In order for there to be high living and status in any society, there must be someone to handle all of the dirty deeds that must be done to make standard living a desirable achievement, and that is where you come in. You are in charge of dealing with the ends of all of the unwanted and undesirables of the society you inhabit. Whether you were born into this profession, were ordered by the established powers that be, or whether you started off your life as a criminal and have taken up the axe and shovel to atone for your own misdeeds, you are now The Executioner.
It is not simple enough to say that you must kill people. You have many more jobs than just being the symbol of death at the end of life. An executioner effectively takes it upon themselves to be the outcast of society so that the rest of society can function properly. The duties of your office include not only the civil executions of those warranted for death, but also executioners provided medical care to lepers and prostitutes, taxed lepers, prostitutes, and criminals, and even sometimes controlled gaming houses. They were also in charge of the latrines and cesspools, clearing of the dead from dwellings, and disposing of animal carcasses. The term is also extended to administrators of severe physical punishment that is not prescribed to kill, but which may result in death, such as torture and corporal punishment.
Any or all of these professions might fall into your skill set. Bear in mind, it's not everyday that someone needs to be executed, and you still have to make a living. Spreading out a few different jobs across a few towns in your district could be quite profitable, and the travel would be a good break from the work.
- Skill Proficiencies: You are now Proficient in Intimidation, Medicine, and/or Religion. Choose Two.
- Tool Proficiencies: You are Proficient with the Healer's Kit and Torture Tools(Custom).
- Languages: Your travels have given you familiarity in another language. Choose one.
As an executioner, you may now be shunned by your neighbors, but they hold you in high regard for your ability to carry out your profession. They might refuse to accept your money, but let you take food for free. Maybe there is a special table for you at certain establishments that are expecting you to be in town. Perhaps there are extra blankets or clothing left in your room at the inn. However the people can, they will show their appreciation, but they would rather not speak to you directly.
It is commonplace for the executioners to speak to town officials more so that the common people, so expect most of your conversation to be business related. The law of the land that issued your orders is the entity granting you absolution for whatever unspeakable act they need doing. Pay close attention of what is being asked and how the warrants read. Serving warrants of execution and doling out punishments comes with some compensation from The State, so be sure to collect after the dealing is done. There are a few others who are in the same line of work, and they are uncommon enough that a town guard or city official could point you their way. This may be needed if you require assistance with several punishments or executions in a matter of days. It not an established guild or respected organization, so there are no dues to pay, but it lacks camaraderie.
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Posted Jan 6, 2023Hello all. I am the creator.
I would love any and all constructive criticism for this Background. I will take anything and everything into consideration.
So far, it has been based on period information about the lives of the executioners and their families. Businesses, community, oddjobs, etc.
Thank you all in advance. I will try to respond if possible.