Person_Man
2013-07-18, 10:09 AM
A player of mine wanted to use the spellthief for a Pathfinder game. But the RAW WotC spellthief sucks for a variety of reasons. So I dramatically rewrote it, keeping intent of the class, but making it much stronger and more versatile. I've playtested, and it's really fun. The class ability descriptions are a bit long and rules lawyer-ish to avoid abuse, but their function is very strait forward. You Backstab someone (melee only Sneak Attack, with nothing immune). As an Immediate Action you Steal a spell or ability. You keep that ability for long enough that it's useful and you don't have to worry about tracking duration. You can use stolen spells instead of charges to power spell trigger magic items (wands and staves). And you have a lot anti-caster abilities. This version was written for a Pathfinder game, but you could just as easily convert it to 3.5 just by changing the Skills.
Pathfinder Spellthief
http://i.annihil.us/u/prod/marvel//universe3zx/images/f/f6/Rogue.jpg
{table=head]Level | BAB | Fort | Ref | Will | Special | Max spell lvl stolen
1st | + 0 | + 0 | + 2 | + 2 | Backstab +1d6, Sense Magic, Steal Spell | 1st
2nd | + 1 | + 0 | + 3 | + 3 | Steal Spell Effect, Spellgrace |
3rd | + 2 | + 1 | + 3 | + 3 | Steal Charges | 2nd
4th | + 3 | + 1 | + 4 | + 4 | Backstab +2d6, Mystic Senses |
5th | + 3 | + 1 | + 4 | + 4 | Steal Ability | 3rd
6th | + 4 | + 2 | + 5 | + 5 | Absorb Spell |
7th | + 5 | + 2 | + 5 | + 5 | Backstab +3d6, Mystic Senses | 4th
8th | + 6 | + 2 | + 6 | + 6 | Steal Ability |
9th | + 6 | + 3 | + 6 | + 6 | Nondetection | 5th
10th | + 7 | + 3 | + 7 | + 7 | Backstab +4d6, Mystic Senses |
11th | + 8 | + 3 | + 7 | + 7 | Steal Ability | 6th
12th | + 9 | + 4 | + 8 | + 8 | Bypass Wards |
13th | + 9 | + 4 | + 8 | + 8 | Backstab +5d6, Mystic Senses | 7th
14th | + 10 | + 4 | + 9 | + 9 | Steal Ability |
15th | + 11 | + 5 | + 9 | + 9 | Dimensional Anchor | 8th
16th | + 12 | + 5 | + 10 | + 10 | Backstab +6d6, Mystic Senses |
17th | + 12 | + 5 | + 10 | + 10 | Steal Ability | 9th
18th | + 13 | + 6 | + 11 | + 11 | Reflect Spell |
19th | + 14 | + 6 | + 11 | + 11 | Backstab +7d6, X-Ray Vision |
20th | + 15 | + 6 | + 12 | + 12 | Steal Essance |
[/table]
Hit Die: d8.
Starting Gold: 4d4 x 10 gp.
Class Skills: A spellthief's class skills (and the key ability for each skill) are Acrobatics (Dex), Appraise (Int), Bluff (Cha), Climb (Str), Craft (Int), Diplomacy (Cha), Disable Device (Dex), Disguise (Cha), Escape Artist (Dex), Intimidate (Cha), Knowledge (all), Linguistics (Int), Perception (Wis), Profession (Wis), Sense Motive (Wis), Sleight of Hand (Dex), Spellcraft (Int), Stealth (Dex), Swim (Str), and Use Magic Device (Cha).
Skill Ranks per Level: 6 + Int modifier.
Class Features:
Weapon and Armor Proficiency: The Spellthief is proficient with all simple and martial weapons and with light armor but not with shields.
Backstab (Ex): The spellthief deals extra damage on any melee attack he makes against any creature which is flanked or denied their Dexterity bonus. This extra damage is 1d6 at 1st level, and increases by 1d6 every three levels thereafter. This bonus damage is never multiplied, and only occurs with melee attacks that deal lethal damage.
Sense Magic (Su): The spellthief can sense any magical objects or auras, as if using the Detect Magic spell, but with a continuous duration. In addition, the spellthief can innately sense whether or not his Steal abilities (see below) would be useful against any creature within range of his ability to Detect Magic (60 feet, unless something blocks or negates the Detect Magic effect). He does not know what he can steal until he activates the respective ability, he only knows which abilities (if any) would be useful to attempt, so that no Steal attempt would ever be wasted. Finally, a spellthief can also use Disable Device to disarm magical traps.
Steal Spell (Su): As an Immediate Action when the spellthief successfully hits and damages an opponent with his Backstab ability, he may also siphon off some of the magical energy away from his target and use it himself. If the target is willing, a spellthief can instead use the Steal Magic ability without dealing any damage with a touch as a Standard Action.
Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spells prepared or known by the target, if any. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spells to steal, but the maximum spell level of the stolen spell must be equal to or lower then the spellthief's class level divided by two, rounded up. (As noted on The Spellthief Table). The target loses that spell from their memory if she prepares spells ahead of time, or one use of the appropriate spell slot if she is a spontaneous caster. If the stolen spell is cast spontaneously (such as spells cast by a sorcerer, or a cantrip cast by any class), the caster also loses the ability to cast the stolen spell for 8 hours.
