The Underdark of Lyron is an ever-shifting labyrinthine network of tunnels, caves, and crevasses. Geological activity, the burrowing of worms and other beasts, and the machinations of the weird and unknowable reshape paths at a moment's notice. In a world such as this, a knowledgeable guide is worth their weight in gold. The first wayfinders were Drow, nomads beneath the surface much in the same way their kin travel the surface travel. Since then, the art has expanded to anyone with enough nerve and courage (some would say foolishness) to brave the depths.
Wayfinders travel paths between established subterranean locations like dwarven holds when surface roads are too slow or otherwise unfeasible. Additionally, they lead expeditions to unknown subterranean locations: lost temples, buried wizard towers, and other troves of riches and power. Whatever obstacle encountered, a wayfinder will know a way through, around, over, or under. Just be prepared to pay the price.
- Skill Proficiencies: Perception, Survival
- Tool Proficiencies: Herbalism Kit
- Languages: One of your choice
- Equipment: A climber's kit, 50 feet of hempen rope, a hooded lantern, a set of traveler's clothing, and a pouch containing 15 gp.
You've spent a significant amount of time in the Underdark, as such you have advantage on checks made to recall information about it's flora, fauna, and natural hazards. You are also familiar with it's major settlements and trade routes and can recall the twists and turns of passageways and tunnels such that you can always retrace your steps underground. You’re also well acquainted with foraging and survival in the Underdark, and can determine when sources of food and water are safe to consume. You can always find sufficient food and water for yourself and up to five other people in the Underdark, as long as sustenance is available in the area.
Suggested Characteristics
Wayfarers are viewed with a critical eye by surface folk, seemingly afraid that they'll bring the horrors of the dark back with them. Each individual does the harrowing work for their own reasons.
| d8 | Personality Trait |
|---|---|
| 1 | I expect everyone to pull their weight. |
| 2 | Silence is golden; I speak only when absolutely necessary. |
| 3 | I can sleep anywhere - even suspended over a chasm. |
| 4 | I get antsy in wide open spaces. |
| 5 | I'm always happy to chat with strangers and hear their stories. |
| 6 | I'm always looking for a more efficient way of doing things. |
| 7 | I've traveled from one end of the world to the other and am appropriately skeptical of outlandish claims. |
| 8 | I get nervous when anyone else is navigating for me. |
| d6 | Ideal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Discipline. If everyone follows the rules, everyone goes home safe. (Lawful) |
| 2 | Discovery. The secrets of the depths hold a bounty for us all. (Good) |
| 3 | Self-sufficiency. If you need others to survive then you are asking for trouble. (Chaotic) |
| 4 | Power. I hope to uncover the means to seize my rightful place in the world. (Evil) |
| 5 | Nihilism. We all deal with the same callous world, It's only a matter of time before we're swallowed by the dark. (Neutral) |
| 6 | Pride. A job well done is it's own reward. (Any) |
| d6 | Bond |
|---|---|
| 1 | The band of Drow that taught me wayfinding are my family. |
| 2 | A mind flayer took something from me. I'm going to take something from it. |
| 3 | My best friend in the world is a creature most would consider "monstrous." |
| 4 | The Underdark is harsh, deadly, and uncomfortable. It's also home. |
| 5 | With every expedition I bring the light of civilization deeper into the world. |
| 6 | I offer my services to a nation in expeditions beneath it's borders. |
| d6 | Flaw |
|---|---|
| 1 | Who told you I'm paranoid?! Who's watching me?! |
| 2 | My dangerous lifestyle has made me reckless and uncaring about my own safety. |
| 3 | Horses and and other livestock terrify me more than any of the monsters in the Underdark. |
| 4 | I always have to be in charge, and if I'm not I'll make my opinions known. |
| 5 | I have no faith in the capabilities of non-wayfinders in the deep. |
| 6 | I'm blunt to the point of rudeness. |
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