Overview
Bridgid Blackthorn, a Circle of the Moon druidess and former undertaker, embodies the harmonious convergence of the natural and mystical. With radiant blue eyes reflecting deep wisdom, sun-kissed blonde hair, and sun-touched skin adorned with nature's marks, she navigates life with heightened intuition and connection to the forest. Bridgid's childhood, guided by an elder seer and nurtured by companions like Thorne the wolf, shaped her into a guardian of nature and guide for the departed. Her journey unfolds as she strives to restore balance, wielding moonlit powers and thorny staff, a beacon of both life and death intertwined.
Early Life
Early life unfolded in the tranquil embrace of a small village nestled within the heart of an ancient forest. Born into a family of undertakers, the Blackthorns were known for their sacred duty of tending to the deceased and maintaining the sanctity of the local cemetery. Bridgid's childhood was a tapestry woven with threads of solemn rituals, the echoes of mourning, and the quiet whispers of the wind rustling through the trees.
Influencers:
Elder Willowheart, The Village Seer - was the wise and revered seer in the village. Recognising Bridgid's unique connection to the natural world and the spirits, Elder Willowheart became her mentor. Under the elder's guidance, Bridgid honed her druidic abilities and learned to interpret the mystical visions that visited her in dreams. She instilled in Bridgid a deep sense of responsibility for maintaining the balance between the living and the dead. The seer's teachings influenced Bridgid's understanding of her purpose and set her on the path of the Circle of the Moon.
Thorne, the Loyal Companion - Thorne was a faithful companion, a wolf with fur as dark as the night and eyes that mirrored the wisdom of the moon. Thorne and Bridgid formed an unbreakable bond from the moment they first crossed paths. Thorne often accompanied her on her journeys through the forest, providing protection and companionship. His presence reinforced her affinity with animals and deepened her understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings. The wolf's loyalty and intuitive understanding of her emotions became a source of strength during challenging times.
Sister Eilin, the Village Hearler - Sister Eilin was the compassionate and skilled healer in the village. She recognised Bridgid's nurturing nature and taught her the art of herbalism and healing. Bridgid spent countless hours with Sister Eillin, learning to harness the natural remedies found in the forest to aid the villagers. Her teachings not only broadened Bridgid's knowledge of the healing arts but also fostered a sense of community service. Together, they tended to the sick and injured, strengthening Bridgid's commitment to both the living and the dead.
Maraud, the Mischievous Village Child - was initially skeptical of Bridgid's connection to nature. Over time, a unique friendship blossemed between them. Maraud's playful spirit brought moments of laughter and lightness to Bridgid's life. Maraud's inquisitiveness nature and open-mindedness challenged Bridgid to express herself beyond the solemn duties of an undertaker. Their friendship, though unconventional, provided Bridgid with a sense of acceptance and reminded her of the importance of joy in the midst of life's solemnities.
Attributes Early Shaping of Bridgid's Character and Values:
WIS 20 - heightened wisdom made her particularly perceptive and attuned to the natural world from a very young age. She could sense the emotions of those around her and had an innate understanding of the cycles of life and death. Her abilities to communicate with animals further deepened her connection to the forest, earning her the admiration of the villagers and the respect of the elders who recognized her as someone with a special connection of the mystical forces at play.
STR 10 - Average in physical strength, it was sufficient for the undertaker duties required in her family. Her strength, combined with her respect for the deceased, allowed her to fulfill her responsibilities in preparing bodies for their final rest. Her strength also proved handy in everyday tasks, from helping with manual labour in the village to navigating the dense woods that surrounded her home.
DEX 16 - Agility and dexterity were evident in her graceful movements. She was able to navigate the forest with ease, avoiding obstacles and moving silently through the underbrush. Her dexterity allowed her to perform delicate tasks with precision, such as arranging flowers for funeral rites or crafting intricate symbols for rituals.
INT 4 - Limited intellectual capabilities were noticeable from early on. She struggled with complex ideas and found it challenging to grasp abstract concepts. While she excelled in understanding the natural world intuitively, her intellectual shortcomings led to occasional misunderstandings or naivety in social situations.
CHA 6 - Not lacking in beauty and poise, she is somewhat reserved and introverted. Her interactions with others were often marked by an earnest sincerity, but she struggled with more nuanced social dynamics. Despite her challenges in socialising, her genuine nature and connection to nature drew some people to her, especially those who appreciated authenticity and simplicity.
CON 13 - moderate constitution contributed to her overall resilience. She could endure the physical demands of her undertaker duties and cope with the rigours of her druidic training in the wilderness. Her ability to withstand environmental challenges allowed her to thrive in the sometimes harsh conditions of the forest.
Defining Events
Bridgid enamored by the whispers of the wind and the mysteries of the ancient forest, felt an innate connection to nature from a young age. Her village's wise seer recognised her unique bond and guided her toward the path of druidic magic. Drawn by the call of the wild, Bridgid embraced the Circle of the Moon, seeking to protect the delicate balance of life and death while channeling the primal forces that echoed through the untamed landscapes she called home.