After stealing a spell, a spellthief can cast the spell himself. Each stolen spell may only be cast once for each time it is stolen, and not repeatedly, even if it is a cantrip. Treat the spell as if it were cast by the original owner of the spell for the purpose of determining the casting time, caster level, save DC, and so forth. A spellthief can cast this spell even if he doesn't have the minimum ability score normally required to cast a spell of that level. The spellthief must supply the same components (including verbal, somatic, material, XP, and any focus) required for the stolen spell, though armor and shields do not impose any arcane spell failure chance.
At any time, a spellthief can possess a maximum number of stolen spell levels equal to his spellthief class level (treat cantrips and any other 0-level spells as 1/2 level for this purpose). For instance, a 4th-level spellthief can have two stolen 2nd-level spells, or one 2nd level spell and two 1st level spells, or any other combination of 0 level, 1st level, and 2nd level spells totaling four levels. If he steals a spell that would cause him to exceed this limit, he must choose to lose stolen spells sufficient to reduce his total number of stolen spell levels to no more than his maximum. If a stolen spell is not used within 8 hours, it fades from the spellthiefs memory and is lost. A spellthief can't apply metamagic feats or other effects to the stolen spell unless the specific spell stolen was prepared with such an effect. (In which case it counts as a higher level spell, according to the appropriate level adjustment of the metamagic).
Steal Spell Effect (Su): Starting at 2nd level, as an Immediate Action when the spellthief successfully hits and damages a creature with his Backstab ability, he may also steal the effect of a single ongoing spell affecting the target creature. If the target is willing, a spellthief can steal the effect of a single spell effecting the target with a touch as a Standard Action.
Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spells currently effecting the target creature. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spell effects to steal. The maximum spell level of the stolen spell effect must be equal to or lower than the spellthief's class level divided by two, rounded up. (Just like spells stolen with the Steal Spell ability).
The target creature loses the remaining effect of the stolen spell effect, and the spellthief gains the effect of the stolen spell effect until the spell's remaining duration expires, up to a maximum of 1 hour. If the spell effect is harmful, then the spellthief is entitled to a Saving Throw if one would normally be allowed by the spell, as if it had originally targeted the spellthief. For example, if the spellthief uses Steal Spell Effect to remove Confusion spell effecting an ally, then the spellthief would be entitled to a Willpower Save to negate the effect on himself. A spellthief may not target himself with his own Steal Spell Effect ability in an attempt to resist the spell a second time.
This ability only transfers any ongoing remaining effect of a spell, it does not heal previous damage or undo past effects of the spell. This ability cannot be used on spells with an Instantaneous duration. A spellthief can steal the effect of a spell only if the spell could be cast on him by the original caster. For example, a spellthief couldn't gain the effect of an Animal Growth spell unless the spellthief is of the animal type, or the effect of a Shield spell since that spell's range is personal. If a spellthief tries to steal the effect of a spell not allowed to him, the target still loses the spell effect (essentially dispelling it), but the spellthief gains nothing.
Spellgrace (Ex): Starting at 2nd level, a spellthief adds 1 point of their Intelligence bonus (if any) per spellthief class level to their Armor Class, CMD, and any Saving Throw against spells, spell-like abilities, and magical traps.
Steal Charges: Starting at 3rd level, as an Immediate Action when the spellthief successfully hits and damages a creature with his Backstab ability, he may also steal a spell from a scroll or spell trigger magic item that the target is holding. If you are holding an appropriate magic item yourself, you may steal a spell from it as a Standard Action.
Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spells that the creature can cast using the items that they are holding. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spells to steal. The targeted magic item loses whatever number of uses or charges would normally be required to cast the spell. The spellthief gains the spell as if they had successfully used their Steal Spell ability.
You may only use this ability on a magic item with a limited, non-renewable, number of uses or charges (such as most scrolls, wands, and staffs). You cannot use this ability on magic items with renewable uses (X times per week/day/hour/etc) or unlimited uses (at-will). Spells stolen using this ability also have all of the same uses and restrictions of the Steal Spells ability. You cannot use this ability to steal a spell of a spell level that you cannot normally use Steal Spells on, it counts toward your maximum number of stolen spells, stolen spells fade within 8 hours, etc.
In addition, you may also power a spell-trigger item with any currently stolen spell of equal or higher spell level, using the stolen spell in place of any magic items charges required to activate the item's spell. For example, if you have a stolen Fireball spell (regardless of whether it was stolen from a spellcaster or a magic item), then you may expend it to power a wand or stave for any one 3rd level or lower spell without using up a charge to trigger that spell. This ability allows you to bypass the normal magic item activation rules (having the appropriate spell on your spell list or making a Use Magic Device check), but only for the purpose of stealing spells or powering magic items with stolen spells.
Mystic Senses (Sp): At 4th, 7th, 10th, 13th, 16th, levels, the spellthief gains one of the spell-like abilities from the list below. Some abilities have prerequisites, which are noted in their description:
Acute Senses (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/ultimateMagic/spells/acuteSenses.html#_acute-senses)
Detect Thoughts (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/detectThoughts.html#_detect-thoughts)
See Invisibility (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/seeInvisibility.html#_see-invisibility)
Locate Object (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/locateObject.html#_locate-object)
Locate Creature (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/locateCreature.html#_locate-creature): Minimum 7th level.
Arcane Sight (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/arcaneSight.html#_arcane-sight): Minimum 7th level.
