You've taken men to war. You've taken lives. You trained the soldiers you commanded, leading by example.
When you choose this background, work with your DM to determine which military organization you were a part of, how how many soldiers were under you command and what became of them in case they'll be a part of your campaign.
- Skill Proficiencies: Athletics, Intimidation [/skill]Survival[/skill]
- Equipment: a [/item]shortsword or [/item]shield baring the symbol of your unit and military and signifying you're rank, a trophy taken from a fallen enemy (a dagger, broken blade, or piece of a banner not worth more than 5gp), a set of common clothes, and a [/item]pouch containing 20 gp
You commanded a group of soldiers, roll how you faired in combat:
| d8 | Specialty |
|---|---|
| 1 | They were all killed in a battle, you had to flee to survive. Others in your army have heard of your shame. |
| 2 | Your unit was defeated in battle, half of your men died, the other half were taken hostage, you were ransomed out and the fate of your men remains unknown. |
| 3 | Your unit fought a hard battle and lost most of its men. You and some of your soldiers survived but you failed your mission. Upon return to report your unit was disbanded due to lack of available reinforcements. |
| 4 | Your unit was sent on a mission behind enemy lines. Your decision led to save your mens' lives at the expense of the success of the mission. You were not detected but were unsuccessful and you were removed from your position because of that. |
| 5 | You fought a hard battle and won. Most of your men died but you and the ones that survived are considered heroes. You were given leave due to injuries and must find your own path. |
| 6 | You were commanding a unit that did nothing too important. You were all fired due to a lack of funds. Everyone is okay and went their own way. |
| 7 | You did pretty well as a commander. Most of your men are still alive and you still have your head. Your unit was made into an honor guard for a noble that payed well to have your famous unit but you found that boring and moved to find your fortune on your own. |
| 8 | You led your unit on an important mission behind enemy lines and due to your capabilities as a leader you managed to get everyone back with a resounding success. You are a hero and your soldiers owe you a debt for life. Your commanders wanted you to remain in command but you decided to set out on your own. |
You have a military rank from your career as a commander. Soldiers loyal to your former military organization still recognize your authority and influence, and they defer to you if they are of a lower rank. You can invoke your rank to exert influence over other soldiers and requisition simple equipment or horses for temporary use. You can also usually gain access to friendly military encampments and fortresses where your rank is recognized.
Suggested Characteristics
The horrors of war combined with the rigid discipline of military service leave their mark on all soldiers, shaping their ideals, creating strong bonds, and often leaving them scarred and vulnerable to fear, shame, and hatred.
| d8 | Personality Trait |
|---|---|
| 1 | I’m always polite and respectful. |
| 2 | I’m haunted by memories of war. I can’t get the images of violence out of my mind. |
| 3 | I’ve lost many men who were friends, and I’m haunted by their faces. |
| 4 | I’m full of inspiring and cautionary tales from my military experience relevant to almost every combat situation. |
| 5 | I can stare down a hell hound without flinching. |
| 6 | I enjoy being strong and like breaking things. |
| 7 | I have a crude sense of humor. |
| 8 | I face problems head-on. A simple, direct solution is the best path to success. |
| d6 | Ideal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Greater Good. Our lot is to lay down our lives in defense of others. (Good) |
| 2 | Responsibility. I do what I must and obey just authority. (Lawful) |
| 3 | I don't care what consequences my actions have as long as they are in line with my orders and training (Chaotic) |
| 4 | Might. In life as in war, the stronger force wins. (Evil) |
| 5 | Anything for my mission. (Chaotic) |
| 6 | Nation. My city, nation, or people are all that matter. (Any) |
| d6 | Bond |
|---|---|
| 1 | I would still lay down my life for the people I served with. |
| 2 | Someone saved my life on the battlefield. To this day, I will never leave a friend behind. |
| 3 | My honor is my life. |
| 4 | I’ll never forget the crushing defeat my company suffered or the enemies who dealt it. |
| 5 | Those who fight beside me are those worth dying for. |
| 6 | I fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. |
| d6 | Flaw |
|---|---|
| 1 | The monstrous enemy we faced in battle still leaves me quivering with fear. |
| 2 | I have little respect for anyone who is not a proven warrior. |
| 3 | I made a terrible mistake in battle that cost many lives—and I would do anything to keep that mistake secret. |
| 4 | My hatred of my enemies is blind and unreasoning. |
| 5 | I obey the law, even if the law causes misery. |
| 6 | I’d rather eat my armor than admit when I’m wrong. |
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