"In shadows, we ensure the survival of Draeven."
— Shadowmaster Kael Draven

Description

As a Wraith, you are an elite spy of the kingdom of Draeven, trained in the arts of deception, observation, and subterfuge. Your purpose is to protect Draeven's interests by gathering intelligence, influencing political dynamics, and eliminating threats from the shadows. Mastering the art of disguise and manipulation, you navigate the corridors of power and the streets of rival kingdoms with precision and subtlety.

Driven by the motto "Knowledge is Power, and Power is Survival," Wraiths are agents of secrecy and pragmatism, serving as the unseen guardians of Draeven. Whether dismantling conspiracies or shaping events to Draeven's favor, your actions leave an indelible mark on the kingdom'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 forged letter with cryptic instructions.
2	A black cloak clasp engraved with Draeven’s emblem.
3	A memento from your mentor, such as a ring or pendant.
4	A vial of ink that fades after being used to write.
5	A journal containing encrypted notes from a critical mission.
6	A small, featureless mask used during covert operations.
7	A fragment of a banner taken from a rival faction.
8	A coin with an unfamiliar insignia, marking an ally’s loyalty.

Using The Wraith Background

This background is ideal for Rogues, Bards, or Rangers who excel in espionage, intrigue, and deception. Wraiths thrive in campaigns centered on political manipulation, intelligence gathering, and covert missions. Whether infiltrating rival factions, dismantling conspiracies, or shaping the destiny of Draeven, Wraith operatives bring precision and cunning to every adventure.

Skill Proficiencies: Choose two from:

• Deception, Persuasion, or Survival
  Additionally, choose two from:
• Insight, Investigation, Perception, or Stealth

 

Tool Proficiencies: Your specialized training grants proficiency with the following tools:

• Disguise Kit
• Forgery Kit
• Thieves’ Tools

Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common, Common Sign Language, and Thieves’ Cant.

Equipment: You begin with the following equipment:

• A set of Traveler's Clothes
• A set of Commoner's Clothes
• A set of Fine Clothes
• A Disguise Kit
• A Forgery Kit
• A set of Thieves' Tools
• A pouch containing 50 gp

Suggested Characteristics

d8	Personality Trait
1	I prefer to listen and observe rather than speak.
2	I thrive under pressure, keeping a cool head even in dangerous situations.
3	I speak in a calm, measured tone, no matter the circumstances.
4	I take meticulous notes about everything I see and hear.
5	I enjoy playing mind games, subtly testing others' wits and resolve.
6	I maintain multiple identities, switching personas as easily as I change clothes.
7	I have a wry sense of humor, often making sarcastic remarks.
8	I have a habit of disappearing without a word, even among allies.

d6	Ideal
1	Loyalty: My service to Draeven is absolute, and I will protect its secrets at all costs.
2	Secrecy: Knowledge is power, and not all truths should be shared.
3	Freedom: I believe everyone should be free from oppression, even if my methods are questionable.
4	Justice: I expose corruption and betrayal, no matter the personal cost.
5	Pragmatism: The ends justify the means, and survival is the ultimate goal.
6	Independence: I value my freedom to act outside the chain of command.

d6	Bond
1	I owe my survival to my mentor, a veteran Wraith who took me under their wing.
2	My loyalty lies with the people of Draeven, not the crown.
3	A past mission went wrong, and I’m determined to make amends.
4	I keep a memento from my family, reminding me of the life I left behind.
5	The secrets I’ve uncovered weigh heavily on me, but I cannot reveal them.
6	My enemies know my face, and I constantly look over my shoulder.

d6	Flaw
1	I struggle to trust anyone, even my allies.
2	My obsession with secrecy makes it hard to form meaningful connections.
3	I sometimes question my own morality, wondering if the ends truly justify the means.
4	I am haunted by the faces of those I’ve deceived or betrayed.
5	I have a tendency to act alone, avoiding collaboration when possible.
6	My commitment to my mission can lead me to overlook personal risks.

Contacts

Wraith Contacts

Your covert operations have forged connections across Draeven and beyond:

• A handler who assigns missions and provides resources.
• A rival operative who respects your skill but competes for recognition.
• A diplomat who aids in intelligence gathering or covert exchanges.
• A smuggler who facilitates your movement across hostile borders.