Greater Darkvision (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/ultimateMagic/spells/darkvision.html#_darkvision,-greater): Minimum 7th level.
Telepathic Bond (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/telepathicBond.html#_telepathic-bond): Minimum 10th level, must have Detect Thoughts.
True Seeing (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/trueSeeing.html#_true-seeing): Minimum 10th level, must have See Invisibility.
Analyze Dweomer (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/analyzeDweomer.html#_analyze-dweomer): Minimum 13th level.
Greater Arcane Sight (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/arcaneSight.html#_arcane-sight-greater): Minimum 13th level, must have Arcane Sight.
Each Mystic Sense gained is treated as a separate spell-like ability. (In case the spell-thief wishes to take a Feat which effects it, or in case another spellthief ever attempts to steal it). Each mystic sense may be used twice per day, and the spellthief gains one additional use of each spell-like ability every three levels thereafter. (Two at 4th level, three at 7th, four at 10th, five at 13th, and six at 16th ). For the purpose of these abilities, his a caster level equal to his spellthief class level, using his Intelligence to determine any saving throw required (if any).
Steal Ability (Su): At 5th, 8th, 11th, 14th, and 17th levels, the spellthief gains one new type of ability that they can steal from creatures (or magic items that the creature is using), chosen from the list below. When the spellthief successfully hits and damages a creature with his Backstab ability, as an Immediate Action he may activate one of the Steal Ability options that he has chosen. If the target is willing, a spellthief can use Steal Ability on them with a touch as a Standard Action.
Steal Damage Reduction: All forms of damage reduction that the target possesses are reduced by the spellthief's class level for one hour. The spellthief gains damage reduction of the same types and amounts that he has stolen, up to a maximum value of the target's original damage reduction, for up to 1 hour.
Steal Energy Resistance: All forms of energy resistance that the target possesses are reduced by 10 + the spellthief's class level for one hour. If the creature has any energy immunities, then they now take the first 10 + spellthief class level points of damage from that energy type, and only have immunity to damage of that energy type beyond that number. In either case, the spellthief gains energy resistances of the same types and amount that he has stolen, up to a maximum value of the target's original energy resistances, for up to one hour.
Steal Summons: If the target hit and damaged by the Backstab exists on this plane as a result of magic (such as Summon Monster, Summon Nature's ally, Animate Undead, Animate Objects, a Summoner's Eidolon, a Paladin's Special Mount, or any similar magical ability, spell, spell-like ability, or supernatural ability) and is currently being controlled by another creature, then that control is lost for up to 5 minutes. The spellthief gains control of the target for 5 minutes as if he were the original summoner/caster. The spellthief may also choose to dismiss the target creature if it would normally be possible for the original summoner/caster to do so.
Steal Healing: Any form of healing or temporary hit points that the target receives for the next 5 minutes is instead applied to the spellthief. This includes fast healing, regeneration, healing from spells or other similar effects, healing from magic weapons, etc.
Steal Spell-Like Ability: Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spell-like abilities that the target creature has, and how many uses (if any) each has remaining. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spell-like abilities to steal. The spellthief may not steal a spell-like ability with a caster level higher then his spellthief class level. The target loses the selected spell-like ability for 5 minutes, and the spellthief gains the ability for 5 minutes. If the spell-like ability has a limited number of uses, then the spellthief likewise limited by whatever amount is remaining, and consumed uses do not return to the original creature. If the spell-like ability duplicates a spell with that has an expensive material component (over 1 gp or any amount of xp), then the spellthief must provide such components in order to use the spell-like ability.
Steal Supernatural Ability: Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all supernatural abilities that the target creature has. The spellthief may then choose any one of these supernatural abilities to steal. The spellthief may not steal a supernatural ability from a creature with hit dice greater then his spellthief class level. The target loses this supernatural ability for 5 minutes, and the spellthief gains the ability for 5 minutes. If the supernatural ability duplicates a spell with that has an expensive material component (over 1 gp or any amount of xp), then the spellthief must provide such components in order to use the supernatural ability.
Steal Spell Resistance (Su): The target's spell resistance is reduced by 5 for one hour. The spellthief gains spell resistance equal to 5 + their spellthief class level, up to a maximum value of the target's original spell resistance, for one hour.
Each Steal Ability gained is treated as a separate supernatural ability. (In case the spell-thief wishes to take a Feat which effects it, or in case another spellthief ever attempts to steal it). If any stolen ability comes from any temporary effect (such as a spell or a magic item with a limited duration), then the spellthief automatically loses it when the remaining duration expires, regardless of how long he could have stolen it for (the durations listed above). For example, if the spellthief uses Steal Energy Resistance on a target with Fire Resistance 10 for 3 rounds remaining from a spell, then it expires after 3 rounds, and not 1 hour. If the spellthief uses the same Steal Ability multiple times, only the most recent use of it applies. The previous stolen ability is lost and returns to the original creature that possessed it. Thus, the spellthief may only possess one of each stolen ability at any given time (one stolen Damage Rection, one stolen Energy Resistance, one stolen spell-like ability, etc) and multiple uses of the same Steal Ability never stack. If the spellthief steals an ability of the same exact type that they already possess from any other source, only the highest ability applies. (For example, if he Steals Fire Resistance 10 and already has Fire Resistance 5 from a magic item, only the Fire Resistance 10 applies. If he Steals Fire Resistance 10 and already has Cold Resistance 5 from a magic item, both continue to apply).
