Welcome to the Lands of Arda

Backstory

Where did your character grow up? What place do they call "home" now? (could be the same or different.) [75 words max]

I was born in Ironbeard, a majestic stronghold nestled within granite peaks. While its grandeur was unparalleled, my path led me elsewhere. I journeyed to a smaller enclave, similar in makeup but not as grand in stature. Here, among its humble stone corridors and echoing chambers, I trained as a warden, vowing to protect its people and secrets. This unassuming bastion, reminiscent of my birthplace, is the haven I now call home.

Who raised your character and how? What are these people doing now? [75 words max]

Raised by my stern father Dorn and caring mother Elara, alongside my two brothers, Brevik and Jorund, I was taught the values of honor and diligence. Dorn, a master blacksmith, instilled discipline, while Elara shared tales of our ancestors, kindling my imagination. Brevik, ever the jester, kept our spirits high, whereas Jorund and I explored the mountains' mysteries. Today, Dorn and Elara oversee Ironbeard's forges, Brevik trades in distant lands, and Jorund trains the next generation of wardens.

How did your attribute scores affect your character? [175 words max]

With a Herculean strength and an iron-clad constitution, I am a formidable presence on the battlefield. My blows land with devastating force, and I can withstand physical challenges that would fell many others. I'm the bulwark, the frontline defender my companions can rely on, but my sheer physical prowess often overshadows other aspects of my character.

My dexterity is average, making me not as nimble or quick as some of my lighter-footed companions. Precision tasks or quick maneuvers are not my strong suit, and I tend to rely more on my brute force approach.

However, my lower intelligence and wisdom often means I'm not the best at strategizing or picking up on intricate details. Complex puzzles, arcane lore, and discerning motives or lies can elude me. Moreover, my notably low charisma means I'm not the most eloquent speaker or diplomat. Social interactions can be awkward; I might come across as brusque or inadvertently offensive. But beneath this rough exterior, my dedication to the warden's path and my companions is unwavering, even if I sometimes struggle to express it.

What made your character obtain the class they have now? [75 words max]

In Ironbeard's shadows, I witnessed a warden single-handedly protect a hamlet from a Winter Wolf. Their harmony with the land and unmatched valor captivated me. It was Jorund, my oldest brother, who introduced me to the warden's path, revealing its sacred bond with nature and duty to defend. Their teachings, coupled with my innate desire to shield those in need, drew me to embrace the warden's mantle, melding the strength of stone with the heart's steadfastness.

What your character doing in recent years before the campaign's start? [75 words max]

Over the last few years, I've been assigned to a garrison guarding the Stone Pass, a critical junction between our homeland and the outside world. The increasing threats of wandering beasts and rogue bandits kept me vigilant. When not on duty, I ventured deeper into the surrounding wilds, mastering the warden's rites and honing my connection to the land. Amidst these duties, I also helped rebuild a nearby settlement, reinforcing its defenses and training its inhabitants in combat.

What motivated your character to leave their previous lifestyle and become adventurers? [120 words max]

Amidst an unforgiving winter, a prophecy from deep within Ironbeard's ancient archives resurfaced. It didn't herald broad doom, but instead held a personal resonance for Clan Rockheart. The prophecy intimated a shadow that would challenge our unity and esteemed legacy. When the chilling words spread, they cast a solemn mood across every clan gathering.

On an unforgettable evening, a wise elder cross-referenced our clan's chronicles with the prophecy. His research hinted that the key to saving our legacy might be linked to the legendary Heartstone — a gem of unity and protection from our ancestral tales. Though its location remains a mystery, recent rumors suggest the first clue to its whereabouts lies in an old dwarven mine near Owlreach, a place now believed to be cursed.

With Clan Rockheart's future at stake, I became convinced that uncovering this clue was of paramount importance. As such, Owlreach, with its ominous mine, would be my initial destination. Leaving the storied halls of Ironbeard, I set forth on a mission not just of adventure, but of ancestral importance, with hopes of unveiling the Heartstone's location and reclaiming our clan's undying spirit.

