Arcana
Arcana represents a character's knowledge and understanding of magic, magical phenomena, supernatural forces, and the mysteries of the arcane. It covers recognising magical effects, identifying magical creatures and objects, understanding magical traditions, and recalling information about the supernatural.Arcana represents knowledge about magic, rather than the ability to cast or manipulate spells. The practical use of magic is covered by Spellcraft.
Skill Levels
0 — Untrained
You have little or no knowledge of magic or supernatural phenomena. You may recognise common magical effects or beliefs that are widely known, but you cannot reliably identify unfamiliar magic or understand its underlying principles.
1 — Novice
You possess a basic understanding of magic and the supernatural. You can recognise common magical effects, identify familiar magical symbols and traditions, and recall basic information about commonly known magical creatures and objects.
2 — Competent
You have a solid working knowledge of magic. You can identify common spells and magical effects, recognise a variety of magical creatures and objects, and understand the basic principles behind different magical traditions.
3 — Skilled
You possess considerable knowledge of magic and supernatural phenomena. You can identify unfamiliar magical effects, understand complex magical principles, and recognise obscure creatures, objects, traditions, and magical practices.
4 — Expert
You possess extensive knowledge of arcane and supernatural subjects. You can identify highly unusual magical phenomena, understand advanced magical principles, and recognise obscure or ancient magical traditions that few others would know.
5 — Master
You possess exceptional mastery of arcane knowledge. Your understanding extends to the deepest and most obscure mysteries of magic and the supernatural. You can identify phenomena that would be incomprehensible to lesser scholars and make connections between magical principles that few others are capable of recognising.
Overcome
Arcana can be used to overcome obstacles that require knowledge or understanding of magic and supernatural phenomena.
Examples include:
- Identifying an unfamiliar magical effect.
- Understanding the purpose of a magical object.
- Recognising the nature of a magical creature.
- Deciphering an arcane symbol or magical text.
- Understanding the properties of a magical location.
- Determining the likely source or nature of a supernatural phenomenon.
- Recalling information about an obscure magical tradition.
Arcana can be used to create an advantage by providing magical knowledge that others lack.
Examples include:
- Identifying a magical weakness that can be exploited by others.
- Explaining the nature of a magical threat to allies.
- Recognising an unfamiliar spell before it is used.
- Determining how a magical object might be safely handled.
- Using knowledge of a magical creature to anticipate its behaviour.
- Preparing others for the effects of a magical phenomenon.
Arcana is not an attack skill.
Arcana represents knowledge and understanding of magic rather than the ability to directly wield it. A character may use Arcana to identify a magical weakness or determine how a magical effect can be countered, but directly attacking with magic is covered by Spellcraft or another appropriate skill.
Defensive
Arcana can be used defensively by recognising and understanding magical threats.
Examples include:
- Identifying a spell or magical effect that threatens you.
- Recognising the properties of a dangerous magical object.
- Identifying a magical creature's abilities or weaknesses.
- Understanding how a magical effect can be avoided or countered.
- Recognising supernatural dangers before they affect you.
- Using knowledge of magic to advise others on how to protect themselves.