Creatures that are repeatedly effected by any Steal Ability from the same spellthief build up an immunity to it. After the first successful use (which has no Save), every additional use of any Steal Ability against an unwilling target entitles the creature to a Willpower Save in order to negate it, with a Save DC equal to 10 + 1/2 the spellthief's class level + his Intelligence bonus minus the total number of times the spellthief has attempted to use any Steal Ability on that creature.
Absorb Spell (Su): Starting at 6th level, whenever the spellthief makes a successful saving throw against a spell or spell-like ability that normally possesses a partial effect even with a successful save (such as “reflex half” or “fortitude partial”), he ignores the effect completely with a successful saving throw. This defense works against all spells and spell-like abilities, regardless of their spell level or caster level.
In addition, as a Free Action whenever the spellthief makes a successful saving throw against a spell or successfully negates a spell with spell resistance, he may absorb that spell as if he had successfully used the Steal Spell Ability on the creature casting it. Spells stolen in this manner otherwise have all of the same uses and restrictions of the Steal Spell ability. You cannot Absorb a spell if it is of a spell level you normally Steal, it counts toward your maximum number of stolen spells, etc. If spell you Absorb in this manner has an area of effect, the entire spell is absorbed, negating any possible effects on other creatures as well.
Nondetection (Su): Starting at 9th level, the spellthief has learned to hide themselves from divination spells, as if under the effect of a continuous Nondetection spell. He is also always aware of any attempt to magically observe him, as if under a continuous Detect Scrying spell. For the purpose of determine these effects, the caster level is equal to the spellthief's class level. The spellthief may only use this ability on themselves (which also effects gear that stays in their possession), and not on any other creature or object.
In addition, all spell cast by the spellthief no longer require verbal components, as if using the Silent Spell feat. Spells cast using this ability do not increase in spell level or casting time.
Bypass Wards (Su): Starting at 12th level, as a Standard Action the spellthief may use his Steal Spell ability on any active spell that was cast on an object or has an area of effect that is adjacent to the spellthief. This allows him to steal ongoing spells such as Alarm, Explosive Runes, Solid Fog, Web, Wall of Fire, etc., negating the spell and storing it for future use. Spells stolen in this manner otherwise have all of the same uses and restrictions of the Steal Spell ability. You cannot Bypass a spell if it is of a spell level you cannot normally Steal, it counts toward your maximum number of stolen spells, etc.
Dimensional Anchor (Su): Starting at 15th level, enemies within 60 feet of the spellthief cannot use any magical means of movement, travel, or teleportation. This includes magical flight, extradimensional travel, astral projection, blink, dimension door, ethereal jaunt, etherealness, gate, maze, plane shift, shadow walk, teleport, and any similar spells, spell-like abilities, or supernatural abilities within DM approval. If an enemy is using any such ability when they come with 60 feet of the spellthief, they are suppressed as if they had entered an Antimagic Field, with a caster level equal to the spellthief's class level. (Although all other magical effects continue normally).
This ability does not interfere with creatures who are inherently astral, ethereal, or incorporeal (such as a ghost), nor does it block extradimensional perception or attack forms. It also does not prevent summoned creatures from disappearing at the end of a summoning spell. The spellthief may suppress or reinitiate this ability as an Immediate Action.
Reflect Spell (Su): Starting at 18th level, if the spellthief successfully absorbs a spell with his Absorb Spell ability, then he may cast that spell as an Immediate Action. He must do so immediately after absorbing the spell, otherwise it is stored and can only be cast using it's normal casting time.
X-Ray Vision (Su): Starting at 19th level, the spellthief gains the ability to see into and through non-living solid matter. The range of this X-Ray Vision is 30 feet, seeing as if he were looking at something in normal light even if there is no illumination. His ability to Sense Magic (and thus Detect Magic, know which enemies he can Steal from, and detect magical traps) and any relevant active Mystic Senses (such as See Invisibility, True Seeing, etc) also function through up to 30 feet of solid matter. He may also look through layers of solid matter with a high level of discernment. For example he could see the treasure inside of a chest or items inside of a backpack. The spellthief may use or suppress this ability at will as a free action.
Steal Essence (Su): Starting at 20th level, if the spellthief kills a creature with a Backstab and successfully uses any Steal Ability on that creature, he may choose to steal the ability for up to 24 hours. If the stolen ability comes from a temporary effect (such as a spell or a magic item with a limited duration), then the spellthief still automatically loses it when the remaining duration expires. The spellthief may only have one stolen essence at any given time. He cannot use this ability again until the duration of the previous stolen ability has expired (24 hours, or less if it was a temporary effect).
Prestige Classes: A spellthief may use Backstab to qualify for any prestige class which requires Sneak Attack, and may use their Steal Spells ability to qualify for any prestige class that requires the ability to cast spells. For example, a 4th level Spellthief could qualify for the Arcane Trickster prestige class, because he has 2d6 Backstab, and is capable of casting Mage Hand and other spells of 2nd level or higher. If the prestige class progresses spellcasting ("+1 level of existing class" or " +1 level of existing arcane spellcasting class" or "+1 level of existing divine spellcasting class"), then it can progress the spellthief's Steal Spell Ability (maximum spell level stolen and maximum number of spells stored), which also indirectly improves other class abilities they may possess (such as Steal Spell Effect, Steal Charges, and Absorb spell). It does not progress or provide any other spellthief class ability. If a character had more than one spellcasting class before entering a prestige class, he must decide to which class he adds the new level for purposes of determining this progression. (For example, for a Spellthief/Wizard/Arcane Trickster, Arcane Trickster would progress Steal Spell or Wizard Spells, but not both).
