Background: Slaved Gladiator

 Introduction

From the darkest pits of the arenas, where the roar of the crowd mingles with the scent of blood and sweat, you emerged as a fighter hardened by the brutal life of a slaved gladiator. Torn from your homeland and stripped of your freedom, you were thrust into a life of violence and survival. Your existence was one of relentless combat, where every match could be your last and every opponent a potential killer.

Yet, amid the chaos and cruelty, you discovered your own strength. The arena became your training ground, honing your skills and tempering your spirit. Each victory was a step toward survival, each cheer from the crowd a fleeting taste of triumph in a life otherwise defined by chains.

Your time as a gladiator has left indelible marks upon you, both physically and mentally. The scars you bear tell tales of battles fought and won, and the glint in your eye speaks of a determination to never again be anyone's pawn. Now, free from your chains, you carry with you the lessons learned in the arena: the fierce will to fight, the cunning to outthink your foes, and an unwavering resolve to reclaim your life.

Whether you seek vengeance against those who enslaved you, strive to free others from bondage, or simply yearn to carve out a new destiny for yourself, your past as a slaved gladiator shapes every step of your journey. The world beyond the arena is vast and fraught with dangers, but you face it with the same unyielding spirit that saw you through your darkest days.

Skill Proficiencies: Athletics, Intimidation

Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set, vehicles (land)

Languages: One of your choice (often the language of your captors)

Equipment: A set of common clothes, a broken shackle, a gaming set of your choice, and a pouch containing 10 gp

Suggested Characteristics

Personality Traits:

1. I face problems head-on. A simple, direct solution is the best path to success.
2. I thrive on the adulation of the crowds and always seek to be the center of attention.
3. I am always calm, no matter the situation. I never raise my voice or let my emotions control me.
4. I have a strong sense of fair play and always try to find the most equitable solution to arguments.

Ideals:

1. Freedom. I fight so that one day I will be free. (Chaotic)
2. Honor. I never fight unfairly and always respect my opponents. (Lawful)
3. Glory. I want my name to be remembered forever. (Any)
4. Survival. I'll do whatever it takes to live another day. (Neutral)

Bonds:

1. I strive to free all who are enslaved, as I once was.
2. I have a beloved friend or family member I must protect at all costs.
3. I will never forget the face of my greatest opponent.
4. My weapon is a symbol of my past life and I will never part with it.

Flaws:

1. I am haunted by memories of the arena and can be triggered by certain sights or sounds.
2. I have a fierce temper and can be provoked into fighting easily.
3. I hold grudges and find it hard to forgive those who wrong me.
4. I have a deep-seated distrust of anyone in a position of power.