[RPG] Getting Early Access to Level 8 and 9 Spells as an Arcane Trickster

Yes, but only 1st-level spells

PurpleVermont has already argued why such a multiclass could only write down spells of a level they could cast as a Wizard (so actually up to 2nd level, if they take Wizard 3). I disagree with Vermont's argument that stolen spells could not be transcribed at all, however.

The rules don't clearly state that you have to have seen a spell written down to be able to transcribe it, that's a matter of interpretation--and I disagree with the interpretation:

Copying a spell into your spellbook involves reproducing the basic form of the spell, then deciphering the unique system of notation used by the wizard who wrote it. You must practice the spell until you understand the sounds or gestures required, then transcribe it into your spellbook using your own notation.

The fact that different wizards use different notation implies that the written form of the spell is not an inherent part of the magic, merely an aide-memoire. And the requirement to practice the spell until you understand its V/S requirements -- precisely the thing which the Arcane Trickster can instantly intuit -- strongly suggests that this is the most important part of "learning" a spell, and the rest is merely paperwork that your first-level Wizard training would absolutely prepare you for.

If you can meet the prerequisites of prestige classes by your previous gestalts, than it is reasonable to take Beastmaster as soon as possible. I assume you are going to finish your Convoker advancement, so the character would look like that:

Commoner 6 // Convoker 6 // Beastmaster 1

At the first level Beastmaster provides boost to your effective Druid level, so it will be a companion of 4 level Druid from the spot. I dont realy think you'll very much need any more levels in Beastmaster as it stacks with any companion advancing classes, and they have better class features.

From now on I see two options:

1. Take Druid for spellcastng, if you have room for it in your actions. Five levels will give you access to highest level spells even without that level lost due to Beastmaster. You also will have room for adding more prestige classes at those five levels later, as Druid is a regular class. Finaly, as a regular class, it has no prerequisites. It results in:

   Commoner 6 // Convoker 6 // Beastmaster 1/Druid 5

2. Stack some other prestige and maybe regular classes with nice class features wich progresses your animal companion. I'd consider Wild Plains Outrider, good class with quick advancement and ability to make a full attack after mount's single move. Two remaining levels may be of practically any class wich progresses your animal companion, probably those of a Beastmaster or even some regular class whose class features you like. It results in:

   Commoner 6 // Convoker 6 // Beastmaster 1/Wild Plains Outrider 3/xxx 2

I can't realy wrap my mind around Animal Ally feat mentioned by Chemus. I feel like, depending on your DM's judment, it may be quite usefull, but when to take it is a question I can't answer. Beastmaster and Wild Plains Outrider are both from Complete Adventurer.