"In shadow, we defend the Freeholds and preserve their freedom."
— Shadowmaster Stravi Vyran

Description

As an operative of the Silent Step, you serve as a covert guardian of the Freeholds of Rhonadral. Trained in espionage, infiltration, and subtle diplomacy, you are the unseen force that protects the sovereignty of the Freeholds. Whether dismantling conspiracies, neutralizing threats, or forging covert alliances, you work tirelessly to ensure the coalition's independence.

Silent Step agents excel in stealth and subterfuge, operating autonomously in hostile environments or under the guidance of Spymasters. You are both protector and manipulator, ensuring that no adversary can threaten the ideals of freedom and unity that define the Freeholds.

Attribute Bonuses:

• Dexterity (+2), reflecting your agility and precision.

Trinkets Table

Roll a d8 or choose one:

d8	Trinket
1	A forged letter with mysterious instructions.
2	A black glove that fits perfectly, with an unfamiliar insignia.
3	A small vial of poison labeled in an unfamiliar script.
4	A worn coin with a slash across the face, marking your loyalty.
5	A coded journal that you cannot fully decipher.
6	A pendant containing a lock of hair from a lost ally.
7	A badge engraved with the symbol of the Freeholds.
8	A small mechanical device that emits a faint ticking sound.

Using the Silent Step Background

This background is ideal for Rogues, Rangers, or Monks who excel in espionage, stealth, and high-stakes diplomacy. Silent Step operatives thrive in campaigns focused on political intrigue, covert missions, and the defense of freedom. Whether infiltrating enemy strongholds, uncovering conspiracies, or safeguarding the ideals of the Freeholds, these agents bring precision and cunning to every adventure.

 

Skill Proficiencies:

• Stealth: For navigating unseen during covert missions.
• Investigation: To uncover critical information and analyze intelligence.

Tool Proficiencies:

• Disguise Kit: For crafting false identities and appearances.
• Poisoner’s Kit: For creating or handling toxins to disable or neutralize threats.

Languages:

• Common
• Two additional languages, reflecting the Silent Step’s need for cultural and political infiltration.

Equipment:

• A set of dark, nondescript clothing for blending into the shadows.
• A dagger or short sword.
• A Disguise Kit.
• A small pouch containing 15 gold pieces.
• A trinket tied to your service in the Silent Step (choose or roll from the trinket table).

Suggested Characteristics

d4	Personality Trait
1	"I observe before I act—every situation must be thoroughly assessed before a decision is made."
2	"I prefer to work in silence and avoid unnecessary attention, but when necessary, I will strike with lethal precision."
3	"I trust few, and I’m slow to let anyone in. But once I trust you, I will never betray you."
4	"I am deeply loyal to the Freeholds and the ideals they represent. No one will undermine our freedom—not while I still breathe."

d4	Ideal
1	Freedom: "The Freeholds must never be shackled again. The independence of our people is the most sacred ideal."
2	Secrecy: "In the shadows, we find strength. The less others know of us, the safer our cause."
3	Loyalty: "I serve the Freeholds above all else. Betrayal of my duty is the greatest crime."
4	Justice: "The enemies of the Freeholds must be dealt with swiftly and decisively, but always with fairness and honor."

d4	Bond
1	"I once lost an agent close to me during a mission. Their memory drives me to protect the Freeholds and those I serve."
2	"My mentor in the Silent Step taught me everything I know. I will make them proud by upholding their legacy."
3	"The Silent Step gave me purpose when I had nothing. I owe everything to the agency and to the Freeholds."
4	"I have a score to settle with an enemy agent who betrayed our cause. I will find them, no matter where they hide."

d4	Flaw
1	"I sometimes trust my instincts too much and act without considering all possible consequences."
2	"I am too secretive—sometimes even from those I should trust the most."
3	"The lines between right and wrong blur in my work. I have become too comfortable with morally gray actions."
4	"I carry the guilt of every life I've taken in service to the Freeholds. Some nights, I wonder if the cost is too high."

Contacts

Silent Step Contacts

Your work has forged connections across the Freeholds and beyond:

• A Spymaster who coordinates missions and provides resources.
• A diplomat who aids in covert negotiations or intelligence gathering.
• A smuggler who facilitates your movements across hostile borders.
• A rival operative who respects your skill but competes for recognition.