I was inspired to write this class concept after reading about the "Fighting Friar" at Old Guard Gaming Accoutrements (a blog with an even longer title than my own). Mr. Palmer tackles the ill-fitting Monk class, clearing away the Oriental wushu and mystical powers to set a "Medieval Europe" tone for the class. In my version, the fisticuffs are almost forgotten, replaced by abilities I think a fantasy-world hermit could possess. To start, I'll note the big difference between the Cleric and the Monk/Ascetic. The Cleric is part of a coenobitic institution, a communal brotherhood typically recognized by the ruling government. Conversely, the Ascetic lives like a hermit or anchorite, socializing only when seeking wisdom from an elder, or when common folk seek his aid. Any "adventure" the Ascetic finds himself on is often due to the fact that Evil beings want him removed from their territory. Purposefully, the Ascetic resides in wilderness areas, dangerous caves, and haunted cemeteries to "challenge" his devotion and willpower. His hermitage, or skete, is usually little more than a single room or alcove, with his scholarly possessions and a prayer mat. As a rule, everything the Ascetic has must be a gift of charity or foraged/grown in Nature. To encourage donation, the Ascetic can barter his excellent calligraphy, which is widely known as a beneficial charm (see Holy Script in spell list). Since the Ascetic must complete exercises to stay healthy, he doesn't wear heavier armor than Studded Leather (and only if that was a charitable gift from an armorer). The weapon of choice for the class is a crosier, or pastoral crook, usually fashioned from a rare wood and passed down from a deceased elder. Like a cleric, the Ascetic can use any blunt weapon.