Over the past 2-3 years, Bridgid has roamed untamed wildernesses, honing her druidic skills. She's thwarted unnatural threats to the delicate ecosystems she safeguards, and guided departed spirits to their resting places with solemn undertaker rites. Bridgid's journey marked by encounters with mystical creatures and forging alliances with kindred spirits, has deepened her understanding of the interconnectedness of life. Now, a seasoned Circle of the Moon druidess, she senses a new calling, drawing her towards a destiny entwined with a diverse group of adventurers.
Fueled by a foreboding vision of encroaching darkness threatening her village, Bridgid embarked on a journey to safeguard her homeland. The elders spoke of a ancient evil distrurbing the natural order. Bridgid's druidic intuition urged her to confront this peril head-on. Seeking allies beyond her village, she left, guided by a sense of duty and conviction that her unique abilities were vital. Bridgid yearns to quell the looming threat, protect the delicate balance of nature, and unravel the mysteries foretold in her visions. This adventure, she believes, is a crucial chapter in her quest to harmonise the forces of life and death.
Short-term Goal: Bridgid's immediate focus is to unravel the mystery behind the encroaching darkness that threatens her village, using her druidic powers to restore balance and protect her homeland.
Long-term Goal: Driven by a broader vision, Bridgid aspiries to foster a deeper connection between the natural world and civilisation. She seeks to guide others in understanding and respecting the delicate harmony of life, ensuring teh coexistence of communities and nature. In a peaceful world, Bridgid envisions nurturing sanctuaries where people and the wilderness thrive in symbiotic unity.
Relationships
See above about 4 specific NPCs of significance in Bridgid's life at the start of the campaign.
Surel Windchimes (Bard): Surel and Bridgid established a unique bond through correspondence over several years. Surel, a bard with a penchant for storytelling, exchanged tales of their respective journeys with Bridgid, fostering a deep camaraderie through shared experiences. They finally met in OwlReach a year ago during a lively festival, where their written connection blossomed into a genuine friendship. Surel's singing resonates with the natural world, and Bridgid finds solace in the bard's enchanting voice, reinforcing their shared appreciation for the beauty and balance of life.
Surel Windchimes, the bard, owes much of her beliefs, skills, and character to her beloved mentor, Apheareses. An elderly gentleman, beyond his prime, Apheareses is not only a mentor but also Bridgid's father's brother (aka Uncle). A follower of Luthien, Apheareses recognized the potential for a meaningful connection between Surel and Bridgid Blackthorn. Guided by a deep understanding of both their journeys, Apheareses facilitated the correspondence that bridged the gap between the enchanting melodies of Surel's music and the harmonious whispers of nature in Bridgid's world. Their connection, rooted in mentorship and familial bonds, continues to weave the threads of fate for both Surel and Bridgid
Orreck Hammerborn (Cleric): Bridgid and Orreck's collaboration in the village chapel occurred in Bridgid's hometown of Rustmill. Despite the geographical separation, their shared past creates a strong bond. The memories of their joint healing rituals and the balance they sought to maintain the village linger in their hearts. Now as they embark on adventures far from both their homes, their connection serves as a link to their shared roots, uniting them in their pursuit of balance and harmony.
Yasha (Fighter): Bridgid's encounter with Yasha about 18 moon cycles ago now, unfolded when her path crossed with Yasha's hunting party, leading to a perilous situation with an aggressive pack of gnolls. Yasha, a kind but duty-bound warrior, took responsibility for the unintended danger Bridgid faced. Despite initial hesitations to aid those outside his immediate care or tribe, Yasha's sense of duty compelled him to intervene. Bridgid, grateful for his assistance, recognized Yasha's honorable nature and offered her own skills as a guide in return during his travels. Their connection, forged in a moment of shared danger, evolved into a partnership grounded in mutual respect under the situation brought forth between them. They have not seen each other since this encounter until reaching OwlReach, although both carry a gnoll ear around their neck in remembrance of the event.
Bridgid's mentor, Elder Willowheart, the Village Seer, recognizing the need for unique insights and mystical items, advised Bridgid to seek out Otumnal, an elderly elf residing on the outskirts of OwlReach. Known for his eccentricities and deep connection to nature, Otumnal's expertise in herblore and magical artifacts makes him a valuable resource. Despite the oddball reputation, Otumnal's wisdom is widely respected. Bridgid, sent on a quest by Elder Willowheart, approaches Otumnal to acquire a special item crucial for the well-being of her village. While traveling to OwlReach, Bridgid came into passing a couple on the road headed in the same direction Remornia and Orthus. We discussed spell casting a few other minor things along the way.
Bridgid exudes unwavering empathy and a calming presence. Her innate wisdom fosters trust, making her a dependable ally. Her commitment to preserving life and nature aligns with group goals, instilling confidence in her reliability. Bridgid's respect for others' perspectives and her ability to find beauty in diversity contribute to a harmonious team dynamic. Her sincerity, combined with a willingness to share the burdens of others, cultivates a sense of camaraderie and makes her a cherished companion in the adventures' journey.
Flaws
Bridgid deeply regrets a moment of hesitation that allowed a malevolent force to harm a beloved woodland creature. Failing to act swiftly haunts her dreams, driving her to seek redemption for the harm caused. This remorse fuels her commitment to safeguarding the natural world and has become a driving force behind her unwavering dedication to preventing similar tragedies from befalling the delicate balance of life.