Pathfinder Spellthief
http://i.annihil.us/u/prod/marvel//universe3zx/images/f/f6/Rogue.jpg
{table=head]Level | BAB | Fort | Ref | Will | Special | Max spell lvl stolen
1st | + 0 | + 0 | + 2 | + 2 | Backstab +1d6, Sense Magic, Steal Spell | 1st
2nd | + 1 | + 0 | + 3 | + 3 | Steal Spell Effect, Spellgrace |
3rd | + 2 | + 1 | + 3 | + 3 | Steal Charges | 2nd
4th | + 3 | + 1 | + 4 | + 4 | Backstab +2d6, Mystic Senses |
5th | + 3 | + 1 | + 4 | + 4 | Steal Ability | 3rd
6th | + 4 | + 2 | + 5 | + 5 | Absorb Spell |
7th | + 5 | + 2 | + 5 | + 5 | Backstab +3d6, Mystic Senses | 4th
8th | + 6 | + 2 | + 6 | + 6 | Steal Ability |
9th | + 6 | + 3 | + 6 | + 6 | Nondetection | 5th
10th | + 7 | + 3 | + 7 | + 7 | Backstab +4d6, Mystic Senses |
11th | + 8 | + 3 | + 7 | + 7 | Steal Ability | 6th
12th | + 9 | + 4 | + 8 | + 8 | Bypass Wards |
13th | + 9 | + 4 | + 8 | + 8 | Backstab +5d6, Mystic Senses | 7th
14th | + 10 | + 4 | + 9 | + 9 | Steal Ability |
15th | + 11 | + 5 | + 9 | + 9 | Dimensional Anchor | 8th
16th | + 12 | + 5 | + 10 | + 10 | Backstab +6d6, Mystic Senses |
17th | + 12 | + 5 | + 10 | + 10 | Steal Ability | 9th
18th | + 13 | + 6 | + 11 | + 11 | Reflect Spell |
19th | + 14 | + 6 | + 11 | + 11 | Backstab +7d6, X-Ray Vision |
20th | + 15 | + 6 | + 12 | + 12 | Steal Essance |
[/table]
Hit Die: d8.
Starting Gold: 4d4 x 10 gp.
Class Skills: A spellthief's class skills (and the key ability for each skill) are Acrobatics (Dex), Appraise (Int), Bluff (Cha), Climb (Str), Craft (Int), Diplomacy (Cha), Disable Device (Dex), Disguise (Cha), Escape Artist (Dex), Intimidate (Cha), Knowledge (all), Linguistics (Int), Perception (Wis), Profession (Wis), Sense Motive (Wis), Sleight of Hand (Dex), Spellcraft (Int), Stealth (Dex), Swim (Str), and Use Magic Device (Cha).
Skill Ranks per Level: 6 + Int modifier.
Class Features:
Weapon and Armor Proficiency: The Spellthief is proficient with all simple and martial weapons and with light armor but not with shields.
Backstab (Ex): The spellthief deals extra damage on any melee attack he makes against any creature which is flanked or denied their Dexterity bonus. This extra damage is 1d6 at 1st level, and increases by 1d6 every three levels thereafter. This bonus damage is never multiplied, and only occurs with melee attacks that deal lethal damage.
Sense Magic (Su): The spellthief can sense any magical objects or auras, as if using the Detect Magic spell, but with a continuous duration. In addition, the spellthief can innately sense whether or not his Steal abilities (see below) would be useful against any creature within range of his ability to Detect Magic (60 feet, unless something blocks or negates the Detect Magic effect). He does not know what he can steal until he activates the respective ability, he only knows which abilities (if any) would be useful to attempt, so that no Steal attempt would ever be wasted. Finally, a spellthief can also use Disable Device to disarm magical traps.
Steal Spell (Su): As an Immediate Action when the spellthief successfully hits and damages an opponent with his Backstab ability, he may also siphon off some of the magical energy away from his target and use it himself. If the target is willing, a spellthief can instead use the Steal Magic ability without dealing any damage with a touch as a Standard Action.
Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spells prepared or known by the target, if any. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spells to steal, but the maximum spell level of the stolen spell must be equal to or lower then the spellthief's class level divided by two, rounded up. (As noted on The Spellthief Table). The target loses that spell from their memory if she prepares spells ahead of time, or one use of the appropriate spell slot if she is a spontaneous caster. If the stolen spell is cast spontaneously (such as spells cast by a sorcerer, or a cantrip cast by any class), the caster also loses the ability to cast the stolen spell for 8 hours.
After stealing a spell, a spellthief can cast the spell himself. Each stolen spell may only be cast once for each time it is stolen, and not repeatedly, even if it is a cantrip. Treat the spell as if it were cast by the original owner of the spell for the purpose of determining the casting time, caster level, save DC, and so forth. A spellthief can cast this spell even if he doesn't have the minimum ability score normally required to cast a spell of that level. The spellthief must supply the same components (including verbal, somatic, material, XP, and any focus) required for the stolen spell, though armor and shields do not impose any arcane spell failure chance.
