Of Projectors

Projector classes may occur in a wide spectrum of societies, from primitive to very advanced. They represent a seminal aspect of magical exploration -- namely the manifestation of artificial beings from thin air that operate as vessels for the Projector's intellect and will. Through these means a powerful and dynamic body can be made to exist temporarily.

While the projector is operating its false body, its soul is still housed in its true form. The original body is highly vulnerable, being effectively asleep in the deep projection trance. This has lead many projectors to seek the aid of loyal guardians, usually bound by a mystic oath of some sort, who will watch over their master and protect him from enemies.

Example Projectors:

1. The Animal Ghost is instructed from youth to emanate the spirit-form of a particular animal type. Wolf-ghosts and hawk-ghosts are quite common among Stone Age cultures. They maintain strong relationships with the animal life of a particular wilderness. The powers of the animal ghost are relied on by the chieftains of their peoples, and they are often the consorts of augurs. Animal ghosts can walk on water, breathe fire, and pass through non-metal materials. They are especially vulnerable to Sleep and Sleep-like magics, any of which will cause them to vanish and has a 5% chance per level of the caster to send the projector into a coma that will last 1d3 years unless treated by a 6th+ level cleric or priest.

2. The Watcher takes on the form of a many-eyed serpent that can only be harmed by +1 weapons or better. Watchers are typically the minions of more powerful magic-users, kept fat and spoiled until they are commanded to project into serpent-form and investigate some matter. Watchers hide in shadows like a thief three times their level of experience. Their venom causes madness (save allowed).