Which people are important for your character? [75 words max]

My mother Elara, the keeper of our clan's tales, holds a special place in my heart, having shaped my values and beliefs. Her wisdom always guides me. Jorund, my oldest brother and mentor, is my anchor to the ways of the warden, reminding me of my responsibilities and roots. His teachings and camaraderie are invaluable. As the campaign begins, their words and lessons are my constant companions, influencing my choices and actions.

What connections does your character have to the other player characters? [175 words max]

Dave Goldtouch and I have a bond that extends beyond our immediate acquaintance. His uncle, Roderick, was someone I knew and respected deeply. Roderick's tales of young Dave were always filled with pride, and it's clear to see why. Each time Dave and I converse, I can't help but see a reflection of Roderick's teachings in him. It lends an inherent trust between us, having shared respect for someone who deeply impacted both our lives.

With Kavax, our connection is fresh but memorable. We had only recently crossed paths, yet a shared evening of dice games quickly solidified our rapport. That night, amidst the clatter of dice, playful bets, and hearty laughter, an unexpected bond was formed. In that brief span, I came to appreciate Kavax's spirit and character. Now, as we venture forth together, I'm grateful for these connections, both old and new, as they provide a foundation of trust and camaraderie in the challenges that lie ahead.

Name a promise you have made to another player character that you would never break. [75 words max]

I gave Dave Goldtouch my solemn word, amidst the echoing memories of his uncle Roderick's teachings. I vowed to stand beside him, shielding and supporting him through every battle and challenge, just as Roderick would have. To Dave, this wasn't just a promise of camaraderie; it was an oath bound in the spirit of mentorship and legacy, and one I intend to uphold with unwavering dedication.

If nothing happened, what short/long-term goals does your character have? [75 words max]

In a world untouched by strife, my foremost short-term goal would be to master the deeper rites of the warden, further binding myself to the land's spirit. Long-term, I'd envision establishing a sanctuary within the mountains, a place where aspiring wardens could train and where the weary could find solace. Merging Ironbeard's traditions with the vast knowledge of the wider world, I'd strive to fortify our bonds with nature and kin.

What makes your character a likeable adventurer that others would be willing to have to risk their lives for? [75 words max]

My demeanor, forged in the stern halls of Ironbeard, is notably gruff, but it masks a deep sense of duty and loyalty. Those who take the time to know me understand that beneath my rugged exterior lies an unwavering commitment to my comrades. I value actions over words and have, on countless occasions, stood as the bulwark when danger loomed. It's this steadfast reliability, combined with my no-nonsense approach, that earns the respect and trust of fellow adventurers.

What has your character done in the past, that they now deeply regret?[75 words max]

While stationed at Stone Pass, I received an invitation from a renowned warden elder to study advanced rites at a distant sanctuary. My commitment to my immediate duties, combined with a tinge of apprehension about the unfamiliar, led me to decline. I later learned the elder passed away that winter, taking with him a trove of unshared knowledge. The missed chance to learn and grow under such guidance is a regret that constantly reminds me to seize opportunities.

Are there any people that would wish harm to your character and why?[100 words max]

Galdar, a once-respected mason from Ironbeard. During a collaborative project to fortify Stone Pass, I discovered Galdar cutting corners, using subpar materials for personal profit. I reported his actions, resulting in his banishment from our homeland. Since then, Galdar has harbored a deep resentment towards me. Rumors suggest he has allied himself with shady factions, potentially seeking revenge for his ruined reputation. His intimate knowledge of Ironbeard's defenses, combined with his new alliances, poses a genuine concern for my safety and that of my kin.

More optional plot hooks: [Choose one]

In the midst of darkness, amidst a horde of nightmarish arachnid creatures led by a formidable Phase 2 entity that bore a striking resemblance to a Drider, stood Thrain Rockheart, a resolute Mountain Dwarf. He personified selflessness and valor.

As the tide of terror surged around them, Thrain confronted overwhelming odds with unwavering determination. Aware of the impending danger, he acted without hesitation, prioritizing his comrades' safety above all else.