At any time, a spellthief can possess a maximum number of stolen spell levels equal to his spellthief class level (treat cantrips and any other 0-level spells as 1/2 level for this purpose). For instance, a 4th-level spellthief can have two stolen 2nd-level spells, or one 2nd level spell and two 1st level spells, or any other combination of 0 level, 1st level, and 2nd level spells totaling four levels. If he steals a spell that would cause him to exceed this limit, he must choose to lose stolen spells sufficient to reduce his total number of stolen spell levels to no more than his maximum. If a stolen spell is not used within 8 hours, it fades from the spellthiefs memory and is lost. A spellthief can't apply metamagic feats or other effects to the stolen spell unless the specific spell stolen was prepared with such an effect. (In which case it counts as a higher level spell, according to the appropriate level adjustment of the metamagic).
Steal Spell Effect (Su): Starting at 2nd level, as an Immediate Action when the spellthief successfully hits and damages a creature with his Backstab ability, he may also steal the effect of a single ongoing spell affecting the target creature. If the target is willing, a spellthief can steal the effect of a single spell effecting the target with a touch as a Standard Action.
Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spells currently effecting the target creature. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spell effects to steal. The maximum spell level of the stolen spell effect must be equal to or lower than the spellthief's class level divided by two, rounded up. (Just like spells stolen with the Steal Spell ability).
The target creature loses the remaining effect of the stolen spell effect, and the spellthief gains the effect of the stolen spell effect until the spell's remaining duration expires, up to a maximum of 1 hour. If the spell effect is harmful, then the spellthief is entitled to a Saving Throw if one would normally be allowed by the spell, as if it had originally targeted the spellthief. For example, if the spellthief uses Steal Spell Effect to remove Confusion spell effecting an ally, then the spellthief would be entitled to a Willpower Save to negate the effect on himself. A spellthief may not target himself with his own Steal Spell Effect ability in an attempt to resist the spell a second time.
This ability only transfers any ongoing remaining effect of a spell, it does not heal previous damage or undo past effects of the spell. This ability cannot be used on spells with an Instantaneous duration. A spellthief can steal the effect of a spell only if the spell could be cast on him by the original caster. For example, a spellthief couldn't gain the effect of an Animal Growth spell unless the spellthief is of the animal type, or the effect of a Shield spell since that spell's range is personal. If a spellthief tries to steal the effect of a spell not allowed to him, the target still loses the spell effect (essentially dispelling it), but the spellthief gains nothing.
Spellgrace (Ex): Starting at 2nd level, a spellthief adds 1 point of their Intelligence bonus (if any) per spellthief class level to their Armor Class, CMD, and any Saving Throw against spells, spell-like abilities, and magical traps.
Steal Charges: Starting at 3rd level, as an Immediate Action when the spellthief successfully hits and damages a creature with his Backstab ability, he may also steal a spell from a scroll or spell trigger magic item that the target is holding. If you are holding an appropriate magic item yourself, you may steal a spell from it as a Standard Action.
Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spells that the creature can cast using the items that they are holding. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spells to steal. The targeted magic item loses whatever number of uses or charges would normally be required to cast the spell. The spellthief gains the spell as if they had successfully used their Steal Spell ability.
You may only use this ability on a magic item with a limited, non-renewable, number of uses or charges (such as most scrolls, wands, and staffs). You cannot use this ability on magic items with renewable uses (X times per week/day/hour/etc) or unlimited uses (at-will). Spells stolen using this ability also have all of the same uses and restrictions of the Steal Spells ability. You cannot use this ability to steal a spell of a spell level that you cannot normally use Steal Spells on, it counts toward your maximum number of stolen spells, stolen spells fade within 8 hours, etc.
In addition, you may also power a spell-trigger item with any currently stolen spell of equal or higher spell level, using the stolen spell in place of any magic items charges required to activate the item's spell. For example, if you have a stolen Fireball spell (regardless of whether it was stolen from a spellcaster or a magic item), then you may expend it to power a wand or stave for any one 3rd level or lower spell without using up a charge to trigger that spell. This ability allows you to bypass the normal magic item activation rules (having the appropriate spell on your spell list or making a Use Magic Device check), but only for the purpose of stealing spells or powering magic items with stolen spells.
Mystic Senses (Sp): At 4th, 7th, 10th, 13th, 16th, levels, the spellthief gains one of the spell-like abilities from the list below. Some abilities have prerequisites, which are noted in their description:
Acute Senses (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/ultimateMagic/spells/acuteSenses.html#_acute-senses)
Detect Thoughts (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/detectThoughts.html#_detect-thoughts)
See Invisibility (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/seeInvisibility.html#_see-invisibility)
Locate Object (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/locateObject.html#_locate-object)
Locate Creature (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/locateCreature.html#_locate-creature): Minimum 7th level.
Arcane Sight (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/arcaneSight.html#_arcane-sight): Minimum 7th level.
Greater Darkvision (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/ultimateMagic/spells/darkvision.html#_darkvision,-greater): Minimum 7th level.
Telepathic Bond (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/telepathicBond.html#_telepathic-bond): Minimum 10th level, must have Detect Thoughts.
True Seeing (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/trueSeeing.html#_true-seeing): Minimum 10th level, must have See Invisibility.
Analyze Dweomer (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/analyzeDweomer.html#_analyze-dweomer): Minimum 13th level.
