Horse people are among the most ordinary people in the world — until they set down their tools and take up an adventuring career. Equestrians are often determined, persistent, and patient due to the diligence required to make a successful rider. The horse comes before the equestrian in every facet of life, and they will always care for their horse before themselves. An equestrian understands the value of hard work and the importance of compassion, but they’re often a little socially estranged and devoted to their mounts.
- Skill Proficiencies: Animal Handling
- Tool Proficiencies: Vehicles (Land)
- Equipment: A riding horse, saddle and bridle, a set of traveler’s clothes, and a pouch containing 15 gp.
Your years of experience and dedication to horsemanship have honed your skills to an exceptional level. This profound connection with your mount allows you to perform extraordinary feats while riding. As a result, you gain access to the Mounted Combatant feat. This feature reflects your ability to seamlessly maneuver your horse in combat, protect it from harm, and use your mount's speed and strength to your advantage in battle.
Mounted Combatant
- You have advantage on melee attack rolls against unmounted creatures that are smaller than your mount.
- You can force an attack targeted at your mount to target you instead.
- If your mount is subjected to an effect that allows it to make a Dexterity saving throw to take only half damage, it instead takes no damage if it succeeds on the saving throw, and only half damage if it fails.
Your mastery of mounted combat and deep bond with your horse make you a formidable force on the battlefield, ensuring both your safety and that of your loyal steed.
Suggested Characteristics
Equestrians are driven by a deep bond with their horses, seeing them as more than just animals but as trusted companions and partners. This bond shapes their worldview, making them fiercely protective and exceptionally loyal. The life of an equestrian involves a unique blend of rugged independence and nurturing care, as they often traverse the wilderness or open roads, finding solace in nature and the companionship of their mount. While some equestrians ride for the thrill of adventure and exploration, others are motivated by a sense of duty to protect their steeds and maintain the ancient traditions of horsemanship. Their dedication to their horses can sometimes make them appear aloof or singularly focused, but those who earn their trust will find an unwavering ally. Whether tending to a stable or riding into battle, equestrians embody the spirit of freedom, resilience, and the enduring connection between rider and horse.
| d8 | Personality Trait |
|---|---|
| 1 | I am a devoted caregiver. My horse's needs always come before my own. |
| 2 | I’m calm under pressure. Years of dealing with skittish young horses have made me unshakeable. |
| 3 | I enjoy teaching other how to ride and care for horses, and I'm a very patient instructor. |
| 4 | I feel more at home in a stable or on the open road than in any city. |
| 5 | I prefer to watch and listen rather than speak out of turn. Being a silent observer suits me. |
| 6 | Once I form a bond, whether with a horse or a person, my loyalty is unbreakable. |
| 7 | I have steady hands. In tense situations, I remain calm and composed, knowing that panic serves no purpose. |
| 8 | I cherish my freedom and the open road, always ready for the next journey. |
| d6 | Ideal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Compassion. The care and well-being of animals and people alike is my highest priority. (Good) |
| 2 | Responsibility. With great power over my mount comes great responsibility to protect and serve. (Lawful) |
| 3 | Freedom. Life is meant to be lived with the wind in your hair and the open road ahead. (Chaotic) |
| 4 | Dominance. The strong should rule over the weak, and I will ensure my place at the top. (Evil) |
| 5 | Perseverance. Hard work and determination can overcome any obstacle. (Neutral) |
| 6 | Mastery. To be the best rider and caretaker, mastering every skill and technique, is my ultimate goal. (Any) |
| d6 | Bond |
|---|---|
| 1 | My horse is my closest friend and I will protect them at any cost. |
| 2 | My family has raised horses for generations, and I will uphold our traditions and continue our legacy. |
| 3 | I once had a horse who was taken from me, and I am determined to find and rescue them. |
| 4 | There is a particular stable where I learned to ride, and I owe the stablemaster my life. |
| 5 | I made a vow to my riding instructor to always honor the bond between horse and rider. |
| 6 | Someone hurt or killed one of my horses, and I will make them pay for their cruelty. |
| d6 | Flaw |
|---|---|
| 1 | I'm protective to a fault. I tend to overreact when my horse is threatened, often putting myself in unnecessary danger. |
| 2 | I struggle to communicate with people as well as I do with animals. |
| 3 | I can become so focused on my horse's needs or my goals that I neglect other important tasks or relationships. Sometimes, even myself! |
| 4 | Once I set my mind on something, it's almost impossible to change it, even if it's for the better. |
| 5 | I find it hard to trust others with my horse, let alone with my own personal matters. |
| 6 | I have a hard time letting go of old equipment, mementos, and even retired or deceased horses, cluttering my life with reminders of the past. |
Comments