Pine Baron

The taiga differs greatly from other polar biomes.

Although it still experiences brutally cold weather, devastating winds, and violent storms, life makes its mark in this challenging environment. Unlike the largely desolate tundra and ice cap, trees define the landscape. The coniferous trees stand at the forefront, taking center stage among its plentiful flora. In many respects, these woody giants shape the fabric of this green and white domain, giving refuge to the undergrowth growing in their shadows and an arboreal haven to the forest’s fauna. Astute humanoids also recognize the trees’ vital contribution to this delicate ecosystem. Foremost among them are a branch of wizards known as pine barons. Hailing from the ranks of the indigenous folk who grew up in this rugged area, they meticulously categorized and observed the abundant flora and fauna surrounding their isolated homes. Spurred by their abundant curiosity, they experimented with various endogenous substances extracted from the native plants and animals. Through trial and error, one precocious teenager concocted a potent balm made from the resin and crushed seeds within a pine cone. When she applied the poultice to her skin, the mixture temporarily increased her mental acumen and focus. Over time, others duplicated and refined her original formula, giving rise to a vibrant exchange of insights and ideas within the expanding pine baron community. Because of their affinity for nature, many outsiders mistake pine barons for druids or rangers, an assertion they vigorously protest. They quickly point out that they derive their abilities from their study and understanding of the natural world, rather than from a divine entity empowering them to protect and oversee the wilderness. Nonetheless, these enterprising individuals forego traditional strongholds of knowledge in favor of a pastoral lifestyle in the small villages and towns nestled within the cold forests of the world.

Skills

The pine baron adds Survival to his list of class skills in place of Linguistics. This alters the wizard’s class skills.

Inspiring Resin (Su)

At 1st level, a pine baron learns how to concoct a poultice from a pine tree’s resin and crushed seeds. It takes 1 minute to make the poultice and once crafted, it remains potent until used. If he makes a second poultice, any existing poultices become inert. As a full-round action provoking attacks of opportunity, the pine baron may apply the poultice onto his skin. When he does so, he gains one use of inspiring resin, which functions in a manner similar to the investigator’s inspiration pool.

As a free action, he may add 1d6 to the result of any one ability check, caster level check, concentration check, dispel check, or skill check of his choice he attempts. This choice is made after the check is rolled and before the results are revealed. This ability does not stack with other spells and effects allowing him to reroll the check or otherwise alter the die roll. He cannot apply the poultice again while he has a use of inspiring resin still in effect. He can apply inspiring resin to his skin a number of times per day equal to 1/2 his wizard level + his Intelligence modifier (minimum 1).

Anyone other than the pine baron who applies the poultice to his skin must succeed on a Fortitude save (DC 10 + 1/2 the pine baron’s level + the pine baron’s Intelligence modifier) or suffer 1d6 points of Intelligence damage. No one other than the pine baron who concocted the inspiring resin can gain any benefit from it. This ability replaces arcane bond.

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