"Knowledge is the cornerstone of power; secrecy is its shield."
— Spymaster Theren Veyral

Description

The Veltrion Bureau of Intelligence is the covert protector of the Concord of Veltrion, safeguarding its unity through espionage, subterfuge, and manipulation. As an elite operative, you gather intelligence, neutralize threats, and influence events to maintain the stability of the Concord. Your role is both vital and perilous, requiring precision, secrecy, and unwavering loyalty.

Agents of the VBI are experts in stealth and strategy, operating unnoticed to dismantle rival factions, prevent conspiracies, and maintain political dominance. Whether navigating foreign courts or infiltrating hostile territories, your actions shape the course of the Concord’s future.

Attribute Bonuses:

• Two ability scores of your choice increase by +1.

Trinkets Table

Roll a d8 or choose one:

d8	Trinket
1	A cipher wheel engraved with the Bureau’s emblem.
2	A forged letter with cryptic instructions.
3	A badge bearing the shadowed eye of the Bureau.
4	A small vial of disappearing ink.
5	A journal containing encrypted mission notes.
6	A spyglass inscribed with your mentor’s initials.
7	A mask used during high-profile covert operations.
8	A coin etched with the symbol of a foreign intelligence agency.

Using the Veltrion Bureau of Intelligence Background

This background is ideal for Rogues, Bards, or Warlocks who excel in espionage, intrigue, and deception. VBI agents thrive in campaigns centered on political manipulation, intelligence gathering, and covert operations. Whether dismantling rival factions, safeguarding the Concord’s secrets, or shaping the future of Veltrion, these operatives bring precision and cunning to every adventure.

Skill Proficiencies:

• Insight: To read emotions and uncover hidden motives.
• Investigation: For analyzing intelligence and uncovering secrets.
• Stealth: To remain unseen during covert operations.

Tool Proficiencies:

• Disguise Kit: For crafting false identities and appearances.
• Forgery Kit: To create or identify forged documents.

Languages:

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

Equipment:

• A set of fine clothes.
• A forged document with your cover identity.
• A small spyglass.
• A concealed weapon (e.g., dagger or small firearm).
• A pouch containing 15 gold pieces.

Suggested Characteristics

d4	Personality Trait
1	“I always have an escape plan, no matter how slim the chances are.”
2	“I am a master of reading people’s emotions and intentions. I never speak more than necessary.”
3	“When the mission is complete, I move on. I don't dwell on past relationships or mistakes.”
4	“I work quietly and efficiently, preferring to avoid unnecessary attention, but I’ll do whatever is necessary to protect my home.”

d4	Ideal
1	Loyalty: I am loyal to my homeland above all else, and I will do whatever it takes to protect it, even if it means sacrificing my own safety.
2	Knowledge: Knowledge is power. I value intelligence above all else, believing that information is the key to any conflict.
3	Secrecy: The less others know about the work of the Bureau, the better. I do my best to ensure that the Concord’s operations stay hidden from those who would exploit them.
4	Balance: Sometimes, to achieve peace, one must take drastic actions. I do not shy away from difficult decisions if they are for the greater good.

d4	Bond
1	“I’ve seen too many good agents fall. I carry their memories as a reminder that our work is never easy.”
2	“I owe everything to the Bureau. They gave me purpose, and I would gladly give my life to ensure their success.”
3	“I have a personal vendetta against a former member of the Ironbound Syndicate, the rogue faction that nearly destroyed the Bureau. I will find them.”
4	“I’ve made connections in foreign lands. Some are allies, and some are foes. But my duty remains clear.”

d4	Flaw
1	“I sometimes trust my instincts too much and act before thinking.”
2	“I have a tendency to keep secrets, even from those closest to me, because I’ve learned that trust is fragile.”
3	“My work has cost me friendships, and I find it difficult to connect with others in a personal way.”
4	“I live in constant fear that the Bureau will discover I’ve made a mistake that will lead to my downfall.”

Contacts

VBI Contacts

Your operations have forged connections across Veltrion and beyond:

• A handler who coordinates missions and ensures you have the resources you need.
• A rival agent who respects your skill but competes for recognition.
• A diplomat who aids in intelligence gathering or covert negotiations.
• A smuggler who facilitates your movements across borders.