An Occult Primer is an introductory text to enable the non indoctrinated to learn and understand the basics of an occult process or power. Assuming the Primer is used on a New Character, it takes no additional time. Otherwise: Significant time to acquire/achieve outside of Character Inception.
Outcome: A character studying a Primer makes a Codex (spell book) for themselves, reflecting the Occult Primer’s Knowledge Outcome and the perspective under which they practiced – translating it to something others could use is difficult.
SIGNIFICANT EXPERIENCE: Reference works and basic exposure alone may only provide the foundation for gaining a [mechanics based] advantage. To reflect the practice and experience to gain that benefit consistently, typically requires a cost in Character Points.
d20 Requirements: Intelligence of 10 to use a Primer.
Class Based achievement, or Magic Initiate Feat
Magic Initiate (Feat): Wizard, Bard, or Sorcerer spells (only). The process takes +1 years (add to character’s age). The character must make a DC 10 Intelligence check to become capable enough to reliably be able to use the powers. If they fail, they must continue to learn for another 6 month time period, until they succeed at the check. Druid and Cleric are covered under Divine Primer.
Class Based: Allows a character to gain 1st Level in a Occult Class: Bard, Sorcerer, Wizard, Warlock, (Occult Slants) Fighter (Eldritch Knight) or Rogue (Arcane Trickster). Acquiring as Multiclass/After Inception: The process takes +4 years (add to character’s age). The character must make a DC 10 Intelligence check to become capable enough to reliably be able to use the powers. If they fail, they must continue to learn for another 6 month time period, until they succeed at the check. HALVE THE TIME IF:
This method overrides the spell mechanism normal for the class in the following ways:
This presents a good opportunity for adding Character Story elements to the Character.
This presents a good opportunity for the Game Master to use character Features as part of an Adventure.