Greater Arcane Sight (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/arcaneSight.html#_arcane-sight-greater): Minimum 13th level, must have Arcane Sight.
Each Mystic Sense gained is treated as a separate spell-like ability. (In case the spell-thief wishes to take a Feat which effects it, or in case another spellthief ever attempts to steal it). Each mystic sense may be used twice per day, and the spellthief gains one additional use of each spell-like ability every three levels thereafter. (Two at 4th level, three at 7th, four at 10th, five at 13th, and six at 16th ). For the purpose of these abilities, his a caster level equal to his spellthief class level, using his Intelligence to determine any saving throw required (if any).
Steal Ability (Su): At 5th, 8th, 11th, 14th, and 17th levels, the spellthief gains one new type of ability that they can steal from creatures (or magic items that the creature is using), chosen from the list below. When the spellthief successfully hits and damages a creature with his Backstab ability, as an Immediate Action he may activate one of the Steal Ability options that he has chosen. If the target is willing, a spellthief can use Steal Ability on them with a touch as a Standard Action.
Steal Damage Reduction: All forms of damage reduction that the target possesses are reduced by the spellthief's class level for one hour. The spellthief gains damage reduction of the same types and amounts that he has stolen, up to a maximum value of the target's original damage reduction, for up to 1 hour.
Steal Energy Resistance: All forms of energy resistance that the target possesses are reduced by 10 + the spellthief's class level for one hour. If the creature has any energy immunities, then they now take the first 10 + spellthief class level points of damage from that energy type, and only have immunity to damage of that energy type beyond that number. In either case, the spellthief gains energy resistances of the same types and amount that he has stolen, up to a maximum value of the target's original energy resistances, for up to one hour.
Steal Summons: If the target hit and damaged by the Backstab exists on this plane as a result of magic (such as Summon Monster, Summon Nature's ally, Animate Undead, Animate Objects, a Summoner's Eidolon, a Paladin's Special Mount, or any similar magical ability, spell, spell-like ability, or supernatural ability) and is currently being controlled by another creature, then that control is lost for up to 5 minutes. The spellthief gains control of the target for 5 minutes as if he were the original summoner/caster. The spellthief may also choose to dismiss the target creature if it would normally be possible for the original summoner/caster to do so.
Steal Healing: Any form of healing or temporary hit points that the target receives for the next 5 minutes is instead applied to the spellthief. This includes fast healing, regeneration, healing from spells or other similar effects, healing from magic weapons, etc.
Steal Spell-Like Ability: Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all spell-like abilities that the target creature has, and how many uses (if any) each has remaining. The spellthief may then choose any one of these spell-like abilities to steal. The spellthief may not steal a spell-like ability with a caster level higher then his spellthief class level. The target loses the selected spell-like ability for 5 minutes, and the spellthief gains the ability for 5 minutes. If the spell-like ability has a limited number of uses, then the spellthief likewise limited by whatever amount is remaining, and consumed uses do not return to the original creature. If the spell-like ability duplicates a spell with that has an expensive material component (over 1 gp or any amount of xp), then the spellthief must provide such components in order to use the spell-like ability.
Steal Supernatural Ability: Upon activating this ability, the spellthief automatically learns the names of all supernatural abilities that the target creature has. The spellthief may then choose any one of these supernatural abilities to steal. The spellthief may not steal a supernatural ability from a creature with hit dice greater then his spellthief class level. The target loses this supernatural ability for 5 minutes, and the spellthief gains the ability for 5 minutes. If the supernatural ability duplicates a spell with that has an expensive material component (over 1 gp or any amount of xp), then the spellthief must provide such components in order to use the supernatural ability.
Steal Spell Resistance (Su): The target's spell resistance is reduced by 5 for one hour. The spellthief gains spell resistance equal to 5 + their spellthief class level, up to a maximum value of the target's original spell resistance, for one hour.
Each Steal Ability gained is treated as a separate supernatural ability. (In case the spell-thief wishes to take a Feat which effects it, or in case another spellthief ever attempts to steal it). If any stolen ability comes from any temporary effect (such as a spell or a magic item with a limited duration), then the spellthief automatically loses it when the remaining duration expires, regardless of how long he could have stolen it for (the durations listed above). For example, if the spellthief uses Steal Energy Resistance on a target with Fire Resistance 10 for 3 rounds remaining from a spell, then it expires after 3 rounds, and not 1 hour. If the spellthief uses the same Steal Ability multiple times, only the most recent use of it applies. The previous stolen ability is lost and returns to the original creature that possessed it. Thus, the spellthief may only possess one of each stolen ability at any given time (one stolen Damage Rection, one stolen Energy Resistance, one stolen spell-like ability, etc) and multiple uses of the same Steal Ability never stack. If the spellthief steals an ability of the same exact type that they already possess from any other source, only the highest ability applies. (For example, if he Steals Fire Resistance 10 and already has Fire Resistance 5 from a magic item, only the Fire Resistance 10 applies. If he Steals Fire Resistance 10 and already has Cold Resistance 5 from a magic item, both continue to apply).
Creatures that are repeatedly effected by any Steal Ability from the same spellthief build up an immunity to it. After the first successful use (which has no Save), every additional use of any Steal Ability against an unwilling target entitles the creature to a Willpower Save in order to negate it, with a Save DC equal to 10 + 1/2 the spellthief's class level + his Intelligence bonus minus the total number of times the spellthief has attempted to use any Steal Ability on that creature.
