Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP
Path: utzoo!linus!decvax!harpo!floyd!whuxle!pyuxll!abnjh!lute
From: lute@abnjh.UUCP (J. Collymore)
Newsgroups: net.games.frp
Subject: New AD&D Character Class (THE PSIONICIST)
Message-ID: <286@abnjh.UUCP>
Date: Fri, 4-Nov-83 09:23:05 EST
Article-I.D.: abnjh.286
Posted: Fri Nov  4 09:23:05 1983
Date-Received: Mon, 7-Nov-83 00:31:50 EST
Lines: 54


			ATTENTION ALL AD&D PLAYERS

Well, they've finally done it!  Created a character class that is a real
challenge, and that will force DM's to start using all those neglected
psionic monsters in the Monster Manual.  I am referring to the new
character class called the PSIONICIST, described in thorough detail in
issue #78 of DRAGON magazine.

This character is a psionics specialist, he/she is allowed no armor, but
decent hit dice and weapons (for survivability).  Acquisition of psi
strength and powers are laid out in a logical fashion.  Also, NEW psi
powers are offered in addition to those in the Player's Handbook.

Almost all of the new powers are based on those of the DERYNI Race.  The
Deryni are the major chacters in Katherine Kurtz's two trilogies:


	Camber of Culdi		High Deryni
	Saint Camber		Deryni Checkmate
	Camber the Heretic	Deryni Rising


Although there are two following articles in Dragon #78 describing the
Deryni, and introducing them as a new NPC, along with descriptions of some
of the Deryni heros and villains in the books; I would strongly recommend
that you read the books first to get a better appreciation for the Deryni
character.  You should probably start with the Camber series.

To give you a little background, the Deryni are a race that although they
look human are genetically different in that they are all born with
psionics.  Usually only those of the nobility or clergy have the opportunity
to be properly trained in the use of there various powers.  A sub-group of
the Deryni (a rare few) are gifted from birth with the additional power of
healing.  They must go to special secular or monastic schools to be trained
how to use their healing ability.  Use of their ability uses up psi strength
points and can be draining, but can be renewed by proper meditation.  
Healers are highly regarded in ALL circles and where bright green cloaks to
show there status.  They also have the ability to know potions, and by sight
or smell know if a potion is a healing one or not.  Also, there are certain
potions that will work on only humans, others, only on Deryni.  The most
fearsome of these is MERASHA; a drug that forces a Deryni to drop his
mental shields, makes him totally stuporous and sick for 4-12 hours 
(depending on the dosage).

All in all, there is now a whole new world of opportunities for the DM and 
player to start using those most awesome powers of all...PSIONICS!

I strongly recommend that you check out this issue of Dragon magazine to get
more details on these new Characters and NPCs.



					Jim Collymore