In the bleakest hour, Thrain's indomitable spirit shone as a guiding light. The Drider-like Phase 2 entity, an embodiment of malevolence and guile, sought to extinguish their hope. It was then that Thrain's unyielding resolve clashed with the malevolent force.

Paralyzed and ensnared by his own shadow, Thrain endured torment few could comprehend. However, he remained steadfast, fighting the malevolent force with a heart filled with valor.

Ultimately, it was not the spiders or the Drider-like entity's sinister design that overcame Thrain Rockheart. It was his own unbreakable spirit, his willingness to sacrifice himself to protect those he cherished, that defined his legacy.

As the arachnids descended upon him, cloaking him in darkness, Thrain's sacrifice illuminated the path for his companions to escape the surrounding horrors. His memory will forever be etched in the annals of heroism, a testament to the enduring power of love, bravery, and selflessness.

Facing insurmountable darkness, Thrain Rockheart emerged as a guiding force, a Mountain Dwarf Warden who, in his final act of valor, demonstrated that heroes are born not of the strength of their arms but of the fortitude of their hearts. May his name be honored and revered, for he gave his all to ensure the safety of his companions, leaving behind a legacy as brilliant as the stars in the night sky.

Backstory

He grew up in the slums as his family was poor in the crimson kingdom

His mother Nyoma raised him alone doing any kind of work she could while his father ( he doesn't know his name) left to be an adventure that he would never return from he believes his father to be dead. His master Gedeon the one who trained him to be a paladin is more like a father then his real dad

With wanting to help his mother so his goal was to get stronger to protect her at all costs because she sacrificed so much to keep him alive and healthy even before her own well being

What made your character obtain the class they have now?

As he was training one day His soon to be master Gedeon noticed that he was quite strong and had some good charisma he came to talk to him and found him to be a good fit to be a paladin so he as him to join him his master made sure that his mother was taken care off.

In the last 2 years he has been training and undergoing the trails that his master put in place for him to become a paladin and was doing low level quests as a way to earn enough coin to keep his stuff and body in shape. In the final year he became a paladin after he pass the final test.

sure the lively hood of his mother and to keep her save and make enough coin to have her set for life.

My character considers that others should not steal. As well as do not kill with out reason.

He had saw that Whisper and Hiyamano has basically scammed a fellow and is making sure that Whisper and Hiyamano pays back there debt's to Sho along with accompanying them to make sure it happens and doesn't happen again.

He promished Sho that he would make sure no one tries to scam him again after Whisper and Hiyamano did.

If nothing happened, what short/long term goals does your character have? [75 words max]

His short term goal is to become a powerful warrior to make sure he survives and so does his mother. long term is to make his mother happy and set her up for life

he is a righteous paladin that along as you hold true to your self he will not bother you and will never back stab you

What has your character done in the past, that they now deeply regret?

He wasn't able to save the first person he was sent to save on a quest so he is deeply guilted by that 

Drath the fearless back story

Drath got corrupted while in the stasis, becoming a vine humanoid.

Backstory

Where did your character grow up? What place do they call "home" now? (could be the same or different.) [75 words max]

Fenthick grew up on the streets of a medium sized city (at-least some commerce, sense of society, and infrastructure), orphaned at a young age (no memory other than the streets).  This city would be located near/in forests where he would build his wilderness survival skills over time – surviving by both foraging (and later hunting) and the food/medicine provided by the orphanage. He has traditionally lived in and around that city (wilderness + neighboring towns).

Who raised your character and how? What are these people doing now? [75 words max]

Fenthick was raised by what attention and support the orphanage could provide, the community of other orphans/urchins, and the cold harsh realities of both the street and the wild. He routinely sends money and other resources to the orphanage when he has the resources but otherwise doesn’t visit. Doris Stoutheart and Sybil Thamisa ran the orphanage, Utab (fellow orphan, half orc) was his confidant and partner in crime – they at times gleefully cross paths.

