receive their training under the guidance of experienced mentors or in established academies dedicated to the art of writing.

Scribes are distinguished by their profound knowledge of the written word and their ability to quickly transcribe texts with meticulous precision. They possess an extensive understanding of different languages, including ancient and magical scripts. Scribes are adept at creating and interpreting complex codes and ciphers, making them valuable assets in matters of secrecy and espionage. Their expertise extends beyond writing and transcription, as many scribes also possess knowledge in history, literature, and other scholarly disciplines.

Strengths

  • Exceptional Literacy: Scribes have an unrivaled mastery of written language, enabling them to decipher complex texts and languages efficiently.
  • Attention to Detail: Scribes exhibit remarkable attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in their transcriptions and records.
  • Quick Transcription: Scribes can write at an impressive speed while maintaining legibility, allowing them to create multiple copies of texts in a relatively short time.
  • Language Proficiency: Scribes are well-versed in multiple languages and scripts, making them valuable interpreters and translators.

Weaknesses

  • Physical Vulnerability: Scribes typically lack combat training and physical prowess, making them vulnerable in direct confrontations.
  • Limited Combat Abilities: Scribes often rely on their intellectual skills rather than combat prowess, limiting their effectiveness in combat situations.
  • Dependency on Written Information: Scribes heavily rely on written texts and documentation, making them less effective in situations where information is scarce or inaccessible.

Stat Block

Armor Class

Hit PointsSpeed
SkillsSensesLanguages
14 (Light Clothes) 3030 ft.History +8, Investigation +8, Insight +8Passive Perception 10 Common, Elvish, Dwarvish, Gnomish
Saving ThrowsDamage VulnerabilitiesDamage ResistancesDamage ImmunitiesCondition Immunities
Int +8, Wis +8N/AN/AN/AN/A
STRDEXCONINTWISCHA
11 (+0)
12 (+1)
13 (+1)
18 (+4)
16 (+3)
14 (+2)

Abilities:

  • Extraordinary Memory: The Scribe have a great capacity for memorization, being able to recall multiple types of information for a long period. They can accurately recall anything they have seen or heard within the past month.

  • Handy Lexicon: The Scribe can spend 1 hour recording 1 language (Scripture) they have seen used, and can memorize it. Once they have done so, they gain proficiency in that language until they replace it.

  • Supportive Nudge: The Scribe can use the Help action to aid an ally, they can choose to either give advantage to a History or Religion roll if they are within 10 ft.

  • Linguistic Expertise: The Scribe is proficient in multiple languages and has a deep understanding of written communication, allowing them to decipher complex scripts, codes, and ciphers with ease. They have advantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks related to written texts.

Reaction:

  • Scroll Defense: When the Scribe is targeted by a spell or ranged attack, they can use their reaction to unfurl a protective scroll, granting them a +4 bonus to AC against that attack.

Actions:

  • Quill Strike: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage. The scribe can attack with a specially crafted quill, utilizing their accuracy and precision in combat.

  • Ritualistic Records. The Scribe can transcribe up to 3 rituals into one of their tomes that are then considered prepared. They can use an action to recite it to an ally for them to cast granted they have the materials needed.

  • Exceptional Forgery. Depending on the Scribe's standing and morals, they can be convinced to produce near perfect document forgeries. Who needs a Forgery Kit when one has a well versed Scribe.
    • Time. Forging a short, simple document takes about 1 minute. Longer or more complex documents take 1d4 minutes per page or longer.
    • Restriction. Forgery is language-dependent; thus, to forge documents and detect forgeries, the Scribe must be able to read and write the language in question.

Bonus Actions:

  • Read the Room: The scribe quickly assesses the situation and gains advantage on their next Insight check or initiative roll.