Absorb Spell (Su): Starting at 6th level, whenever the spellthief makes a successful saving throw against a spell or spell-like ability that normally possesses a partial effect even with a successful save (such as “reflex half” or “fortitude partial”), he ignores the effect completely with a successful saving throw. This defense works against all spells and spell-like abilities, regardless of their spell level or caster level.
In addition, as a Free Action whenever the spellthief makes a successful saving throw against a spell or successfully negates a spell with spell resistance, he may absorb that spell as if he had successfully used the Steal Spell Ability on the creature casting it. Spells stolen in this manner otherwise have all of the same uses and restrictions of the Steal Spell ability. You cannot Absorb a spell if it is of a spell level you normally Steal, it counts toward your maximum number of stolen spells, etc. If spell you Absorb in this manner has an area of effect, the entire spell is absorbed, negating any possible effects on other creatures as well.
Nondetection (Su): Starting at 9th level, the spellthief has learned to hide themselves from divination spells, as if under the effect of a continuous Nondetection spell. He is also always aware of any attempt to magically observe him, as if under a continuous Detect Scrying spell. For the purpose of determine these effects, the caster level is equal to the spellthief's class level. The spellthief may only use this ability on themselves (which also effects gear that stays in their possession), and not on any other creature or object.
In addition, all spell cast by the spellthief no longer require verbal components, as if using the Silent Spell feat. Spells cast using this ability do not increase in spell level or casting time.
Bypass Wards (Su): Starting at 12th level, as a Standard Action the spellthief may use his Steal Spell ability on any active spell that was cast on an object or has an area of effect that is adjacent to the spellthief. This allows him to steal ongoing spells such as Alarm, Explosive Runes, Solid Fog, Web, Wall of Fire, etc., negating the spell and storing it for future use. Spells stolen in this manner otherwise have all of the same uses and restrictions of the Steal Spell ability. You cannot Bypass a spell if it is of a spell level you cannot normally Steal, it counts toward your maximum number of stolen spells, etc.
Dimensional Anchor (Su): Starting at 15th level, enemies within 60 feet of the spellthief cannot use any magical means of movement, travel, or teleportation. This includes magical flight, extradimensional travel, astral projection, blink, dimension door, ethereal jaunt, etherealness, gate, maze, plane shift, shadow walk, teleport, and any similar spells, spell-like abilities, or supernatural abilities within DM approval. If an enemy is using any such ability when they come with 60 feet of the spellthief, they are suppressed as if they had entered an Antimagic Field, with a caster level equal to the spellthief's class level. (Although all other magical effects continue normally).
This ability does not interfere with creatures who are inherently astral, ethereal, or incorporeal (such as a ghost), nor does it block extradimensional perception or attack forms. It also does not prevent summoned creatures from disappearing at the end of a summoning spell. The spellthief may suppress or reinitiate this ability as an Immediate Action.
Reflect Spell (Su): Starting at 18th level, if the spellthief successfully absorbs a spell with his Absorb Spell ability, then he may cast that spell as an Immediate Action. He must do so immediately after absorbing the spell, otherwise it is stored and can only be cast using it's normal casting time.
X-Ray Vision (Su): Starting at 19th level, the spellthief gains the ability to see into and through non-living solid matter. The range of this X-Ray Vision is 30 feet, seeing as if he were looking at something in normal light even if there is no illumination. His ability to Sense Magic (and thus Detect Magic, know which enemies he can Steal from, and detect magical traps) and any relevant active Mystic Senses (such as See Invisibility, True Seeing, etc) also function through up to 30 feet of solid matter. He may also look through layers of solid matter with a high level of discernment. For example he could see the treasure inside of a chest or items inside of a backpack. The spellthief may use or suppress this ability at will as a free action.
Steal Essence (Su): Starting at 20th level, if the spellthief kills a creature with a Backstab and successfully uses any Steal Ability on that creature, he may choose to steal the ability for up to 24 hours. If the stolen ability comes from a temporary effect (such as a spell or a magic item with a limited duration), then the spellthief still automatically loses it when the remaining duration expires. The spellthief may only have one stolen essence at any given time. He cannot use this ability again until the duration of the previous stolen ability has expired (24 hours, or less if it was a temporary effect).
Prestige Classes: A spellthief may use Backstab to qualify for any prestige class which requires Sneak Attack, and may use their Steal Spells ability to qualify for any prestige class that requires the ability to cast spells. For example, a 4th level Spellthief could qualify for the Arcane Trickster prestige class, because he has 2d6 Backstab, and is capable of casting Mage Hand and other spells of 2nd level or higher. If the prestige class progresses spellcasting ("+1 level of existing class" or " +1 level of existing arcane spellcasting class" or "+1 level of existing divine spellcasting class"), then it can progress the spellthief's Steal Spell Ability (maximum spell level stolen and maximum number of spells stored), which also indirectly improves other class abilities they may possess (such as Steal Spell Effect, Steal Charges, and Absorb spell). It does not progress or provide any other spellthief class ability. If a character had more than one spellcasting class before entering a prestige class, he must decide to which class he adds the new level for purposes of determining this progression. (For example, for a Spellthief/Wizard/Arcane Trickster, Arcane Trickster would progress Steal Spell or Wizard Spells, but not both).