How did your attribute scores affect your character? [175 words max]

Fenthick has always relied on speed, strategy, and finesse to get the upper hand in both life and combat. At a young age, Fenthick would quietly swipe his portion of food before it made its way to the table or from those who wrestled it from him. This dexterity became a major part of his toolset for life as he refined his ability to infiltrate, escape, outmaneuver, and hunt. Meanwhile, a life on the street and within the wilds demanded Fenthick persevere with resilience or perish, and to develop the wisdom to know when to run or stay and fight. Fenthick was never particularly strong nor smart, but neither was he weak or slow. Given his place in life, his lack of tact and at times gruff perspective of the world makes him an extremely poor communicator – especially to those who do not know him.

What made your character obtain the class they have now? [75 words max]

The skills of a ranger naturally came to Fenthick over time; stealthing through the streets and wilds to forage for food, stalking both a vain mark in the city and the deer in the clearing. To survive, he learned how to hide, track, flight, and flee in both the wild and the sprawl of the city.

What your character doing in recent years before the campaign's start? [75 words max]

Trying to get to some degree of stability without a need to have to pilfer for his next meal. He finds success here and there, slowly building resources, paying off debts, and sending a portion back to the orphanage that ensured he didn't starve. Shortly before the campaign, he completed a bounty for a small group of bandits, giving him a fresh start – without debt – and coin in his pocket.

What motivated your character to leave their previous lifestyle and become adventurers? [120 words max]

Danger has always been part of Fenthick’s life, sometimes more quietly and sometimes that is all that seemed to exist. Adventuring presented a guaranteed risk with an opportunity for safety and comfort on the other side; a danger he could choose opposed to be subjected to – his way to choose his path in the world opposed to having it forced upon him. Freedom.

Which people are important for your character? [75 words max]

The orphanage, in particular both Doris and Sybil, along with Utab whom he considers family. By extension, he feels a natural pull to those who are downtrodden and vulnerable – particularly the cruel and unearned twists of fate.

What connections does your character have to the other player characters? [175 words max]

Fenthick would often watch those on the road or as they come into town; looking for both marks and those in need who deserve help. At times, he would offer aid in the form of a guide to those who entered - both in the city and surrounding land. This was sometimes straightforward work; guiding those who need help away from hazards and towards what they desire. Other times, it was to get closer to an ideal mark for his redistributive justice.

He met Vigo when he came to town, identified an easy mark, and offered his services as a guide to help the beaming paladin. Vigo was looking for a mage and Fenthick was glad to provide his services for a fee, and an opportunity to take something from his pocket. Fenthick guided Vigo to the mage, having heard of her from Utab, who saw her traveling through town. Fenthick met Sister Teddy when he accidentally poisoned himself learning poisons sometime much later. Luckily, she was traveling nearby (in town, wild, etc) and was able to aid him.

Name a promise you have made to another player character that you would never break. [75 words max]

To aid you whenever you visit my region and need help, out of repayment for your kindness to me.

If nothing happened, what short/long term goals does your character have? [75 words max]

Build security and safety in terms of possessions, friendships, and his profession. As those goals are being accomplished, he would continue his own approach to redistributive justice and sharpening his skills. Quietly, in the back of his mind, his thoughts would wander to where he came from and why he was left - tempted to explore these questions but apathetic and unhopeful in his success.

What makes your character a likeable adventurer that others would be willing to have to risk their lives for? [75 words max]

While he is gruff and doesn't particularly care about what people think, he earnestly does care for those that are close to him, he tries to be kind in his actions if not his words, and he consistently acts in alignment of what he considers good and just despite the consequences to himself. Aside from ensuring his own stability and safety, his only real desires are to grow his skills and protect the vulnerable.

What has your character done in the past, that they now deeply regret?[75 words max]

As a young urchin, he stole a small store of gold he overheard was under the floor boards of a small family's house.  The next day he used it to buy food, clothing, and donated the rest to the orphanage secretly. Several days later, he heard that the family did not have the funds to take their daughter to seek healing after disease struck - she died shortly after.

This is more for plot hooks. It could be a missed opportunity or something they feel bad about.

Those he stole from, those he has sabotaged out of what he considered vigilante justice, those he has taken a bounty on or helped the law identify. Fenthick routinely works with both sides of the law.  

Optional plot hook.

My character's lineage might not be what I think it is. -This one will be unknown to you as player as well. Do not add details-