Brought through the ranks as a soldier, you know the ins and outs of the battlefield. You also know when to run. You left the line of duty without authorization from your superiors. A death sentence in most cultures, yet you believe it to be the right course of action.
When you choose this background, work with your DM to determine which military organization you were a part of, and what event(s) lead to your desertion. Were you a part of an army for a tyrant who demanded the slaughter of innocents? Or did you simply not want to be commanded by others? Perhaps your only reason for joining was to keep a friend safe and your desertion was simply to bury that friend after you failed.
- Skill Proficiencies: Survival, plus one from among Athletics, Sleight of Hand, and Stealth
- Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set, or Vehicles (land)
- Equipment: A Shovel, a one person tent, camouflage netting, and a pouch containing 8 gp
You've left military service unlawfully and have become somewhat paranoid of those in uniform. If your identity is discovered by those searching for you, you would be hard pressed to produce a likely alibi. Therefore you have learned the signs that note the arrival and tendencies of individuals and groups in military service.
After spending at least one hour exploring in a populated place, you know where the guard barracks and patrol routes are located. Additionally, you are aware whenever military or quasi-military personnel are approaching you (within line of sight) regardless of whether they are in uniform.
Suggested Characteristics
Deserters are always on the run and can be very timid and jumpy. It's difficult for someone so afraid of those around them to form bonds with those same people. Those that they do form bonds with are likely to be regarded as family to the deserter. A deserter wants to be accepted and fears rejection more than most.
| d6 | Personality Trait |
|---|---|
| 1 | I jump when a door is opened abruptly. |
| 2 | I'm constantly scanning my surroundings. |
| 3 | I don't like unpacking because I expect to keep moving. |
| 4 | I prefer to be indoors in populated places, away from prying eyes. |
| 5 | I like to stick to less traveled roads. |
| 6 | I like moving around during the day, when I can use crowds to hide. |
| d6 | Bond |
|---|---|
| 1 | Friends can keep me safe from those looking for me. |
| 2 | I ran to save a friend on the battlefield, and I'd do it again. |
| 3 | I can't help if I'm dead, so I run when the going gets tough. |
| 4 | I deserted on the battlefield, but I would have stayed if a friend was in danger. |
| 5 | Nothing is worth dying for. |
| 6 | I have so much left to live for, I'll run until I do it all! |
| d6 | Flaw |
|---|---|
| 1 | I always run if I see a guard running toward me. |
| 2 | I won't go anywhere that I've been in the service. |
| 3 | I'm suspicious of everyone I meet. |
| 4 | I'm afraid to ask strangers for information, including directions. |
| 5 | If a fight's not going my way, nothing can keep me there. |
| 6 | If we're surrounded, I'll fight like an animal until I see an exit. |
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